By Tewodros Gezhagn
The silencing of Amhara elites through arbitrary detentions reveals the Ethiopian government’s failure to address ethnic grievances inclusively.
The Amhara region of Ethiopia has become a hotspot for conflict and political suppression, marked by the systematic targeting of influential figures—particularly those perceived as “elites.” These individuals, often educated and capable of shaping public opinion, are seen as a threat for their potential to awaken the masses to the realities behind Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s carefully constructed image. Amid escalating war and growing discontent, the Ethiopian government has detained prominent Amhara elites under allegations ranging from political dissent to alleged collaboration with armed groups.
These actions, carried out without transparent legal processes, reflect a broader failure to address the deep-seated ethnic grievances that continue to plague the nation. A simple detainment order is enough to make an Amhara elite disappear, with little to no accountability. Those fortunate enough to be released often do so without explanation, their freedom attributed more to sheer luck or “miracles” than any adherence to the rule of law. Such practices deepen mistrust in the government and highlight the growing repression faced by the Amhara community.
Ethiopia’s ethnic federal system, while designed to grant autonomy and recognize diversity, has often exacerbated divisions and fueled tensions. The Amhara people, historically central to Ethiopia’s identity, increasingly perceive themselves as marginalized within this framework. The government’s approach to addressing Amhara concerns has largely been one of suppression rather than dialogue, with the detention of elites serving as a stark example of this trend. These arrests not only deprive the Amhara community of its leaders but also send a chilling message to others who might advocate for their region’s rights.
The war in the Amhara region has compounded the crisis, with civilians caught in the crossfire and communities suffering from displacement, violence, and resource shortages. Instead of fostering unity to address these challenges, the government has chosen to focus on silencing those it deems a threat. The lack of due process for detained individuals further undermines trust in the justice system and raises serious concerns about human rights violations.
International observers have noted that the detentions may be politically motivated, aimed at weakening the influence of Amhara voices in Ethiopia’s political discourse. This strategy, however, risks deepening divisions and escalating conflict, as marginalized groups become increasingly alienated from the central government. Sustainable peace and stability cannot be achieved by suppressing grievances but rather through inclusive dialogue and genuine efforts to address the root causes of unrest.
The detention of Amhara elites is emblematic of a broader issue in Ethiopia: the inability to reconcile ethnic diversity with national unity. As the country navigates this tumultuous period, the silencing of dissenting voices undermines prospects for a peaceful resolution to its challenges. Addressing the grievances of the Amhara people, alongside those of other ethnic groups, requires a commitment to justice, inclusivity, and respect for human rights. Anything less will only prolong the cycle of conflict and repression that continues to haunt Ethiopia.
If the Ethiopian government truly seeks to restore stability, it must start by releasing those who have been detained without cause—fathers, mothers, scholars, and community leaders who have committed no crime but to speak for justice. Even more troubling, hundreds of scholars and intellectuals who have remained silent on political matters are being arbitrarily detained, their only “crime” being their identity as Amharas or their potential to inspire critical thought. This widespread targeting of the educated and influential not only violates basic human rights but also robs the nation of the minds that could contribute to its recovery and progress.
The government must hold itself accountable for the human rights abuses that have scarred the Amhara people and create a political environment where grievances are addressed with respect and dialogue, not with violence and repression. Without these steps, the divisions tearing Ethiopia apart will only deepen, and any hope for unity and peace will remain a distant dream.
Moreover, the international community, particularly the West, must no longer turn a blind eye to the suffering of the Amhara people. Their silence, whether deliberate or born of indifference, emboldens the oppressors and dims the light of justice. The influence of the West can be a lifeline—its intervention could save not just lives but the futures of countless Amharas who continue to fight for their right to exist with dignity in their own homeland. Ignoring this crisis now will only ensure that Ethiopia’s wounds fester, leaving behind generations of despair.
Editor’s note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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