Take it or leave it: There is only one way to Democracy
Fetsum Abraham//5/14/2013 I first want to encourage the opposition forces to continue the resistance, yet I respect and thank them all for hanging on this far individually or in group. As we all know, our opposition forces
Fetsum Abraham//5/14/2013
I first want to encourage the opposition forces to continue the resistance, yet I respect and thank them all for hanging on this far individually or in group.
As we all know, our opposition forces (parties And CIVIC organizations) were doing their activities without a threat from the independent minded pro-democracy forces in Diaspora. They took so much time to unite and yet, they are still apart certainly for obvious reasons. As the tide of the movement turns in favor of people looking for democracy in Eritrea, the comfort zone of the scattered opposition forces aiming at undemocratically controlling political power appears to be in serious problem with all respect to whoever is affected by this assumption.
First, you do not form a political party and refuse to unite with other political parties unless you want to lead without a democratic process. You do not form a youth organization and refuse to unite with others alike unless you aim at political power in post-Afwerki Eritrea without election. Once we agree on transitional government as the only process by which democracy comes to Eritrea, the rest boils down to how genuine and practical the party and organizational leaders are in this respect. There is no other litmus test for genuine democratic spirit than forming a united front and joining it: Something is wrong otherwise and we will fight back to save the future of Eritrea from power mongering individuals that would not hesitate to dictate forever like that guy in Asmara.
If democracy means tolerance to opinion differences and if a transitional government requires unconditional unity of all opposition forces, can the staggering division of our forces and youth imply breaching the concept of democracy? What else then: The answer is positive and this is what Eritreans in Diaspora must be clear on and pressurize their leaders for unconditional unity before another surprise takes place in Eritrea. By then of course the nation will be useless all together because it is already at the bottom of the list in everything. Eritrea cannot afford another dictatorship in its current situation where it lags its neighbors in education, stability, exodus, human rights, etc. without becoming an easy prey of enemies and disintegrating because of civil war.
With intentionally broken family structure that went on for two decades and a systematically gutted out urban youth of the country leaving behind a well indoctrinated and uneducated peasant army only capable of protecting the regime, our country can neither protect itself from its enemies not can our people react to any adversities. Any mistake the resistance may undergo can cause a serious problem to the desperate society that has become a victim of power thirsty leaders all over the place. The society is today sandwiched between the destructive forces of dictatorship at home and some selfish leaders of the opposition forces who resist working under a united front. Responsibility lies on every Eritrean to do the right thing before the Afwerki regime completely collapses. Should the regime fall before the resistance unites chances are Eritreans will continue to suffer and abandon their country in mass probably with greater magnitude than ever before. The disgust and hopelessness will worsen and nationalism will further lose its essence putting the society in critical situation.
Seemingly, there are many Eritreans today silently watching the drama from distance. The excuse is, “the hopeless opposition forces” and I think it makes sense to some extent.
What is interesting in the flip of the coin is that some individuals working under organizations are not comfortable to hear UNITY and yet trying to spot a common ground that makes them work together outside FORMIG A TRANSITIONAL GOVERNMENT in Eritrea. This is having the cake and eating it too. What other common ground do we have other than this? How can the forces complain of lacking mass support when they are the main cause of the problem? Why should an Eritrean support individual forces that resist going through a transitional government to take power in the country? At the bottom line, there is no priority and a common ground for UNITY other than FORMING A TRANSIONAL GOVERNMENT and any one having a problem with this must be grilled to answer why and even rejected outright?
Please pay attention to how many parties and youth organization claiming for democracy we have around when in reality, the concept of democracy is a constant phenomenon that does not change forever. There is no other form of democracy except democracy itself, nor is there another form of justice other than justice itself. There is no ethnic or religious nor is there African or Caucasians democracy and justice, but only democracy and justice. Any religiously or ethnically affiliated organization cannot bring democracy and cannot rescue the people that it claims to represent. It rather uses them to control political power at the expense of their lives and destiny at large. A self nominated leader that concentrates on religion or ethnicity to solve the problems of a diversified society like ours is using his community as means of controlling power without representing its most fundamental issues, and will go as far as destroying everything including the community in question for power.
This is easy to prove: Can a MOSLEM or a CHRISTIAN organization make it without destroying the other? Can an ethnic based organization make it without antagonizing others in the society? A so-called leader as such is a bandit or a thug that does not care about his own community at all beyond using its sacrifice as a stepping ground to take power by force. Such a terrorist force is tuned to first destroy its own community for greed. Democratic forces must reject such enemies before they mushroom into a full-fledged force that can threaten our society.
