The heroic OLA is our muscle.

Headline: Ethiopian oromo rebels claim battle gains over government troops


BODY:


Text of report by Ethiopian opposition radio Voice of Oromo Liberation audio website on 19 May

The heroic Oromo Liberation Army [OLA, armed wing of Oromo Liberation Front, OLF] fighters operating in eastern and northeastern regions have put over 34 enemy soldiers out of action.

The OLA, the muscle and the shield of the Oromo people, yesterday, 18 May 2007, attacked a gathering of local weyane [Ethiopian government] administrators, military commanders, government cadres and organizations at a place called Weldiya in Welo's Bati District in northeastern zone, killing eight of them and wounding over 15 others. Survivors of the attack fled in different directions.

In another development, the heroic OLA combatants operating in eastern zone, on 11 May 2007, mounted an attack on weyane forces in Mudhi Baliti in Midhaga Lola District in East Harerge Zone. The OLA killed six enemy soldiers, wounded five and captured four others in the attack. Four AK-47 rifles, large amount of ammunition and grenades were also captured and converted into weapons of Oromo liberation [struggle; passage omitted].

On the same day, OLA fighters stormed the prison in Mudhi Balli and freed Oromo detainees as well as destroyed prison registry.

It is to be recalled that between 10 and 15 May 2007, the heroic OLA and Ogaden National Liberation Army [ONLA] carried out a joint military operation in various places in Warder province [eastern Ethiopia], killing over 82 weyane soldiers and wounding over 75 others. Local Ogaden people were impressed by the OLA's military action.

Source: Voice of Oromo Liberation audio website in Oromo 19 May 07

BBC Monitoring

May 21, 2007

Joint operation/OLA.ONLA

May 20, 2007 (ADDIS ABABA) — Two Ethiopian rebel groups carried out a joint military operation against the Ethiopian army in the eastern part of the country. A rebel statement alleged 157 soldiers were killed during the attack.

In a joint military operation, the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) and the Ogaden National Liberation Army (ONLA) have killed 157 soldiers of the Ethiopian army in various places in the Warder zone of the Ogaden region in eastern Ethiopia.

According to Voice of Oromo Liberation, between 10 and 15 May 2007, commando units of the OLA and ONLA conducted attacks in various places in the zone of Warder killing over 82 Ethiopian soldiers and wounding over 75 others.

“The regular troops particularly badly suffered in a battle that occurred at a place called Biyo Daye. Following this battle various types of materiel and many hand grenades and ammunition were captured from the enemy.” The rebel radio said.

OLA, the military wing of the OLF and ONLA, the military wing of the ONLF said they would step up joint military operations against the Ethiopian army.

The Ormo Liberation Front (OLF) and Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) are members of an opposition coalition (Alliance for Freedom and Democracy) formed on May 22, 2006. The other members of the AFD are the Sidama Liberation Front (SLF), the Coalition for Unity and Democracy Party (CUDP) and the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF) and the Ethiopian People’s Patriotic Front (EPPF).

Breaking News,Heavy fighting has broken out on at least two fronts near the weak Somali interim

Source BBC News


The government is getting military help from Ethiopia

Heavy fighting has broken out on at least two fronts near the weak Somali interim government's base in Baidoa.
A deadline from Islamists for Ethiopia to withdraw troops from Somalia or face "major attacks" expired on Tuesday.

Residents say pro-government forces and the Islamic militia exchanged mortar shells at Daynunay, 20km from Baidoa.

A European Union envoy was in Baidoa to meet officials. There are fears an all-out war would plunge the entire Horn of Africa region into crisis.

The EU's development commissioner, Louis Michel, has now travelled on to the capital, Mogadishu, to meet Union of Islamic Court (UIC) leaders on a mission to get peace talks to resume.


Clashes

"I can confirm to you that heavy fighting has already started around several front line areas," Islamic commander Sheikh Mohamed Ibrahim Bilal told AFP news agency.

Government commander Ibrahim Batari accused the Islamists of mounting the attack. "There is shelling everywhere... our forces are facing Islamists, hell is going on," he said.

Islamic militias have attacked us and the fighting is continuing

"I can hear sounds of bullets, rockets from the side where the defence lines of the Islamic courts and the government are," a resident in the government's military base in Daynunay, southeast of Baidoa, told Reuters news agency.

