For Immediate Press Release
Oromo Federalist Congress Announces Historic Unity Agreement and Roadmap for Peace in Oromia

The Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC), alongside the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), Oromo community organizations, religious leaders, elders, and professionals, has concluded a landmark four-day joint conference in Finfinnee (Addis Ababa) to address the escalating political, security, and humanitarian crises in Oromia. The conference, held from February 19–22, 2025, marks a critical step toward unifying Oromo political forces and charting a path to sustainable peace, justice, and self-determination for the Oromo people.

Key Resolutions and Commitments:

1. Restoring Peace and Establishing Inclusive Governance

• The OFC and OLF affirm that the full restoration of the Oromo people’s freedom and rights is essential for lasting peace. They pledge to utilize all available means to ensure peace is restored and maintained in Oromia.
• The OFC and OLF will work to establish an inclusive “Transitional National Unity Government of Oromia” with other major stakeholders to ensure democratic governance, self-determination, and expanded public services until a permanent system is established through a popular mandate.
• The Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), as Oromo freedom fighters, will be entrusted to maintain peace, security, and the boundaries of Oromia. They will be integrated into peacekeeping efforts under the Transitional Government’s authority to enforce law and order, following inclusive political negotiations and settlements.

2.Resolving Boundary and Administrative Disputes

• The conference reaffirmed Finfinnee’s status as the rightful capital of Oromia, directly answerable to the Oromia state. It pledged to legally reclaim all encroached territories through diplomatic and legal channels.

3. Revitalizing Oromo Unity and Traditions

• The ‘Gadaa/Siinqee’ system will serve as the foundation for Oromo political, cultural, and social unity. The OFC and OLF will work to modernize this traditional governance framework through public dialogue and alignment with contemporary needs, establishing a governance structure rooted in Oromo traditions.

4. Rights of the Oromo People and Minority Groups in Oromia

• The conference emphasized the ‘Gadaa’ system’s teachings on coexistence with non-Oromo communities. The OFC and OLF commit to ensuring the rights of all ethnic groups in Oromia are respected without fear or discrimination.

5. Equitable Representation in Ethiopia’s Federal System

• The OFC and OLF demand fair representation for Oromia in all federal institutions, including the judiciary, defense, and federal police, as well as in resource allocation, to reflect the Oromo people’s demographic and historical contributions.
• The OFC and OLF demand the reform of all democratic institutions of the state to ensure their independence, professionalism, and freedom from partisan bias, strengthening democracy and the rule of law.

A Cautious Yet Determined Path Forward
In a statement, OFC leadership emphasized the urgency of the moment: “Our people endure daily violence, economic collapse, and systemic marginalization. While we pursue dialogue with the federal government, we will not disarm our vigilance. Every commitment must be tested against tangible outcomes within defined timelines. Empty promises will no longer suffice.”

The OFC acknowledges potential challenges, including factional disputes and government intransigence, but remains committed to a pragmatic, step-by-step approach. The party urges all Oromo organizations—regardless of their methods of struggle—to prioritize unity and the collective vision of liberation.

Call to Action

• The OFC calls upon all genuine Oromo forces, regardless of their method of struggle, to resolve their political differences and galvanize their unity in rallying behind this initiative to save the nation.
• The OFC appeals to all Ethiopian nations and nationalities, Ethiopia’s democratic forces, and the international community to support this initiative, recognizing that Oromo unity is vital to Ethiopia’s stability.
• The federal and Oromia regional governments are called upon to engage sincerely with these resolutions, as their success is in the best interest of all Ethiopians and the Horn of Africa.

Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC)
February 23, 2025
Finfinnee, Oromia, Ethiopia

This press release outlines a significant step toward addressing the crises in Oromia and fostering unity among Oromo political forces. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive governance, traditional values, and equitable representation while calling for broad support from both domestic and international stakeholders.