By Dhabessa Wakjira

A significant new book documenting the remarkable half-century political journey and struggle of veteran politician Mr. Lencho Leta has officially been launched. Titled “Lencho Leta: Struggle and Life,” the work was unveiled today in a ceremony that was as much a celebration of Oromo culture as it was a literary milestone.

Authored by Zufan Urga, the book is published in both Afaan Oromo and Amharic. It offers readers a deep and expansive analysis of Mr. Lencho Leta’s life—his rises and falls, his decades of political commitment, and the personal and collective sacrifices that defined his path.

A Ceremony Rooted in Ancient Tradition

The launch event was not a typical book signing. It was a powerful homage to Oromo heritage. The ceremony officially opened with a traditional blessing and recognition performed by Abba Gedas (wise elders) and Haadha Siinqee (women leaders holding the symbolic Siinqee staff), keepers of the Oromo’s ancient Gadaa system. Their presence grounded the event in values of justice, wisdom, and community—principles that have guided Lencho Leta’s own life of service.

From the outset, it was clear that this was not merely the launch of a book. It was the honoring of a living struggle.

A Panel of Witnesses

Following the official unveiling, a thought-provoking panel discussion was held, focusing on Mr. Lencho Leta’s long years of political struggle. The panel brought together notable figures—some who fought alongside him, others who have been shaped by his example. They reflected on his resilience, his consistency, and the price he paid for standing by his convictions.

The discussions moved beyond biography. They explored what Lencho Leta’s journey means for the present generation of Oromo and Ethiopian political actors, and what lessons his life offers for the future.

Dignitaries, Artists, and Family Gather

The event drew a distinguished audience. Senior government officials, celebrated authors, artists, and intellectuals were in attendance. But perhaps most moving were the presence of Mr. Lencho Leta’s former comrades in struggle—men and women who shared the difficult roads and dark nights of political opposition. Family members and specially invited guests filled the hall, creating an atmosphere of both celebration and reflection.

More Than a Man, More Than a Book

“Lencho Leta: Struggle and Life” is not a hagiography. By all accounts, it is a measured, detailed account of a life lived in the trenches of Ethiopian and Oromo politics. It seeks to document, to teach, and to preserve a memory that might otherwise fade.

For the Oromo people and for all Ethiopians who value political courage, the book arrives at a critical moment—when remembering the past is essential to navigating the future.

As the Abba Gadaa and Haadha Siinqee opened the ceremony with their ancient blessings, they reminded everyone present: a people who do not honor their strugglers are a people without a compass.

Today, through Zufan Urga’s words, Lencho Leta’s compass points forward.

Reported by Dhabessa Wakjira, based on the launch event of “Lencho Leta: Struggle and Life.”