Abiy Ahmed’s Desperate Quest for Foreign Forces (OLF-OLA  Press Release)

Why is Abiy Ahmed now reverting to    requesting to involve foreign forces in his protracted civil war in Oromia?What are the implications? What is the Oromo Liberation Army’s (OLA) message to regional and international actors?                                                     

1. This move is primarily an implicit admission of defeat.
The regime’s pursuit of external support—no matter how limited, seen from the extent of Kenya´s current involvement—reveals a stark admission of its inability to fight the OLA independently. Unable to effectively confront the OLA across Oromia, it is an attempt to manufacture the illusion of strength.             
2. We are confident that the Kenyan government, a trusted neighbour and partner, recognizes the perilous implications of entangling itself in Ethiopia’s internal strife. Kenya’s leadership has consistently demonstrated wisdom and foresight in navigating regional dynamics, and will continue to prioritize sustainable stability and peace over short-term political expediency. Ultimately, however, this reliance of the regime on foreign intervention, no matter who is invited, will never alter the military balance on the ground.             
3. It is also a desperate facade of diplomatic resilience.
The regime’s outreach to foreign forces reflects a broader attempt to sustain the illusion of diplomatic relevance. Having isolated itself as a regional pariah— embroiled in conflicts with Eritrea, Sudan, and Somalia—the Ethiopian regime is grasping at straws to project an image  of regional influence. Otherwise, what do we call the staged confrontations near the peripheral Kenyan border while intense battles with OLA are raging at the center in Bishoftu and Sululta?             
4. In its quest for regional and international validation, the regime may have already made significant concessions in national treasure, the full extent of which remains unclear. History will undoubtedly reveal the long-term consequences of these actions, which  are likely to undermine the interests of the people of the country and further destabilize the region.
5. Faced with a collapsing military and economy, the regime has resorted to convening Oromo elders and opposition representatives in a superficial attempt to alleviate mounting pressure over the past few days. We caution all Oromo elders and opposition forces against falling  for this hollow gesture. Abiy has repeatedly demonstrated a lack of genuine commitment to sustainable peace. He only seeks to use the opposition to create a facade of inclusivity and dialogue.             
6. Abiy Ahmed’s resurfacing wish to rely on foreign forces and the state of the military and economy underscore the regime’s deepening crisis. These actions not only highlight its inability to resolve internal conflicts but also risk exacerbating regional instability. We call upon the international community to recognize these desperate attempts to cling to power at the expense of the people of the country and their aspirations for peace and justice, and regional stability.             

OLF-OLA High Command            

February 6, 2025