Islamist spokesman Abdirahin Ali Mudey says the base is now in UIC hands, which residents talking to the BBC confirm.

Meanwhile, clashes have broken out in Moode Moode - a village off the Dayunay-Burhakaba road.

"Islamic militias have attacked us and the fighting is continuing," the government's deputy defence minister, Salad Ali Jelle, told Associated Press news agency about the Moode Moode fighting.

There is also heavy fighting and at least one death being reported near Idale, some 60km (37 miles) south Baidoa, after skirmishes on Tuesday evening.

"Last evening, a reconnaissance team from the government and the Islamic courts clashed [in Idale]," Mr Jelle told Reuters on Wednesday.

"But this morning, ground troops from both sides exchanged mortars from a distance."

'Dialogue'

The BBC's Adam Mynott in Baidoa says the town is in a precarious situation, with guns seen everywhere.

There are soldiers armed with AK-47s, technicals - pick-up trucks mounted with heavy weapons - and Ethiopian troops at Baidoa airport, he says.

Mr Michel has held talks with Prime Minister Ali Mohamed Ghedi and MPs.

On Tuesday, Ethiopian Information Minister Birhan Hailu told the BBC that his country was always ready for dialogue, but said the Islamists were not willing to talk with the transitional government.

"We don't have troops in Somalia, but as we have said so many times, we have a limited number of military advisers to support the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia.

"The Ethiopian government is always ready to have peace talks with anybody in Somalia, and we wish a peaceful solution to the problem in Somalia."

War

Earlier this week, the UIC appeared to backtrack on an ultimatum for Ethiopians troops to leave Somalia or face a holy war.

UIC spokesman Abdi-Rahiin Ali Mudey said the Islamists would not attack the Ethiopians or Baidoa, but wanted talks.

On Saturday, Islamist leader Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed said the movement was prepared for "dialogue" with Ethiopia.

In Yemen, he announced a deal with the speaker of the Somali parliament to resume talks after they collapsed last month.

But other Islamist officials were being reported on Tuesday as saying they are "now in the last stages of preparing for full-scale war" against Ethiopian forces inside Somalia.

The government says talks could resume if the Islamists stopped making threats. Last week, interim President Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed ruled out any further talks.

Islamic leaders deny accusations of al-Qaeda links.

Sory from BBC NEWS

Somali group denies al-Qaeda link Somalia's powerful Islamist group has dismissed US allegations that its leadership is dominated by al-Qaeda.
US Assistant Secretary of State Jendayi Frazer said radical forces had sidelined more moderate forces in the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC).
But a UIC spokesman said the US was trying to derail the stability it had brought to much of Somalia this year.
As tensions rise between the UIC and the weak interim government backed by Ethiopia, fears of a regional war grow.
Ms Frazer warned against a military solution and said the way ahead should be through talks between the two sides.
Arab League-mediated talks are scheduled to take place next week in Khartoum, but neither side has confirmed that they will attend.
Divide and rule
"The top layer of the courts are extremists to the core, they are terrorists and they are creating this logic of war," Ms Frazer told reporters in Washington.
I assure you that we have only one motive and that is we need our country safe and at peace. UIC's Sheikh Abdurahim Ali Muddey
But UIC spokesman Sheikh Abdurahim Ali Muddey said the accusations were nothing new and were an attempt to divide the group.
"I can assure you again that the Islamic courts are not a threat to anybody and America is just intending to derail stability in Somalia," he told AFP news agency.
"I assure you that we have only one motive and that is we need our country safe and at peace."
The US, Ethiopia and the Somali government have all accused the UIC of working with al-Qaeda.
Military build-up
The UIC has taken control of much of southern Somalia, including the capital, Mogadishu, since June.
The government only controls the territory around the town of Baidoa.
On Tuesday, the Islamists gave Ethiopian troops it says are backing the government a week to leave the country or face a "major attack".
Ethiopia has denied having any troops fighting in Somalia but admits sending hundreds of military trainers to help government forces.
Mrs Frazer warned that the Islamists were receiving funding from Eritrea, Yemen, Egypt and Saudi Arabia.
Last week, the UN Security Council approved plans to send peacekeepers to protect the government in Baidoa and amend an arms embargo, despite strong opposition from the UIC.
But correspondents say a military build-up on both sides makes it less likely that any peacekeepers will be deployed.
Both sides said this week that they have been sending troops to Tiyeglow, on the main road from the Ethiopia border to Baidoa, following clashes south-west of Baidoa.
Story from BBC NEWS:

I THINK I'VE HAD ENOUGH

Interview With Meles Zenawi
Thursday, December 14, 2006; 12:26 PM
The Washington Post's Stephanie McCrummen sat down this week with Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi to discuss rising tensions with Somalia's Islamic Courts, and the state of democracy inside the country.
On the issue of Somalia: Ethiopia is inching closer to war with the Islamic Courts, who have taken over large swaths the country, including its capital, and who have in the past called for creation of a "Greater Somalia," including portions of ethnically Somali Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti. Diplomats estimate that Ethiopia has at least 8,000 troops in Somalia bolstering the fragile, but internationally recognized transitional government, a claim that Ethiopia has repeatedly denied.
'The Washington Post\'s Stephanie McCrummen sat down this week with Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi to discuss rising

Q: First, your reaction to the call by the Islamic Courts for Ethiopia to withdraw its forces in seven days?
A: They have issued an ultimatum. This does not come as a surprise to me. The declaration is based on falsehoods. It is true we have troops in Baidoa, the capital, who are there to train forces of the transitional federal government, who are an internationally recognized government and who have officially asked for support from Ethiopia. . . . Now, if the transitional government does not want our trainers, we'd be happy to withdraw them. . . . But on a more fundamental level it appears that this jihadist movement is hell-bent on controlling all of Somalia. That for them, the negotiations are a ploy used to facilitate their goal. They see Ethiopia as a stumbling block.
Q. There are analysts, diplomats and others who fear that limited conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia, even a short conflict, would ultimately spawn terrorist attacks across the region in neighboring countries, that it would embolden the more radical elements within the courts. Do you share this analysis? What are your thoughts on the idea that even an African Union deployment might make matters worse in the long run?
A. This argument does fascinate me. It does surprise me that intelligent people in the 21st century could claim that if you respond to the terrorists with force, you spawn terrorism, but if you appease them, you somehow tame them. This argument, as I said, is very interesting, and very surprising. . . . This policy of feckleness in the face of threats, this beatification of this threat, is quite dangerous. . . . There is a group in the Islamic Movement in Mogadishu that is not interested in democratic secular government in Somalia, that is hell-bent on establishing a Taliban regime in Somalia. Now, you can facilitate the Talibanization of Somalia through dialogue. If that is the intention, it perhaps makes sense. But you cannot stop a group that has clearly demonstrated that it wants to Talibanize all of Somalia, that is prepared to use dialogue to facilitate its military takeover. For someone to say in the face of such facts and stark realities, that facing the challenge on its own terms is what creates the challenge in the first place, such arguments in my view are worse than fecklessness in the face of a challenge.
On Democracy: In May 2005, the Ethiopian government conducted what many observers considered the most open and competitive elections since Prime Minister Meles Zenawi took power in a 1991 coup. An estimated 90 percent of the country's 25 million registered voters took part. When the preliminary results were announced, however, opposition party members accused the government of fraud, and took to the streets to protest, prompting a recount that showed the opposition parties made significant gains, but did not win a majority. When the opposition took to the streets again in November, they clashed with government security forces who opened fire. A government investigation found that 197 people were killed, including six police officers. Thousands of opposition members were arrested, and more than 100 opposition leaders, journalists and relief workers remain in jail, many having been charged with treason.
Q. I wanted to ask you about how your thinking has changed since you arrived in 1991. How has your thinking changed on subject of democracy? And do you believe that Ethiopia needs a strong, viable, peaceful opposition in order to progress?
A. Of course everybody's thinking evolves over time. Only dead people cease learning, and I am not certified dead yet. So I am still learning. Over the years I've come to recognize that democratization in Ethiopia is not just a matter of choice. It's a matter of national survival. I am deeply convinced that we either democratize and have a good chance of surviving, or if we fail to do so, we disintegrate. That is a significant evolution in my thinking. I know more now than I did in the past about the process of democratization. I know more about the pitfalls. With regards to your second question, a peaceful, strong viable opposition is part of any vibrant democracy. And we wish to have a vibrant democracy, and therefore we wish to have a vibrant, strong, peaceful opposition that is fully committed to the constitution and to play by the rules.
Q. Given what you just said, do you have any regrets about what happened after the election last year? There are hundreds of opposition members still in jail, thousands arrested at the time -- 197, I believe, killed, according to the government's report. Given what you just said, do you have any regrets about what happened?
A.. Yes, well, it's very regrettable that the election which was described as a model, that it turned out that this process in the end was tarnished by the fact that many people died. I regret the deaths of these people. It was a completely unnecessary and tragic series of events. I do not regret the fact that we have detained political leaders of this insurrection.
Q. Insurrection?
A. Yes. We bent back a lot to prevent this. . . . They said that there were irregularities in the elections. . . . Our response has been okay, we have the processes. We have the national election board. . . . And if you don't accept the board you go to the courts. . . . So we bent back, and said we accept the process of review of the counting, which involved the opposition parties' representatives and foreign observers. . . . Having done it we were not able to prevent publicly declared -- openly and publicly declared -- exercise of overthrowing the duly constituted government by unconstitutional means. And the rule of law is the basis for any democracy. And without the rule of law in democracy, you have chaos. They were pushing the country towards chaos. And we had to enforce the rule of law. And they have had their day in court. That is as it should be. There are no regrets here.
Q. I've been talking to a lot of people, regular people here on the streets in Addis, and some are open, and talk. But a lot of people are afraid to talk. They are concerned about expressing their opinion. Why do you think that is? Do you think that's warranted? Why do you think there's such a fear among people here?
A. I don't think there is such fear. At least in expressing opinions contrary to government. . . . There might be fear with regards to those associated with groups intent in carrying out insurrection. And supporters of armed insurrection might be concerned to have their ideas known. It is illegal to be a member of an organization that is challenging the constitution by armed force. But other than that, I don't see any fear. But I also understand that the opposition wants to prove that this is a repressive regime.
Q. Do you have any plans to try for a third term?
A. My party? My party will try not only for a third term but for a tenth term.
Q. And you personally?
A. And me personally, I think I've had enough.