In the flip of the coin, any organizational leader insisting on bringing democracy separate from others is a good an enemy as the menace two in the previous paragraph. I would ask a simple question if I were a member of an organization: what is the difference between your concept of democracy and others’ for me to follow you? Are you for transitional government or what? If the first, then why are you resisting unity? If the second, then what do you want?
In conclusion, the concept of democracy demands its practical application in any circumstance. One has to first liberate the self before liberating others and any ethnic or religious oriented self-appointed leader does not have a liberated mind to liberate anything. So is any leader that resists a united front: he is not free himself to free others…PERIOD. Any organization against unity is a potential dictator as greedy and destructive as the system in Asmara. And any individual that buys the BS of such leaders is a potential slave ready to serve the master at the expense of society. TRANSITIONAL GOVERNMENT requires unconditional unity and let us please work hard to unite the forces as the main goal of the resistance. Do not accept any excuse against unity: this is not the time for Eritreans to separate and any organization claiming to bring about a better democracy in Eritrea is simply cheating. It therefore is the responsibility of every Eritrean to understand the consequence of recklessness in this issue and stand for a united front as strong as possible before it is too late.
I remind the Diaspora should request UNCONDITIONAL UNITY of all forces for TRANTIONAL GOVERNMENT in Eritrea during the Independence Day festivities as the priority of the struggle for DEMOCRACY. There is no freedom without this and it is not worth struggling for another opportunist to dictate without UNITY!! Happy Independence Day!
ማሊሻ May 14, 2013
With out any shame, Mr. Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Eritrea said during The United Nations High-Level Meeting on the Appraisal of the Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons on May 13, 2013:
“Eritrea is strongly committed to fight human trafficking nationally, regionally and globally. It has undertaken concrete measures to prevent this crime from happening and mitigating its impact on victims.”
Mr ambassador needs to see just this video clip from Africa:
ኣየወ መጕሃይቲ ጎርቤትን ኣፍሪካን ኴና ፣ ኣብ ምሉእ መፈጠርና ከምዚ ሎሚ ሓሲርና ዘይንፈልጥ።
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=AxCpIyUBGnc
ኣምሓራ ክምስሉ እንታይ ይብሉ፤
ሚሉሽን በሰማሽ ፣ ገበያ ባልወጣሽ ።
ከምዝመስለኒ፤
ዝብሉኺ ተት ሰምዕዮ ፤ ንዕዳጋ ኣይምኸድክዮ ።
wedi seb May 14, 2013
Have you ever noticed that major contributors in any Eritrean web sites, be pro or against that guy in Asmara,tend to come in two types? They are either imprudent buffoons whose ludicrous articles and injudicious decisions are often the result of rush or witless thinking, or they are clever thinkers who demonstrate politic discernment with a keen, perceptive ideas on Eritrean issues just like Fetsum Abraham. No one can be trained to be like you Mr.Fetsum Abraham but I can assure you that I am trying. Thank you for siding with the people of Eritrea no matter how sh##ty we are to be taken care of..
Petros Haile May 14, 2013
Dear Fistum,
With all honesty, I don’t understand what the entire article is all about … and please elaborate what “Unconditional Unity” means to you and to the readers as well, until you do, I will suggest for you to watch the following video on Al-jezeera, May 11, 2013 … On the interview with Moaz Al- Khatib, the head of the Transitional Syrian opposition forces, who just resigned after serving for six month … hope you will find it informational …
“I have become only a means to sign some papers while there are hands from different parties involved who want to decide on behalf of the Syrians.” (moaz Al-Khatib)
Moaz al-Khatib
Hawka Petros,
A.A Yassin May 14, 2013
A gift to Petros Haile from Moaz Al-Khatib:
Video Shows Syrian Rebel Eating Organs on Battlefield (http://www.slate.com/)
wedi seb May 14, 2013
you’re allover like cum
Adhanom May 15, 2013
Dear Petros,
I think the article is very clear and instructive if we are able to read slowly and carefully, but skimming may not give us deeper understanding what the writer wants to deliver message. What I usually appreciate about the approach of Festum is that he does not want to give a false appraisal for any side that may lead to wrong decision making; his articles are usually produced with a sense of academic sound intended to enlighten the common people to understand the development and trend of their national politics.
