In recent years, Ethiopia has witnessed the revival of a disturbing movement—an attempt to restore the oppressive legacy of the Solomonic dynasty under the banner of Amhara nationalism. This modern iteration, often referred to as the Neo-Menelik Movement, seeks to rewrite history and return to a centralized, monarchy-inspired rule where Amhara elites dominate, sidelining the rights and voices of other nationalities.
Historically, Menelik II, crowned under the myth of Solomonic descent, expanded his empire through brutal force. Millions of Tigreans, Oromos, and southern peoples were subjugated in the name of “unification.” Oromos—the largest ethnic group—along with others, were subjected to forced assimilation, land seizure, and cultural erasure. Menelik’s campaigns were not acts of unity but of conquest. These injustices sparked resistance movements that have lasted generations.
It wasn’t until the 1974 revolution, led by the oppressed and impoverished youth of the south, that the Solomonic dynasty came to an end. Emperor Haile Selassie, the last king in this dynasty, was overthrown. This was a pivotal moment—not only for the dismantling of feudal rule but also for a long-awaited promise of equality among Ethiopia’s many nations.
However, true freedom was still elusive. While the monarchy fell, the post-imperial Ethiopia struggled to define its political future. The eventual rise of a federal system gave partial recognition to ethnic autonomy, particularly benefiting Oromos, Tigreans, and other historically marginalized communities. This system, however flawed, allowed for cultural, linguistic, and regional self-rule—an essential step toward a more democratic Ethiopia.
Yet, not everyone accepted this change. A segment of the Amhara elite—especially conservative intellectuals and some members of the clergy—never abandoned their nostalgia for the “glory days” of imperial rule. Today, these forces rally behind groups like Fanno, a militant nationalist organization openly advocating for the return of centralized, Amhara-dominated rule. They aim to dismantle the federal system, disregarding the sacrifices made by millions for basic rights and self-determination.
What’s most perplexing is the emerging alliance between some Tigrean actors and these very forces. Historically, Tigreans were among the first victims of Menelik’s imperial conquest. They bore the weight of oppression and were at the forefront of the fight for federalism. So why are some now forming a partnership with Amhara extremists and even collaborating with the autocratic regime in Eritrea?
This alliance is not only ideologically inconsistent—it is self-destructive. Tigreans have suffered greatly from imperial ambitions and centralized rule. To now align with those who seek to restore that system is a betrayal of the very cause for which so many Tigrean youth sacrificed their lives. Even more disturbing is the fact that this partnership includes Eritrea—a state that has not held an election or established any democratic institution in over 35 years. Eritrea is a dictatorship on the brink of collapse—not a viable ally.
Amhara and Tigrean groups continue to dispute their shared borders. Their ideological foundations are in direct conflict: while Fanno dreams of restoring a monarchy-style centralized rule, many Tigreans still aspire toward autonomy and federalism. This so-called alliance is not based on shared vision, but on short-term military goals—goals that risk plunging Ethiopia into further chaos.
Meanwhile, the Oromo and other southern nations remain committed to a democratic Ethiopia—one built on unity through diversity, not domination through conquest. The path forward is not through reviving the ghosts of imperialism but by strengthening inclusive governance, respect for self-rule, and peace among all communities.
It is time for the Tigrean leadership—and the people themselves—to reflect deeply. Is an alliance with Fanno and Eritrea worth losing the freedoms earned through decades of struggle? Is it worth sacrificing the dream of a just, federal Ethiopia?
History has already shown us that the Solomonic dynasty brought pain, not progress. Attempting to revive it—whether directly or through proxy—will only lead to disaster. Let us not exchange the blood of our youth for a past that was never just. Let us instead fight for a future that belongs to all Ethiopians.
A Call to All Nations and Leaders
I plead with Ethiopian and Eritrean elders, community leaders, and religious leaders to raise their voices against the call for war. Let them guide our communities away from destruction and back toward dialogue and peace. Our region has already lost thousands of young lives—lives that could have helped lift us from generations of poverty, disease, and malnutrition.
I call upon the Oromo, Somali, Sidama, Afar, and all other southern nations—and especially the Tigrean people who still believe in democracy and federalism—to stand together against this misguided vision of the Neo-Menelik movement and its armed representatives.
Let us stand by the current Ethiopian government, which, despite its challenges, is working to unite the country through inclusion, mutual respect, love, and forgiveness. Ethiopia’s future lies not in division or domination, but in shared progress.
To the war-drum-beating groups—Fanno, Tigrean hardliners, and the Eritrean regime—we say this: abstain from war. It is not too late to choose peace. The pursuit of outdated dreams and revenge-driven conflict will not bring freedom, only more graves and grief.
History has already shown us that the Solomonic dynasty brought pain, not progress. Attempting to revive it—whether directly or through proxy—will only lead to disaster. Let us not exchange the blood of our youth for a past that was never just. Let us instead fight for a future that belongs to all Ethiopians—one built on equality, federalism, and peace.
Odaa Gadaa- A Lover of PEace and Fredom.
