The Great Replacement in Addis Ababa: Ethnic Cleansing in Plain Sight 

By Aba Habtu 

In recent years, Ethiopia has emerged as a focal point of distressing regional and global discussions  regarding state-sanctioned terror unleashed on its own people. However, one concept that remains  alarmingly omitted from these conversations is the narrative of ethnic cleansing, demographic  reengineering, and displacement taking place in its capital, Addis Ababa. This systemic crisis is deeply  intertwined with the political ambitions of the Oromo political establishment and resonates palpably  with the concept of the “Great Replacement,” wherein historical narratives, urban redevelopment, and  the systematic displacement of residents converge to dramatically alter a city’s historical and  demographic landscape. 

At the heart of this issue is a deeply entrenched narrative propagated by the Oromo political  establishment which asserts an imagined past—one characterized as an ancient, culturally rich state of  Oromia, allegedly seized by Amhara forces during the formation of modern Ethiopia. Despite a glaring  lack of credible historical, archaeological, or demographic evidence supporting this assertion, it has  become a cornerstone of Oromo political ideology. It serves as a justification for a broader campaign  aimed at reclaiming Addis Ababa and, consequently, altering its demographic fabric. 

Over the past three decades, and particularly in the last six years, the ambitions of the Oromo elite have  manifested in a series of urban policies and redevelopment initiatives ostensibly designed to modernize  the city. However, these initiatives actively marginalize the city’s diverse population, particularly the  Amhara community. What masquerades as urban development often conceals a more insidious agenda:  the systematic dismantling of historic neighborhoods that have been integral to Addis Ababa’s cultural  heritage for centuries. In place of these cherished communities, skyscrapers are rising, designed for the  use of select Oromo officials and elites, while thousands of long-standing residents—predominantly  Amhara—face forced displacement. 

The demolition of neighborhoods signifies more than mere physical relocation; it represents a calculated  attempt to erase historical narratives that contradict the prevailing claims of Oromo indigeneity in the  urban center. Each episode of urban transformation is not merely an economic maneuver but also part  of a broader political strategy aimed at undermining the social bonds that unify various ethnic groups  within Ethiopia. Historical landmarks and communities are being replaced by developments that echo  the political interests of a singular ethnic narrative, which frames the Amhara as undesirable inhabitants  of the capital. 

Furthermore, this power play extends beyond mere political narratives; control over significant economic  sectors—including state-owned giants like Ethiopian Airlines and the Grand Commercial Bank of  Ethiopia—has concentrated disproportionately in the hands of Oromo officials. This entrenchment  perpetuates the ideology of “Oromummaa,” which prioritizes Oromo interests above those of other  ethnicities. Through manipulation of economic opportunities and discriminatory policies, the regime  systematically marginalizes others, creating a socio-economic environment fraught with inequity. 

As these developments unfold, the silence of the international community remains disconcerting. By  endorsing the Ethiopian government’s purported redevelopment projects, global actors risk complicity in  what can be aptly termed the ethnic cleansing of the Amhara from Addis Ababa. In this context, the  support of organizations such as the IMF and the World Bank for a regime engaged in such heinous acts  raises serious ethical concerns. These institutions must reassess their strategies and involvement in  Ethiopia’s affairs.

The crisis now extends beyond Ethiopian borders; it represents a significant human rights issue that  requires immediate attention from international stakeholders. If left unchecked, the ramifications of  these actions could culminate in a political and humanitarian crisis of monumental proportions, as  increasingly radical policies from Oromo elites threaten the stability of a nation home to approximately  130 million people. 

It is essential to recognize that the Amhara’s struggle for political power is not a quest for ethnic  supremacy but rather an effort to reclaim a shared future for all Ethiopians in the face of a regime bent  on dismantling the country’s historical and cultural identity. The political battle playing out in Arat Kilo— the heart of Ethiopian governance—underscores the imperative of nurturing Ethiopia’s multifaceted  identity. 

For the future of Ethiopia and its diverse communities, the world must not remain a passive observer.  Vigorous support for the resisting forces and decisive action are imperative to avert the horrifying  consequences of unchecked ethnic fascism. Addis Ababa—a city symbolic of resilience and diversity— deserves better than becoming the backdrop for silent ethnic cleansing, a grim reality that urgently  demands global acknowledgment and intervention.

Editor’s note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com

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