On my side, the core message of his article is explicit as crystal shell: We cannot be DEMOCRATS if we are not democratic in action, because true democracy is not a word or a normal codification. Even the ruling party in Eritrea, PFDJ has enshrined the concept of democracy calling his party People’s Front for DEMOCRACY and Justice, but in practice they are not democratic front.
Mr. Festum insisted: What is our prior national agenda? Is it uniting our efforts, minds and resources to save the nation removing the autocratic regime? Or factorizing the meager human and materials resources into sub national issues prioritizing the interest of a particular groups occupied by region,religion and ethnic tendencies?
If our opposition groups understand incubation of political parties is a sign of democracy, I only advice them to read the experiences of the practiced ethnic or religious based democracies.
We must respect the ethnic, cultural and religious diversity of Eritrea; and the future democratic and constitutional Eritrea must protect their rights. However, if we want to reach that level, what can we do? Struggling with UNITY OR FRAGMENTATION?
Do the political strategies and agenda that the opposition parties have used bring change; and do they save our nation and our people? If the existing strategies are not working, what manners do you, Mr. Petros, think workable for Eritrea to speed up the process of liberation?
Political,attitudinal,conceptual and philosophical differences are natural, and can be used systematically to develop a strong organization and pattern to liberate our country and to democratize our institutions.
We can be normally united by our common national problems that affect each Eritrean family to remove the autocratic regime and involve in peaceful transition. Then if you have well documented and researched religious, ethnic and regional problems/ discrimination/ oppression, you have to present them to the new democratic and constitutional government in more respectable, faithful, sincere and legal way.
Otherwise, we shall be remained battling each other with sub national issues before we face the outlaw regime in our country.
I do believe that UNITY IS POWER FOR SWIFT CHANGE destroying division, hatred, envy, mistrust and conspiracy among ourselves.
MAY GOD BLESS OUR NOBLE FATHER AND TEACHER MR.FESTUM!!
Adhanom
Petros Haile May 15, 2013
Mr. Festum insisted: What is our prior national agenda? Is it uniting our efforts, minds and resources to save the nation removing the autocratic regime? Or factorizing the meager human and materials resources into sub national issues prioritizing the interest of a particular groups occupied by region,religion and ethnic tendencies? ( Adhanom,)
The problem is not these ethnic or religious sentiments should not be there to begin with, in fact, it is their right to demand their self determination, However, the problem lies on the strategy they choose to attain their goals, and the dependent status they are in … I am not questioning their love to their country to be exactly alike to that of other major ethnic or religious groups in Eritrea, and it should not reduce their legitimate demand as a sub national groups or any other labels, that often characterized by the PFDJ thugs, and It is shocking to here similar point of view from the opposition camps . My problem is for these ethnic or religious groups to resolve their legitimate demand through various faction based armed struggle , that is where I see the danger … that is why I repeatedly mention the experience of other countries, such us Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan and the latest being Syria … The second reservation I have is Ethiopia’s heavy involvement in the arming, and to a degree directing the harbored movements in all sorts of ways, … given the level of interference from both governments, including arming the ideological based or sectarian based resistance groups that will eventually duplicate the same out comes we have witnessed in the above mentioned countries … Turf based politics, a state with in a state, and endless civil war, … I hope you understand the clear distinction from what Fistum’s preaching of s”Sham and unconditional unity” to that of my principled position of legitimate demands of ethnic & religious groups, and the unity that emanates through the respect of such groups and ideological forces as well …
If our opposition groups understand incubation of political parties is a sign of democracy, I only advice them to read the experiences of the practiced ethnic or religious based democracies. (Adhanom)
So, what are you going to do about the many factions already exist in the opposition camps , I believe your choices are simple, either you tell them from now don’t organize yourself on the basis of your ethnic or religious affiliations, or else what ? Do you realize pretty much the Ethiopian based opposition groups are dominated by such groups you plan to count out ? or even better, you would suggest as Brother Fistums’s indirect proposal “Unconditional Unity” or the formation of “Transitional Government” …. How could you be able to unite with the forces, or suggest to form a transitional government -that you don’t recognize their fundamental and legitimate rights to organize on the basis of their sectarian interest ? Alougth It is advisable to warn the sectarian movements to take the correct path to democracy and encourage them to reconcile their differences in a principled ways, but to count their venue to self respect and honor, and yet calling them to be part of your grand strategy of “Unconditional Unity” is a farce at best, and impossible to implement …