8 Ethiopian soldiers defect to Eritrea
Posted: 07.12.2006 I
Ethiopian soldiers arrive here opposing TPLF regime’s invasion of Somalia: Ministry of Information - Eritrea
Asmara, 6 December 2006 – 8 Ethiopian soldiers arrived in Eritrea opposing the TPLF regime’s invasion of Somalia. One of the soldiers, Alelign Simeneh disclosed that troops from different divisions of the Ethiopian Army have entered Somalia territory in breach of its sovereignty. He added that the regime is imprisoning officers, soldiers and health professionals under the guise of evaluation after the defection of two Ethiopian generals who have joined the opposition.Accordingly, Lt. Colonel Girma, ex-secretary of Maj. General Bacha Debele and several other senior officers and health professionals who were members of the Army and an unknown number of nurses have defected. The 8 soldiers are Kamel Kemalo Sheik, Hassan Mohammed Ibrahim, Wegari Gidina Mokjera, Abyot Sheferaw Hunde, Teyib Haji Temam Suleiman, all 5 from the Oromo ethnic group, and Alelign Simeneh Gezu and Adane Mekuanint Ayichew, both from the Amhara ethnic group, as well as Ab

Deki Halal Meriet, for a daily news on the hunting down of Weyane in Oromia, log on to www.oromoliberationfront.org (SBO radio broadcast in Amharic). Oromia is up and there the Weyane are dropping like flies. The Ethiopian revolution rages on and you can get a daily radio broadcast on that. The Weyane cadre and spy in Oromia is being hunted one Weyane spy at time-cleaning Oromia of all Weyane elements. Pretty soon Oromia is to be liberated and there will be no Weyane machinery to operate from Oromia. This is freeinh Oromia by hunting one Weyane at time from all Oromia towns and villages. Therefore Eritrea, be patient and just sit tight and watch and let let the Ethiopians do their thing. While Meles Zenawi is having nightmares at Menelik Palace and while the Weyane are being hunted all over Ethiopia, Eritrea is at “work”. By the way, this “Somalia” thing most definitely is to speed up the capture of Meles. Please tell Wedi Afom Beri that now is the time for ABA GOBYE to go even slower! PETIENCE ERITREA, PLEA

