Karrayyu Territory, Oromia, Ethiopia — In a powerful display of living tradition, the Michillee Gadaa class of the Karrayyu Oromo people has embarked on a sacred ceremonial migration. The group, having received blessings from the spiritual leader, the Abbaa Bokkuu, has begun its journey from the Ilaalaa area towards the Junfuu Tarree Leedi territory to perform the pivotal Buttaa Qalu ceremony.

This migration marks a critical phase in the intricate eight-year power transfer cycle of the Oromo Gadaa system, an indigenous democratic and social governance structure recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The Gadaa system rotates leadership among generational classes every eight years. For the Karrayyu, this transition involves a profound symbolic act: the outgoing Gadaa group, after governing for six years of its eight-year cycle, must formally hand over the Goobaa or Irreessa—the sacred leadership scepter—to the incoming class. The Buttaa Qalu ritual is the ceremony where this sacred transfer is enacted.

The current journey of the Michillee group is a direct preparation for this transfer. Their migration to the designated ceremonial ground of the incoming Tarree Leedi group is a ritual in itself, signifying the approaching shift in authority and responsibility.

“The Goobaa is far more than a symbol,” explained an elder familiar with the proceedings. “It embodies the continuity of our laws, our peace, and our identity. Handing it over is not just a political act; it is a spiritual covenant between generations to uphold the Gadaa covenant.”

The scepter represents the unbroken chain of Gadaa governance and serves as the primary tool for educating the incoming leadership class. Through rituals and teachings centered on the Goobaa, the outgoing leaders impart the community’s laws, historical knowledge, and ethical codes to their successors, ensuring the precise preservation of the system.

The upcoming Buttaa Qalu ceremony, expected to draw members of the community and observers, will be a culmination of years of preparation. It underscores the resilience of the Gadaa system as a dynamic and practiced form of governance that continues to structure time, leadership, and community life for the Karrayyu Oromo.