We must respect the ethnic, cultural and religious diversity of Eritrea; and the future democratic and constitutional Eritrea must protect their rights. However, if we want to reach that level, what can we do? Struggling with UNITY OR FRAGMENTATION? (Adhanom)
Your priority is messed up, these ethnic and religious groups are demanding, and you are telling us the future constitution will guarantee their rights ? That is not only condescending to these movements but very unrealistic, This kind of short sited political behavior will not take you any where …
Do the political strategies and agenda that the opposition parties have used bring change; and do they save our nation and our people? If the existing strategies are not working, what manners do you, Mr. Petros, think workable for Eritrea to speed up the process of liberation? (Adhanom)
This is a sensible question, at least you are coming out of your box … Again, the previous conferences held in Ethiopia has not produced the desired results, partly, due to the controlled and managed of the few organizers who were close affiliates to the Woyane cliques, and that is why you see many policies and political declarations that are very similar to that of the Ethiopian government positions, including the Ethnic Federalism position taken by EDA, … don’t take me wrong I am not opposing the idea of Ethnic Federalism, I just want to show you the controlling and managing aspect of the host nation, not to mention the arming the insurgents to launch an attack , As Fistum often talks about the emerging Somali government and the potential for democratic rule, although they still have a long way to go , … but I think, we can learn a lot from them, from the relative democracy and transitional government in Somalia … It came about when various factions aggressively participated in challenging every aspect of Somali’s political power and social order … It involved from the regional warlords, religious based groups, to that of the concerted effort of regional and international power brokers … In fact Ethiopia wised up after so many attempted & failed occupation, often unilaterally, to push for regional and international forces to involve in the Somalian affairs, including the many attempts of conferences held in Ethiopia and Kenya … Mainly these two nations proved to be dis-honest brokers to be allowed to mediate on internal Somalian affairs … finally, Djibouti was chosen to be a half way decent, and best situated place to form the transitional government in exile … Once this transitional government was formed, and the question of the national army was entertained, and as the regional and international organizational mandate allows it, the Somalian army was on the making, with the help of Uganda, Burundi and on occasion Ethiopia …. As you can see where I am going on this one, not necessary a carbon copy, but similar approach can be applied on Eritrean case, but again this is just a suggestion, it can be elaborated and may even be totally different proposal drafted by our intellectuals and experts …
As the other two issues concerning differences, I believe, I have answered them above …
“MAY GOD BLESS OUR NOBLE FATHER AND TEACHER MR.FESTUM!!”
This slogan, makes you look stupid ….
Adhanom May 16, 2013
Dear Petros,
I would like to thank you for the detailed information you have provided us to see Festum’s article in critical eyes, but I am still dissatisfied with the way you have mentioned to climb the ladder for practical and healthy change in Eritrea.
“The problem is not these ethnic or religious sentiments should not be there to begin with, in fact, it is their right to demand their self determination, However, the problem lies on the strategy they choose to attain their goals, and the dependent status they are in”. (Petros)
In set out, we need to do an intensive, credible and objective research to find out whether there is a particular ethnic or religious or regional oppression or degradation in our country. Unless we identify our problems, we cannot get a true solution to heal our pain. I am always worried when I see certain “egoist” and “narrow” political elites who promote sectarianism on the basis of ethnicity, region or religion among the ordinary people to get a space in political rooms. History confirms that this kind of sentiment or approach was/is destructive rather than constructive. In fact this can be best justified by the history of armed struggle, and the existing post independence political development which has produced nothing except hatred, mistrust, tension and division. Mr. Petros I am not sure what kind of profession you have, but it is immature to talk about what system Eritrea needs to pursue- self-determination, ethnic federalism, federation, confederation, unity within diversity, tight unity etc. Let us leave, this issues to experts and professionals to design what best fit for the interest of the Eritrean people. It is not the real time to entertain with different models of political governance that can be developed through time determined by level of economy, political maturity, technological advancement, educational distribution, social cohesion, and enhancement of justice system. If you really feel the pain, it is the time to save our people and to save our nation urgently. Think what urgent action can be taken to save those our fellow citizens are suffering in jail and perishing in desert and sea. During emergency, you do not need to play with optimization of policy or decision making, because we are sitting at edge of the blade. But, it may not be painful for those in diaspora making themselves busy either hoarding money or advancing in education.