Dec 5, 2006 — In the horn of Africa the daily occurrences are faster than one could follow. At a time hopeful events occurred, and at times all the hopes diminishes. Therefore, it is vital for the peoples of the region to keep their esteems up-ward, as there will always be a hope at the end of the tunnel there is always a light!Starting from the very volatile nation without any central government for more than fifteen years, since the collapse of former President Siad Barre, in 1991. Clan based power of warlords took the country into chaos. Within the capital city, Mogadisho there were more than five clan-doms. Fear, lawlessness, was everyday life for the citizens. The whole nation brake down into self proclaimed states. As the current chaos continues some neighboring countries are encouraging the breakaway states of disintegration, which have vested interested in weakened and lawless Somalia.Never the less there is a deem light coming out, if the Somalis are able to tighten their belts and come to regain their independency, the fragile but deem light could lead them to the ever-lasting peace. This everlasting peace though cannot be achieved without paying the necessary price that is courage and sacrifice for the good of the people. Sacrifice not necessary mean to give once life, but to be self less. The intrusion and interference of United States and Ethiopia however, will make it more difficult, but it is still possible that the Somalis themselves can achieve what they want.The Sudanese people are passing through very challenging but fruitful period. The peaceful solution of Southern Sudan conflict, which was the cause of loss of hundreds of thousands of innocent lives, and destabilization, displacement, and other horrible impacts on the citizens, has brought impeccable peace in a civilized manner, have given a relief and hope to the whole region. Nevertheless, the reached peace agreement undoubtedly needs to be nurtured with implementation of the sprit of the intended goal. It has been marked some hick-ups here and there, although it is natural, however, it needs responsible solutions on timely manner. It is a relief to mark that the sole people who fought against each other are now working together for the same goal that is peace for all. Another equally important peace agreement took place recently solved the Eastern Sudan conflict. This agreement did not only solve the conflict of the East, but also took place with no external interference of any kind. Such a process will be very helpful on implementing the agreement with less or without obstacles. Sudan is now left with one but very important and dangerous conflict to solve. The Darfur conflict! Undoubtedly, the Darfuris suffers are unacceptable. The peace loving multicultural and multi race, known to be so kind people, should not allow this to happen. Sudanese are known to be very kind and generous people. Neighbor nations Eritrea, Libya, and Egypt are trying to bring this highly publicized and very sensitive to the well being of the whole nation. Sooner than later bringing the highly wanted peace is a win-win situation to the Sudanese people and the whole continent.Neighboring Ethiopia, after the fall of dictator Mengistu Hailemariam, the hope reached at its highest barometer, that Ethiopia is going to be the bacon of peace, tranquility and prosperity. People hoped that will be the end of seeing Ethiopian suffer and misery. The EPRDF the united front of all Ethiopians that include, the Tigres, Amharas, Oromos, Somalis, and other nationals, helped by the EPLF, the Eritrean peoples liberation front, took over the government in 1991. Soon the Tigrai dominated front systematically ejected or undermined the ones comrades in fighting for the same cause to free and democratize Ethiopia, starting from the Oromos, Amharas and others. The regime led by PM Meles Zenawi, have fully focused on Tigrai regions sole benefit at the cost of other regions. The TPLF’s dream of a separate independent Tigrai is still intact to date. To realize their dream, they annexed chunks of fertile lands from Wolo and Begemider regions. They even crossed international boundary, to annex a sovereign Eritrean land, which triggered to the unwanted war of the neighborly nations. The war that started in 1996 was a great miscalculation by the TPLF led regime in Ethiopia. Washington Times’ in one of its articles, “ Ethiopia lost more than 70 thousands lives with nothing to show for such large sacrifice.” This animosity was supposedly to be solved under the court ruling, which both Eritrea and Ethiopia agreed under the “Algiers agreement” signed in December 2000. Under the agreement the commission made up five prominent judges was established to rule the conflict.Article 5 No. 17 of the agreement stated as follows: “Decisions and awards of the commission shall be final and binding. The parties agree to honor all decision and to pay any monetary awards rendered against them promptly.” While on April 2002, a clear verdict was awarded, unfortunately, the TPLF regime did not uphold the agreement to date, while Eritrea fully believed and adhered to the agreement.Ethiopia, due to amateurish immature government, now the country is under high political stress. The Oromos, the Amharas, the Somalis and other nationals are fighting against the minority regime. If it were not with the extended help of the WEST the regime in Ethiopia would have collapsed. Not only that, the supposedly democratic election for a government that took place last year, the regime in power did not want to accept the out come. The winners of the election are currently lingering in the prison cells, under a treason charge, the charge that is punishable to death under the countries rule.The current Ethiopian situation is seriously dangerous, for the whole region. Ethiopia is fully intervening in inter Somalia conflicts, besides occupying Eritrean, Sudanese, Somali, and Kenyan sovereign lands.This newly emerged country Eritrea was under chain of colonies until 1991, wining the war against Ethiopia’s at the time Africa’s most powerful army. Eritrea took its legal time to officially proclaim its independence. In 1993 under the observations of UN, OAU and others, Eritreans voted 99.85% for independence. With that Eritrea became an independent nation, in May 24, 1993.The hard working Eritreans, unlike other newly emerged nations or nations recovered from war, they did not get any help. No nation-raised funds to assist or rehabilitate its collapsed economy and infrastructure. To the contrary, Eritrea fully relied on its citizens with in Eritrea and the Diasporas. The unwanted second aggression of Ethiopia that started in 2006, have interrupted to certain degree the acceleration of its economic recovery. Nevertheless, these hard working people, while defending their sovereign nation they are also fully involved in nation building. Eritrea has built more schools, hospitals, roads, bridges, and colleges during these challenging years than its peacetime of five years. While some very important political process has been halted, giving priority to national safety and security, it is the will of the people and the government that Eritrea became the beacon of democracy, by the people to its people with out any pressure or to please any other but its own people.Eritrea’s stand on Somali conflict is very clear. While admitting the Somali people’s help for Eritrea’s independence during the struggle, it is very important that the Somali people should solve their problem without any foreign intervention(s).The brotherly people of Sudan have contributed undeniable assistance during the struggle for Eritrean independence. Eritrea is well aware that peace and prosperity of brotherly people of Sudan is tantamount to its own peace and prosperity. Therefore it takes as its own peace when Sudan realizes full peace. It contributed to the Southern Sudan conflict, as it played a major role assisting to solve the Eastern Sudan conflict. It is openly extending its will to contribute to the Darfuri conflict’s solution. Eritrea is enjoying Djibouti’s friendly neighborliness. Both nations have signed protocols that bring both peoples even closer.In regard to Ethiopia, the people of Eritrea made it clear that it is only a peaceful way based on mutual respect that is enabling us to live as neighbors, rather than enemies. Eritrea have extended its hand of peace, at the end of the war for independence, although the country has been destroyed to ashes, and over 65,000 Eritreans lost their lives due to the barbaric act of the regimes in Ethiopia.Eritrea always maintained that “Only the ruling elite is the enemy of Eritrea, not the people.” The same holds even now.The small nation Djibouti, being very strategic and important nation is playing bigger roll on stabilizing the region. It is the only nation that maintained peace and friendship with all its neighbors. It is also the nation that solved it is internal conflicts in a civilized manner citing in a round table. A democratically elected government is a great example to nations surrounding it.Knowing better and more than any other nation(s) Djibouti, have tried to bring the Somali brothers together, and even hosted to the point that gave a little hope on establishing a transitional government. Djibouti, at this time maintains its full support to united Somalia, and united government.Its roll in IGAD is remarkable. Although, IGAD is not as functional as each of the member nations citizens wanted it to be, due to conflicts of Eritrea and Ethiopia and Somalia’s fragile situation.

