The 14th Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Day (NNPD) is being colorfully marked under the theme: Constitutional Covenant for Lasting Peace hosted by Oromia State here in Addis Ababa. The day is marked in full recognition of the sovereignty of the Nations, Nationalities and Peoples of Ethiopia as provided in the Preamble and Article 8 of the constitution. Furthermore, the day depicts the unflinching and unswerving unity of the peoples of this country tested by history and practical life of the peoples of Ethiopia.
Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Day is marked in Ethiopia when the peoples and government of this country are engaged in a democratic reform process which is gradually but certainly unfolding. It is indeed a day in which the peoples of Ethiopia once more affirm their commitment to unity in diversity in the Ethiopian multi-ethnic federalism.
This day is also a vivid reminder of the valor exhibited of the peoples of this country in defending the territorial integrity of the country. As the world has already recognized, Ethiopia has proved to be the origin of mankind and ancient civilization. Ethiopians have continued to live together in peace and peaceful coexistence for thousands of years. Religious tolerance in this country has already set a vivid example for those countries in the world that are suffering from religious conflicts.
Celebrating this day cannot be reduced to the cultural show of the peoples of this country. It is indeed far beyond that. It is a day in which they renew their commitment to upholding the federal system which they formed by their struggle and choice. The federal system is not an alternative political system that is imposed on the peoples of Ethiopia but a system that recognizes the inherent desire for equity in development, good governance and the prevalence of peace in the country
The peoples of Ethiopia need peace for their livelihood and can never accept any form of diktat imposed on them from any corner in our out. Failing to recognize the current meaning and essence of unity as a wholesome desire of the peoples of Ethiopia is tantamount to losing sight of the fundamental needs of the peoples of Ethiopia.
Ethiopia and Ethiopians are not a mental creation of some thinkers who try to twist the reality on the ground and the best interest of the peoples of Ethiopia. All the regimes who ruled this country in the past either tried to make a fiction for the justification of their divine authority or tried to use local repression and gun boat diplomacy and later on resorted to political manipulation in yellow journalism and demagogy in politics.
Nations, nationalities and people’s day marked today is a clear answer for those who are busy altercating on endless polemics on federalism as if they can change the course of history taken by the peoples of Ethiopia.
The legitimate state of peace that is currently demanded by the peoples of Ethiopia emanates from their sovereign rights to sustainable development and custodians of their own peace. The peoples of Ethiopia celebrate this day to send a message that the federal order is irreversible and that peaceful Ethiopia would prevail.
The reform that is unfolding in Ethiopia is expected to add more value to the promotion of democracy and good governance ushering a new era in the establishment of inclusive and genuine federalism in Ethiopia enabling all the nations, nationalities and peoples of this country to participate in decision making that would affect their livelihood and wellbeing in all spheres of public life. Again, thanks to the constitutionally guaranteed federal system, the peoples of Ethiopia would go to polling stations to decide which organization or organizations will administer the country on their own behalf.
The economic reform which is already taking shape is geared to effectively addressing the needs of the peoples of Ethiopia many of which are either on the process of being addressed or yet to be considered but still equity is the major aspect of addressing the socio-economic demands of the peoples of Ethiopia. Without addressing the economic equity for the nations, nationalities and peoples in this country, the values behind the celebration of nations, nationalities and peoples could be easily undermined giving was for those who are still against the federal system.
The Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Day is a day on which the peoples of Ethiopia renew their respect for each other and once again share their experiences to be able to discharge their responsibilities in building a new democratic and multi ethnic federal system in which the rights of every citizen is respected with due accord to the responsibilities that everyone should shoulder.
All the more, it is also very important to prepare and mentor the youth on the cardinal values of the Nation, Nationalities and Peoples Day so that the coming generation will be able to renew their covenant for the promotion of sustained peace in Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian Herald December10, 2019
BY SOLOMMON DIBABA