“So, what are you going to do about the many factions already exist in the opposition camps , I believe your choices are simple, either you tell them from now don’t organize yourself on the basis of your ethnic or religious affiliations, or else what ? Do you realize pretty much the Ethiopian based opposition groups are dominated by such groups you plan to count out ? or even better, you would suggest as Brother Fistums’s indirect proposal “Unconditional Unity” or the formation of “Transitional Government” …. How could you be able to unite with the forces, or suggest to form a transitional government -that you don’t recognize their fundamental and legitimate rights to organize on the basis of their sectarian interest ? Alougth It is advisable to warn the sectarian movements to take the correct path to democracy and encourage them to reconcile their differences in a principled ways, but to count their venue to self respect and honor, and yet calling them to be part of your grand strategy of “Unconditional Unity” is a farce at best, and impossible to implement …(Petros)
I do understand we have bad and destructive government in Eritrea; and our people know it, feel it and sense it, because they are part of the problem; but majority disrespect the worse political strategy of the opposition parties. For the last 10 years, they failed to click the heart and mind of the people. And the solution is clear: Please learn what our people need. Don’t drive the truck of politics with your own ego and ambition. Do you think that PIA or his apparatus are strong enough to exist in power? NO! The problem is you and me have wrong political strategy to defeat the defeated regime. My point is clear: we have a national problem; we need to address at national level. This means that the dissected political parties should work together to remove the despotic government in order to turn the country to democracy and justice. Otherwise, the divergent political bodies do not bring any change rather it complicated the political situation of the country, and elongated the life span of the regime.
“As you can see where I am going on this one, not necessary a carbon copy, but similar approach can be applied on Eritrean case, but again this is just a suggestion, it can be elaborated and may even be totally different proposal drafted by our intellectuals and experts …” (Petros)
In spite of the fact that I appreciate your political optimism, you need to be more practical and realistic with ongoing situation in Eritrea. We have passed through painful past history more catalyzed by ethnic, religious and regional parochialism. Whether by elements of coercion or persuasion, Eritrea plays a great role to minimize sectarian politics as the system is not in favor of any particularities or side. Which ethnic group; or which religious institution; or which region is benefited from the existing system? No one. Nonetheless, those cheap and weak political elites are buying legitimacy in the name of ethnicity, religion and region. On my side, no matter to what extent you give them credit, we know how many members that each political group has. I feel sorry for them, and I advise to revise their agenda.
“MAY GOD BLESS OUR NOBLE FATHER AND TEACHER MR.FESTUM!!”
This slogan, makes you look stupid ….(Petros)
What I am astonished about you, Mr.Petros, you have been talking about individual or ethnic rights that expands up to self-determination; and acting more democratic in your aspiration, and gentle in your appearance, but at the end of the day I found you that you are MORE ARTIFICIAL, because you violate my personal right is just to appreciate an individual person; and not only me, even this website has already posted as best contributor. Golden words are not enough without a practical commitment and action.
Be a model, if you are a true advocator of democracy and individuals or group rights.
Thank you for your concern!!
Hawika Adhanom
Petros Haile May 17, 2013
Selam Adhanom,
In set out, we need to do an intensive, credible and objective research to find out whether there is a particular ethnic or religious or regional oppression or degradation in our country. … AGREE !
Unless we identify our problems, we cannot get a true solution to heal our pain. AGREE !
I am always worried when I see certain “egoist” and “narrow” political elites who promote sectarianism on the basis of ethnicity, region or religion among the ordinary people to get a space in political rooms….AGREE !
History confirms that this kind of sentiment or approach was/is destructive rather than constructive. In fact this can be best justified by the history of armed struggle, and the existing post independence political development which has produced nothing except hatred, mistrust, tension and division. …DISAGREE !
If we agree to the need and the legitimate reason for ethnic or religious groups to resist and challenge their oppressors, … then this could be a good start for you and me to begin talking about how to solve the problem, or even better to discuss if there is an oppression on the basis of ethnic & religion exist, ….. However, I don’t think you are denying the practices of deliberate or unintended practices of discrimination, or disadvantaged past to the Eritrea’s ethnic or religious communities, including the indiscriminate oppression towards the people of Eritrea in general, … Although you seem to focus more on the negative symptoms, and the methods of the sectarian form of resistance, while you totally negate the reason why these sectarian movements resort to choose their preferred ways of struggle, … To be honest with you, if you don’t recognize the historical and current practices of the Eritrean reality, … there is no room for the sectarian groups to compromise, let alone to reconcile on the national agendas … Dear Adhanom, once you come out of your captive and exclusionary mentality, then , only then together we can carve a common strategy, in which an army of ethnic, religious or even secular based armed resistance no longer necessary … I strogly recommend you to read the series of Ahmed Raji, and other Eritrean intellectuals well researched documents … You may be able to see Eritrea, and the question of self determination from a different perspective, I am hoping ?