OROMO LIBERATION FRONTDeclaration of war will not lead to security but rather spark more chaos in the Horn: Statement by the Oromo Liberation FrontThe Ethiopian parliament on its session of November 30, 2006 ratified a declaration of war on Somalia and Eritrea. Most surprisingly it took the unprecedented step of declaring war on the Oromo Liberation Front as well in the face of fierce resistance from the loyal opposition on the grounds that this would be an extraordinary act of criminalizing political demand. This reckless decision would undoubtedly lead to chaos in the Horn of Africa. The OLF would like to let it be known to all concerned that the Ethiopian regime and it alone, bears full responsibility for this debacle that has no historical precedent.The EPRDF thrives on violence and cannot exist without war. Its belligerence emanates from a deep sense of internal insecurity born of its minority status and total rejection by the populace. That is why it has been terrorizing the peoples in Ethiopia to vainly gain their submission. After massacring innocent civilians in Oromia without any offense and filming the gruesome crime, the Ethiopian regime tried to blame it on the OLF. It mowed down civilians in Sidama, Shakka-Mejengir and Gambella with impunity. It shot and killed unarmed peaceful demonstrators in the capital in broad daylight and blamed it on the opposition. It shamelessly went on to sabotage the investigation of the incident to prevent the truth from coming out and avoid its culpability.Moreover, there is no neighboring country that escaped TPLF/EPRDF's belligerence. In an undeclared war on the Sudan from 1995 to 1997 the Ethiopian regime invaded and occupied the key border towns of Kurmuk and Gizan. It repeatedly deployed its troops against Kenya causing extensive killing, abduction and looting and in the process plunging the northern region of Kenya into pandemonium. From 1998-2000 the regime also went into a senseless war with Eritrea in which over 120,000 conscripts were sacrificed.Chaos has reigned in Somalia during the last 16 years. The international community and neighboring countries have made several attempts to resolve the impasse in Somalia and end the unmitigated suffering of the people. Kenya, Yemen, Egypt and Djibouti have at various times made concerted efforts to deal with the situation in Somalia. None of these efforts succeeded in turning the condition around. As these repeated failures testify the search for the resolution of the intractable Somali problem from outside and by outsiders has not and cannot bear fruit. In fact, the outcome of all past foreign interventions, even humanitarian ones, ended up exacerbating rather than helping the situation. Such sobering experience should have cautioned the TPLF/EPRDF and its benefactors from undertaking a new futile military campaign in Somalia.Before the limbs broken by the previous Ethio-Eritrean war have healed, before the blood that flowed like a mighty river have dried up, before the villages ruined by the mayhem revived back into their vibrant life, and before families distressed by the loss of their loved ones have been able to overcome their grief, it is regrettable for the Ethiopian regime to declare another war on Eritrea. The Ethiopian regime is once again spoiling to spill more blood while dodging acceptance of the international ruling that should have put an end to the nagging conflict. As a result our youth, our future and hope, are going to perish, once again used as cannon fodder and mine sweepers. Thus this is an action that need not only be condemned but also valiantly and fiercely resisted. This is not a sane action but rather a crazy escapade of a deranged regime desperate to cling on to power by deflecting attention from its mounting troubles at home.No country takes the unprecedented and outrageous step of having its parliament declare war to deal with, by military means, a political problem between an aggrieved population and a government, which purports to rule it. The Ethiopian Parliament endorsed the regime's declaration of war on the OLF while fully cognizant that OLF is engaged in struggling against a highly repressive and dictatorial system. OLF believes the measure taken by the parliament is a crime unforgivable in history. Those in the parliament who opposed this hideous act and voted against it have commendably discharged their historical responsibility.The OLF began resisting the repressive policies of successive Ethiopian regimes long before the current forces in Somalia, on which the regime declared war, even came to the scene. The cause of the Oromo struggle is noble. Ending the repression, subjugation, and marginalization of the Oromo and charting a future founded on freedom and democracy is its cherished goal. It is anchored on respect for the right to self-determination, a right recognized by international law. The declaration of war on OLF, while fully aware that it is engaged in a political struggle to attain this just right, is thus an abominable and unforgivable crime against the Oromo people.Dear compatriots of the indomitable Oromo nation!!The Ethiopian parliament that ought to have stood for the respect of your rights so flagrantly being violated has instead openly declared war on you. This would open the doors to hell and is an ominous menace to you and all other peoples. Hence we urge you to rally from corner to corner to frustrate this war of aggression--- a war financed with your resources and staffed with your dear children. It is therefore doubly incumbent on you to defeat this unjust war to spare yourself and others the prospect of seeing thousands of lives and property devastated, the dream of the new generation for a more peaceful and dignified life smothered. This is not a case where you can afford to stay on the sidelines. It is not a danger that you can dismiss as nothing of your concern. We have to all hold hands with all the peoples in Ethiopia and the region to overcome an aggression imposed on all of us by a bloodthirsty regime that worships war and abhors peace.Finally, we appeal to the international community, governments, international organizations and all freedom and peace loving people of the world to help stop in the bud this ominous specter of devastation before it engulfs the region. We want to be on record to state that unless the dogs of war in Ethiopia are halted, the future of this already troubled region might go up in flames.Victory to the Oromo People!!Oromo Liberation FrontNovember 30, 2006

