By M. G. Selassie*
Prominent Ethiopian activist, journalist, and FANO leader Eskinder Nega has issued a powerful public appeal calling for an end to Ethiopia’s long-standing ethnic-based system of governance, urging both national actors and the international community to rally behind a transition toward a civic, democratic political order.
In his statement, Eskinder argued that Ethiopia’s persistent crises—widespread displacement, conflict, mass arrests, and deepening mistrust—are rooted in a political framework built on ethnic identity. According to him, only a citizenship-based system can guarantee equality, stability, and basic human rights for all Ethiopians.
“Ethiopia’s crises—from displacement to conflict—are symptoms of a broken political framework rooted in ethnic rule. Ethiopia must move beyond ethnic divisions and embrace a citizenship-based system that guarantees equal rights and security for all.”
Eskinder stressed that under the current ethnic federal arrangement, millions of Ethiopians continue to face discrimination and insecurity based on ethnicity, language, and religion—conditions he described as incompatible with a modern, democratic state.
“Ethnic Federalism Has Failed”
In one of his strongest critiques yet, Eskinder declared that Ethiopia’s ethnic-based political order has deepened polarization and fragmentation, pushing communities further apart rather than building a cohesive nation.
“Ethnic federalism has failed to deliver peace or justice; instead, it has created repeated cycles of violence and exclusion. The Amhara cause reflects a broader national demand: Ethiopians reject being governed by an ethnic framework. We demand equality as citizens—not subjects of identity politics.”
He added that the crises facing the Amhara population—including displacement, targeted violence, and political marginalization—are part of a much larger national issue embedded in Ethiopia’s identity-based governance.
Amhara Grievances as a National Mirror
While the Amhara community’s suffering has drawn particular attention in recent years, Eskinder emphasized that the core problem spans every region and ethnicity.
“The Amhara people’s call is a call for equal citizenship. It is not a quest for dominance or separation. It is a demand for dignity, safety, and fair political representation within a united Ethiopia.”
He described FANO, a decentralized Amhara self-defense and civic movement, as fundamentally protective and community-driven, yet rooted in a national vision for inclusive reform.
“FANO stands for the protection of civilians and the rights of the Amhara community, but our vision is national. Ending ethnic rule is the only path toward lasting peace, democratic reform, and stability for all Ethiopians.”
A Call for Inclusive National Dialogue
Eskinder urged Ethiopia’s political actors, community leaders, and civil society to come together for a new national dialogue anchored in shared citizenship rather than identity.
“Our goal is simple: an Ethiopia where no one’s rights depend on ethnicity; an Ethiopia governed by the rule of law, not identity politics. This is not only an Amhara demand—it is Ethiopia’s future.”
He warned that without an inclusive political transition, Ethiopia risks further polarization, instability, and prolonged humanitarian suffering.
Appeal to International Partners
Against the backdrop of growing concern from global human-rights groups, Eskinder called on diplomatic actors, multilateral institutions, and international NGOs to help Ethiopia navigate a peaceful transition.
“Ethiopia needs support to transition from division to unity. The international community must stand with all Ethiopians seeking equal rights and democratic governance.”
He underscored that Ethiopia’s future stability depends on a governance model that protects all citizens equally, irrespective of identity—a shift he believes the international community should actively encourage.
Who Is Eskinder Nega?
Eskinder Nega is an award-winning Ethiopian journalist, pro-democracy advocate, and one of the leading figures within the FANO movement. Known for his uncompromising commitment to human rights and political reform, he has spent years in jail for his activism and writings. Today, he remains one of the most influential voices advocating for a civic, democratic Ethiopia built on equal citizenship and the rule of law.
*Ethiopian Diaspora Advocacy Team, email: mglobalc@gmail.com