Mr. Petros I am not sure what kind of profession you have, but it is immature to talk about what system Eritrea needs to pursue- self-determination, ethnic federalism, federation, confederation, unity within diversity, tight unity etc. … DISAGREE !
What is my profession has to do with my opinion ? Dear Adhanom, The concept of self determination has universal value, in fact it’s origin was the United Nations, I believe at that time it was called “League of Nations”, and there is nothing wrong with people addressing their preference on the political system in advance, in other words, while they are struggling, every social movement does that, even political parties have to advocate on what kind of system they would like to see implement and adhere to, in fact their political program & strategy should clearly address their future political system … if not that party has no basis to struggle … that is why I insist, having a platform is not the problem, the real challenge is how could a national unity can be carved, through the art of compromise and reconciliations ….
Let us leave, this issues to experts and professionals to design what best fit for the interest of the Eritrean people…. DISAGREE !
Again my dear Adhanom, This is a political matter, it is not a matter to be left for intellectuals and experts … You may solicit for advice and guidance from scholars and experts, but a political resistance movement will end up primarily in the hands of politicians, in most cases, these political movements, including their leaders ruled by a set of rules that is suitable for them to gain access to a political power, hopefully through election, eventually it enables them to control power, this way they can implement their political program and agendas … There no other magic formula to it …
It is not the real time to entertain with different models of political governance that can be developed through time determined by level of economy, political maturity, technological advancement, eional distribution, social cohesion, and enhancement of justice system. … DISAGREE !
You are dead wrong again, How could you be able to rule a country with out a political system, To develop a policy, to manage and administer, to enhance the bureaucracy or various institutions, political direction and it’s commands are vital, in fact they can not do with out … and you go figure, the role of political parties !
If you really feel the pain, it is the time to save our people and to save our nation urgently. Think what urgent action can be taken to save those our fellow citizens are suffering in jail and perishing in desert and sea. AGREE !
During emergency, you do not need to play with optimization of policy or decision making, because we are sitting at edge of the blade. But, it may not be painful for those in diaspora making themselves busy either hoarding money or advancing in education. … DISAGREE !
Dear Mr. Adhanom, Please tell me which category are you in ? Hoarding money or advancing in education ?
I do understand we have bad and destructive government in Eritrea; and our people know it, feel it and sense it, because they are part of the problem; but majority disrespect the worse political strategy of the opposition parties. For the last 10 years, they failed to click the heart and mind of the people. … AGREE !
And the solution is clear: Please learn what our people need. Don’t drive the truck of politics with your own ego and ambition. Do you think that PIA or his apparatus are strong enough to exist in power? NO! The problem is you and me have wrong political strategy to defeat the defeated regime…. I AGREE, I DISAGREE, I AM CONFUSED ?
My point is clear: we have a national problem; we need to address at national level. This means that the dissected political parties should work together to remove the despotic government in order to turn the country to democracy and justice. Otherwise, the divergent political bodies do not bring any change rather it complicated the political situation of the country, and elongated the life span of the regime. … AGREE
In spite of the fact that I appreciate your political optimism, you need to be more practical and realistic with ongoing situation in Eritrea. We have passed through painful past history more catalyzed by ethnic, religious and regional parochialism. .. DISAGREE.
Dear Adhanom, Again having going though difficult and painful past should encourage us to seek a lasting solution … It does not mean by ignoring it, the problem will be solved … I am saying, let’s deal with it, as they say, knowing and recognizing the problem can be half of the solution, then as you insist, we plug in the intellectuals, or farsighted politicians to solve the puzzle for us !!! As habehsa saying goes “Those who hides their illness, will never be cured” …
Whether by elements of coercion or persuasion, Eritrea plays a great role to minimize sectarian politics as the system is not in favor of any particularities or side. Which ethnic group; or which religious institution; or which region is benefited from the existing system? … DISAGREE
Here you missed the point by a mile, you can suppress movements for so long, but it will come back strong, when it comes it will be much more stronger, one may not be able to handle it … delaying justice has its cost … why do you think the former Soviet Union fragmented into 15 smaller states , how about the former Yugoslav that end up into 6 pieces, How about Checko-slavakia and many others …. in short deal with this issue now before it is too late … As your reference to Issayas regime down playing, or managed the potential danger for sectarian activities, … you are totally off track on this one … this was exactly what the former Soviet Union and the former Yugoslavians used to think !
