The Gada System is a well-developed and complex operation system representing unique civilization of humanity since antiquity. The Gada System is well known by its feature of peaceful and democratic transfer of political power (Bali) in every eight (8) years. Having exercised democratic political power for 8 consecutive years, the power holder transfers his power officially and publicly.
The Public power transfer ceremony takes place at a Gada center where all the voters and concerned sections of the society participate. These centers are at Gumi Gayo for Borana and Gabra, Mi’e Boko & Nura for Guji, Oda Nabe for Tulama, Oda Bisil & Oda Bulluk for Macha, Hora Sama for Karayu, Oda Roba for Arsi, and Oda Bultum for Itu & Humbana. It is a ritual by which Bali or the symbol of political power is transferred to newly elected Abba Gada (the presiding leader). Such power transferring ceremonies occur every eight years at ritual places or elsewhere with unique cultural performances and are exceptional tourist attractions.
The scholar Asmarom laggesee in his book explained that the Gada System is one of the most remarkable inventions and civilizations that human beings have embraced. He also said that the Gada System is indeed the solution to some of Africa’s problems and that it is one of the few practical and remarkable systems contributed by the past generation, which has benefited not only the Oromo of Ethiopia, but the entire African continent.
It is known that in the history of Oromo people, citizens are given the responsibility to be a protector of the nation from an early age. Their duties and responsibilities are determined by the system in a systematic and democratic manner. Responsibilities are also placed in the years apart. In this regard, we contacted deputy head of Oromia Culture and Tourism Bureau Derara Ketema and he shared us the following in details.
The name of the village is different in different parts of Oromia. However, since their functions are the same, we will mention those that are being used consistently. In this sense, the division begins with the name Debele, which includes children up to 8 years of age. They are limited in their responsibilities because they are the children in this rank. They are also provided to serve the neighbouring and similar local communities not far from their families.
The second stage of the Gada system is the Game Titika section, which extends from 8 years to 16 years. The children who are assigned to this stage are also subject to different job responsibilities than the first. This allows them to practice simple tasks without being too far away from their villages.
The third level is called Kondala or Game Gurguda, where peoples between the ages of 16 and 24 are designated. This is the age at which they are chosen for hunting, and beyond that, they are allowed to go long distances to do hard work. Three years before the end of the Kondala, members of the Gada class gather and appoint future group leaders (Hayu Council) and eventually become leaders and executives, judicial and procedural officials. Before the final election, however, there is usually a protracted negotiation campaign. The candidates will be accompanied by their supporters to visit the community to gain the support of the public before the elections. The individuals are selected based on wisdom, bravery, health, and fitness.
The fourth level is called Kusa, which involves peoples between the ages of 24 and 32. It is the stage in which previously elected leaders officially join even if they do not hold full power except for their own group, and it is considered one of the most important events in individual life and in all aspects of the Gada system. The Kusa section requires preparation time to assume full power, and it is also considered to be where they are ready to join the next class, the Raba Dori, and act as members.
The fifth stage of the system is called Raba Dori, which is attended by men between the ages of 32 and 40. The main task is the time when the class members enter the Luba or Gada. They are the most important part of the system, and they are fully attained. As the ruling Gada class. At this stage, the system will be stopped and all citizens will leave the last part and move to the process room. This is immediately occupied by the new youth class and begins to climb the ladder of the system.
The sixth level is located in the so-called Gada section. This level includes citizens between the ages of 40 and 48 and takes on various responsibilities. This section is called Luba. A citizen who has passed this stage deserves Yuba. The Oromo people are given three age ranges. The first Yuba is 48 to 56, and the second Yuba is 56 to 64. The third is for citizens between the ages of 64 and 72.
After going through these three different eight-year periods, the Yuba will be promoted to the “Gadamoji class. This is part of the ascetic level that will last from 72 to 80 years. Then there will be a final section called ‘Jarsa’ where they will be fully retired.
It is imperative that the people of Oromo celebrate the transformation of the Geda system. Therefore, every eight years, a large festival is celebrated with a large feast called Buta with a large feast, slaughtering bulls, dunes, antlers. Citizens who are dubbed Luba and who take on big responsibilities will be given the power to take over.
The power will be realized when the citizens in each class reach the age of 40. In doing so, the system will be carried out to the end. As he moves from one stage to another, his actions and lifestyle in society change. For example, at the grade level of Kondala, Kusa and Raba Dori, the individuals learn war strategy, Oromo history, politics, order, law and administration over a period of 24 years.
When they enter the Gada class or Luba at the age of 40, they have acquired all the necessary knowledge to carry out the responsibility of governing the country and observing rituals, and ends up fully or partially retiring. A group of elders will also be transformed into advisory and judicial capacities.
According to the Tulama Gada procedure, the so-called Gada officials are: Abba Boku President; Abba Chafe – Chairman of the Assembly (Chafe); Abba Dubi – Speaker who presents the President’s decision to the Assembly; Abba Sera (Abbaa Seera): Memorandum of the rules and the results of the discussions of the Conference; Abba Alanga – the judge who executes the decision; Abba Dula – the head of the army.
BY NAOL GIRMA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY 2025
