By Aba Habtu
In the complex landscape of Amhara politics, a troubling trend has emerged: the scapegoating of individuals who could strengthen the Amhara people’s struggle against the Oromo Prosperity Party – led regime. Eskinder Nega and his associates recently briefed key international bodies including the European Union (EU), United States government, the African Union (AU), and IGAD on the dire situation facing the Amhara people, that includes humanitarian situations, the existential threat of the Amhara peoples, and show evidence of state sponsored genocide against innocent Amharas. This event was a crucial opportunity to amplify the Amhara cause on the global stage. However, rather than uniting around this effort, certain factions have launched a disjointed campaign against Eskinder, deepening divisions instead of building solidarity.
After considering the perspectives shared during consultations and the counterarguments from opposing sides, I feel compelled to articulate my views on the reasons behind the backlash, underscore its consequences, and advocate for a unified approach to support the Amhara cause.
The Backlash: A Self-Inflicted Wound
The presentation to the international community was a pivotal moment, yet instead of leveraging it, some factions chose to undermine Eskinder and his team on social media. This internal discord weakens the struggle and shifts attention away from the Amhara people’s legitimate grievances.
A particularly damaging aspect of this division is the role of competing interest groups prioritizing personal or factional power over a united front. Some Fano factions view AFPO’s discussion with international communities as a threat to their leadership ambitions, resorting to rivalry instead of collaboration. In addition, diaspora-based activists have also complicated matters, with some transforming activism into a profitable enterprise. Eskinder’s engagement with international organizations challenges their power dynamics and financial interests, prompting defensive reactions rooted in self-preservation rather than genuine concern for the Amhara cause.
Moreover, the Ethiopian regime has exploited these divisions. Social media operatives have been deployed to manipulate public perception, incite rivalries, and create discord within the Amhara movement. A 2023 BBC report confirmed the existence of such coordinated efforts, highlighting how the regime diverts attention from pressing issues by pitting opposition figures against one another.
Furthermore, elements within the diaspora elite have attempted to assert control over the Amhara movement, prioritizing provincial and factional agendas over a unified and strategic approach. While regional identities are significant, they should not overshadow the collective struggle for Amhara rights and dignity.
The Path Forward: Concrete Solutions
1. Establishing Strategic Goals for Fano
The Amhara struggle cannot afford to remain reactionary. Fano must define clear strategic objectives and implement a structured plan to remove the Abiy Ahmed regime. A struggle without a roadmap is destined for stagnation. A focused strategy would allow the movement to prioritize unity, resilience, and the advancement of Amhara interests.
2. Engaging All Fano Factions in a Technical Working Committee
Eskinder’s organization, AFPO, should take proactive steps to engage all Fano factions through a technical working committee. This platform should be designed not for assimilation but for collaboration assuring that each faction has a meaningful role in shaping a united Amhara resistance.
3. Amhara Elites Must Step Forward
The Amhara people have historically held their elites in high regard. True intellectuals, scholars, and community leaders must take a stand, call out destructive behaviors, and elevate Amhara politics beyond factional disputes and social media theatrics. The community needs guidance from figures who prioritize long-term strategic goals over personal or factional interests.
4. Resisting Conflict Entrepreneurs and Media Manipulation
The Amhara community must become more discerning about the influence of diaspora conflict entrepreneurs, opportunists, and media figures who profit from division. Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube have become battlegrounds for low-grade, divisive politics. The movement must resist these distractions and focus on substantive action.
5. Building Institutional and Strategic Alliances
To move beyond rhetoric, the Amhara struggle needs strong institutions. The lack of structured leadership, clear vetting processes, and a unified command structure has left the movement vulnerable. A well-organized front, supported by strategic alliances with sympathetic forces inside and outside Ethiopia, is crucial for sustaining the fight.
In conclusion, the current divisions within the Amhara movement only serve to weaken the cause. Fano, diaspora activists, and Amhara leaders must prioritize unity over personal ambitions and social media-fueled disputes. By establishing clear strategic goals, fostering collaboration, and resisting external manipulation, the Amhara movement can regain its strength and push forward with a collective vision. The time for infighting is over; the survival of the Amhara people demands complete and unwavering unity.
Editor’s note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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Insightful.
The victory belongs to all who contributed to the resistance effort.
Those fano faction who are not included in the past meeting must now prepare themselves to join in the following sessions. Its futile to simply cry like a spoiled child. MO