No one. Nonetheless, those cheap and weak political elites are buying legitimacy in the name of ethnicity, religion and region. On my side, no matter to what extent you give them credit, we know how many members that each political group has. I feel sorry for them, and I advise to revise their agenda. … DISAGREE !
Now you sound like Megistu Hailemariam, speaking to Ethiopians on the “Small and insignificant” Shifta’s from the North … Dear Adhanom, be careful not to repeat history, Please make sure you speak of substance in a rational manner …
“MAY GOD BLESS OUR NOBLE FATHER AND TEACHER MR.FESTUM!!” … WORSHIPING !
I just personally think, as great a writer as Fistum is, the aggrandizement on his persona is to early for worshiping, I also know Mr. Fistum is not comfortable to be praised like that … he is to humble and full of humility, given this short time I have known him through his writings !
What I am astonished about you, Mr.Petros, you have been talking about individual or ethnic rights that expands up to self-determination; and acting more democratic in your aspiration, and gentle in your appearance, but at the end of the day I found you that you are MORE ARTIFICIAL, … (DECEPTIVE) DISAGREE !
because you violate my personal right is just to appreciate an individual person; and not only me, even this website has already posted as best contributor. Golden words are not enough without a practical commitment and action. DISAGREE !
Ato Fisum is doing a lot better than me and you combined, but for him to earn the title and praise you generously gave him, ….. he has to prove it to us that the forum he envisioned bares some fruit !!!
Be a model, if you are a true advocator of democracy and individuals or group rights. AGREE !
Thank you for your opinion,
Hawika Petros,
Said May 14, 2013
Thank u for this for the way you put it down, is struggling is long in better. let’s give it more time. for now, focusing in educating the public. we don’t want the problem to pop up later time. happy Independence Day.wadi hassen
Said May 14, 2013
continue I dont but this democracy Bologna work in Africa which is never have . it seems like only work in the Western coutery. why not we can try. even if its work . some countriesne never going too allowed anyway it’s nice to say it on the letters. I hope you are a very sure what you saying. and give me more reference. for now let’s stop the dictator. and we speak democracy.latter.
A.A Yassin May 14, 2013
“Democratic forces must reject such enemies before they mushroom into a full-fledged force that can threaten our society. ”
THAT IS WHY WE , THE DEMOCRATIC FORCES, SUPPORT THE POPULAR FRONT. WE WILL CONTINUE FIGHTING AGAINST CRIMINAL AND REACTIONARY FORCES.
WE ARE GLAD TO READ THAT Fitsum Wedi Abraham is on our side.
Wedi Abraham mSrab de’a yedlyo koynu ‘mber kem almaz (diamond) ‘yu::
Fitsum nay internet hlKu ms President ISSAIAS AFEWORKI ABRAHAM ‘nte zgedfo kemza nay Hji mengedi-Haqi Hizu ms teguaEze neyru::
wedi seb May 14, 2013
get on your level kid!! can’t you leave us alone please? stay where you belong wedi ghahba.
MightyEmbasoyra May 15, 2013
It is about time that we see a good article that criticizes these useless so called opposition parties (most of them). These people never believe in democracy at all.
These are as guilty as that cruel dictator – master of ignorance/poverty/cruelty. They care about themselves rather than the people who they suppose to represent.
Petros Haile May 15, 2013
Fistum,
I just re read your article, since this particular writing is full of contradictions, and I may add, it defies logic and common sense … In one hand you totally destroy the ethnic and religious element, as if there is no tomorrow, few sentence further, you talk about “unconditional Unity”, and at the beginning you seem to encourage by their past resistance record … and of course, the tittle itself is scary, you seem to give us an ultimatum “Take it or leave it” … I wander if the little Issayas is on the making ?
