This comprehensive four-day discussion held by various Oromo community organizations, the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), and the Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC) at Ilili Hotel from February 19 to February 22, 2025, represents a significant effort to address the political, military, and socio-economic crises facing the Oromo people. The resolutions and agreements reached during this meeting reflect a collective commitment to achieving lasting peace, justice, and stability in Oromia. Below is a summary of the key points and their implications:

1. Establishing and Maintaining Peace

• Recognition of Historical Injustices: The delegation acknowledged that the Oromo people have been deprived of justice and freedom since the Nafxanya system, leading to ongoing instability. The OLF and OFC have committed to ending the war in Oromia and establishing sustainable peace.
• Interim Transitional Government: Until democratic elections can be held, an Interim Transitional Government of Oromia will be established, inclusive of all relevant political parties and stakeholders. This government will focus on delivering essential public services and ensuring stability.
• Integration of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA): The OLA will be integrated into the political and administrative framework of the Interim Transitional Government, ensuring its role in maintaining law, order, and territorial integrity.

2. Resolving the Issues of Addis Ababa (Finfinnee) and Oromia’s Borders

• Addis Ababa (Finfinnee): The delegation affirmed that Addis Ababa historically and legally belongs to the Oromo people and should be administered by the Oromia government.
• Reclaiming Oromo Territories: Territories such as Wallo, Dire Dawa, Matakkal, Moyale, and Madda Walabu, which were forcibly separated from Oromia, will be reclaimed through legal and diplomatic means.

3. Strengthening Oromo Unity and Institutional Development

• Revitalization of the Gadaa/Siinqee System: The Gadaa/Siinqee system, as the foundation of Oromo governance and unity, will be studied and revitalized to align with contemporary realities. This system will serve as the governing framework for the Oromo people.

4. Rights of Non-Oromo Nations and Nationalities in Oromia

• Protection of Minority Rights: The OLF and OFC committed to ensuring that all ethnic groups residing in Oromia can live without fear and that their rights are fully protected, drawing on the historical inclusivity of the Gadaa system.

5. Relations Between the Oromia Government and the Federal Government

• Addressing Federal Imbalances: The delegation highlighted the lack of rule of law, underrepresentation of Oromos in federal institutions, and the absence of autonomy in key federal institutions. The OLF and OFC will work to ensure that Oromo rights and interests are respected at the federal level.

Participants in the Joint Assembly

The meeting included a wide range of Oromo organizations and traditional institutions, such as:

• Council of Oromia’s Gadaa Leaders
• Macca and Tulama Association
• Irkoo 1976 (Traditional Council of Elders)
• Yaa’ii Ganyaa Harooreessaa (Siinqee Women’s Council)
• Council of Abbaa Dhugaa (Abbaa Muudaa/Ayyaantuu Institution)
• Wayyooma Anaajinaa (Dirree Sheek Huseen Council)
• Wayyooma Soof Umar (Judiciary Council)
• Nagummaa Dambii (Sayidii Alfaqii Religious Council)
• Oromia National Elders Council
• Academia and University Scholars Council
• Teessoo Magarsaa Badhaasaa (Oromia Synod Council – Pheexiroos Seat)
• Makaana Yesus Church Council of Ethiopia
• Dhugeeffannaa Uumaa (Waaqeffannaa Faith Organization)
• Yuba 1st Council (Human and Civil Rights Advocacy Group)
• Waahilan Waltajjii (Yuba 4th Council)
• Yaa’aa Haaromsa Finfinnee (Addis Ababa Oromo Community Council)

Final Commitment

The OLF and OFC have been entrusted with implementing the agreements reached during the assembly. The participating organizations pledged their full support to ensure the realization of these resolutions.

Signed by:

Delegation of Oromo Community Organizations & Oromo Political Organizations (OLF & OFC)
February 22, 2025 – Finfinnee (Addis Ababa)

Implications and Significance

This meeting marks a pivotal moment in the Oromo struggle for justice, freedom, and self-determination. By addressing critical issues such as peace, governance, territorial integrity, and minority rights, the resolutions aim to create a foundation for lasting stability and prosperity in Oromia. The inclusion of diverse Oromo organizations and traditional institutions underscores the unity and collective determination of the Oromo people to overcome their challenges.

The success of these agreements will depend on the commitment of the OLF, OFC, and the broader Oromo community to work together, as well as the willingness of external stakeholders, including the Ethiopian federal government, to engage constructively with these efforts. If implemented effectively, these resolutions could pave the way for a more inclusive, just, and peaceful future for the Oromo people and all communities in the region.