However, I sincerely preferred your last article, where there is a less hostile Fistum were on display … I normally don’t do this, but I decided to re-post your proposals, and my responds again, just to bring back the sane Fistum back to the civil discussion:
Petros Haile May 15, 2013
Here I suspect a foul play. I challenge u to tell us the relevant issues and the most urgent topics to u vis-a-vis the resiistance in relation to the points I suggested. I expect an answer and thank u. (Fistum A.)
a) Full pressure against the mining industries in our country internationally
Pressure to do what ? Quit their investment ? A private company to demand a reform on behalf of Eritreans? Those companies who already invested in Eritrea, will not stop their project, just because the divided opposition demands it … in fact investors are lined up to do their business, even though Eritrea’s reputation as unsuitable for foreign investment, even Chinese companies are interested in investing …the Qatari’s are entertaining the idea of building an international hub on Aseb, not to mention the latest finding on Israeli & Iranians developing interest to advance their regional influence, Red Sea being strategical contention place for both … Not only mining companies, but others as well … Dear Fistum, trying to pressure the mining company is an up heal battle, So, If I were you I would focus more on policy level, by involving Governmental and institutional bodies … on the other side, If the Eritrean government takes even a symbolic step towards reform, You will see companies running left and right to come and invest, and also be mindful Eritrea may not get as much attention as South Africa did during apartheid era, which the resistance for divestment targeting foreign companies doing business in South African had an enormous pressure from the international community … for simple reason, apartheid is a race based issue that involves almost the entire world, although Ethiopia tried to paint the Eritrean government as a terror sponsoring state, and as the regions destabilizing force, unfortunately even this characterization did not produce the desired results as Ethiopia wished it to be … the small success achieved was due to the belligerent behavior and action of the president himself … In regards to the U.S, as much as they wanted Ethiopia,the complete trust is out of the question , partly Ethiopia’s close ties to the Chinese and Indian investors, among others, and realizes the potential counter balance candidate can be Eritrea, but first Eritrea has to show the level of interest for U.S to justify their initial contact and resume diplomatic relationships … however We see the indication as you your self stated in your article above … and as you know if the U.S does not pursue and spear-headed the divestment campaign, no other country will … So, my dear Fistum, When you talk about pressuring the Eritrean government through the companies who already invested in the country, it is a bit complicated … Although we should consider on how to convert the benefits of investment to the average Eritreans … in all fairness to your first agenda, I will agree with you this issue be submitted to our intellectuals, and experts, and hopefully they will come up with a sensible strategy that can satisfy the investors primary interest (profit), and at the same time the benefits that shold trickle down to the average Eritrean … It might be helpful to visit Regan’s “Constructive engagement” policy, purely for comparative reasons …
Petros Haile May 15, 2013
b) Unanimous demand for a united front to all opposition forces including the youth by making it clear that the immediate priority is to form a TRANSITIONAL GOVERNMENT, not A FULL FLEDGED GOVERNMEN T. (Fistum)
Fistum, Call it Transitional or full fledged, or give it any other fancy name, The bottom line is the divided opposition has to come out clean from the dependent status, and must give up the Armed struggle strategy, or forcefully disarm by their host country, if regional crisis is to be avoided… This ought to be done before you begin the exploratory stage for Transitional Government discussions … We have seen enough examples around the globe not to entertain the stated option … the recent disaster includes, Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Syria, DRC and others … almost in all these cases, the multiple ethnic and religious conflicts dominated the seen, and as the result of it, million’s of innocent citizens lost their lives in the most gruesome ways … and the crisis is still on going . The irony is in almost all the cases, The U.S regret the dismantling of the regular defence force’s of the respective nations … the impact of this harsh reality felt right after the disintegration of the army. Iraq, Malaki could not be able to stabilize his country a decade after the down fall of Saddam Hussein, and in retrospect many U.S policy makers regret the dismantling of the Baatist army that kept the country united for generations … Afghanistan, U.S installed government is in major crisis, and Karzai is having difficult time managing the troubled region, in fact, the U.S began secret talk with the Taliban, with the same group they force to dismantle. Not to drag this discussion, I will stop here with the examples, but I want you to check the historical and current standing of the remaining three countries, Lebanon, Congo, Syria and many others … In short, We can learn a valuable lesson from these countries. Our regional conflicts, it may differ in some forms but in essence it is very similar. Dear Fistum, it is one thing to come up with generic proposals, but to realize the danger we are facing with the current trends of arming multiple sectarian movements, and become part of the coalition, or as you suggested to form a Transitional Government, is an invitation to chaos & Anarchy, please, observe the Syrian conflict as it unfolds … It will be difficult to reverse ones it becomes the reality on the ground … and syria’s fate will be similar to their neghbours, So is our beloved Eritrea, if we fail to predict the inevitable !!!