This helicopter is destroyed by ONLF

Nov 13, 2006 Reports reaching our service desk from our reporter in Qorahey zone, confirm the destruction of an Ethiopian military helicopter. This helicopter is said to have been destroyed by members of a specially trained force of the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF).The military operation that resulted in the loss of this military attack helicopter took place in Qabridahar in the early hours of Sunday night, 12/11/2006). About forty soldiers are reported killed in the same operation that resulted the loss of the helicopter This is the second attack helicopter that was destroyed by ONLF. The first helicopter was destroyed in the town of Gebo Gebo in July 18th, this year. About twenty-six high-ranking military officials including general Mulugeta, a close relative of the current Ethiopian premier, lost their life in the earlier helicopter.In a related similar commando operation carried out by specially trained ONLF fighters, the main military garrison in Dhagax Bur city was attacked.There are unconfirmed reported of many military deaths within the military garrison however there has been no confirmation from the Ethiopianmilitary.Military analysts in the horn believe that the two related commando operations carried out by ONLF show the increasing strength of the ONLF army. These analysts also believe that these military operations carried out within the Ethiopian military garissons appear planned.They add that these operations other than causing military casualties also send the message that the Ethiopian military is not safe anywhere in Ogaden.Ogaden Online News

Starbucks in storm over Ethiopian trademark bid

Business // Friday, October 26


US coffee giant Starbucks denied using heavy-handed tactics to foil a bid by Ethiopia to trademark three coffee beans, but said it wanted to work with the African nation on the issue.
.Starbucks, which extols fair trade with its suppliers in the developing world, has been thrown on the defensive by allegations from British charity Oxfam that it was instrumental in depriving Ethiopian farmers of extra income.
.In mid-August, an official at the US Patent and Trademark Office ruled in favour of a protest by the National Coffee Association (NCA), which represents US coffee roasters including Starbucks, against the trademark application.
.The NCA said the bid was bad economics and bad for Ethiopian farmers, and Starbucks said that Ethiopia would be better served by cooperating to give its coffee beans geographical designations.
."Starbucks has never filed an opposition to the Ethiopian government's trademark application, nor claimed ownership to any regional names used to describe the origin of our coffees," the chain said in a statement.
.Ethiopia had applied to trademark its most famous coffee names, Sidamo, Harar and Yirgacheffe, enabling it to control their use and allow farmers to receive a greater share of the retail price.
.But the patent office's examiner said the names had become too generic as descriptions of coffee to be trademarked. Ethiopia can appeal the decision.
.Accusing Starbucks of being behind the NCA protest, Oxfam said the US chain was denying Ethiopian producers an estimated 47 million pounds (70 million euros, 88.5 million dollars) a year.
.NCA chief executive Robert Nelson said any implication that his group had been leant on by Starbucks was "categorically false", insisting he had brought the matter to the attention of Starbucks and other US coffee companies.
.He added that the Ethiopian bid was always doomed as under US law, it is impossible to trademark a geographical region in this way.
."The Ethiopian trademark would cause economic harm to Ethiopian coffee farmers," Nelson told AFP, arguing that US coffee makers could no longer market premium brands such as Sidamo themselves.
.Starbucks said it had written to the Ethiopian government to seek cooperation on giving "robust" geographical designations to the beans, placing them on a par with Bordeaux wine and Florida oranges.
."These systems are far more effective than registering trademarks for geographically descriptive terms, which is actually contrary to general trademark law and custom," it said.
.Starbucks added that it was "committed to paying premium prices for all our coffee". In the fiscal year ended last month, it said, it paid an average of 1.28 dollars per pound of coffee, 23 percent above the average New York price.
."Our approach to coffee purchasing, investment in social development projects and microfinance initiatives in coffee-growing regions has been recognized for its leadership within the industry." — AFP
US coffee giant Starbucks denied using heavy-handed tactics to foil a bid by Ethiopia to trademark three coffee beans, but said it wanted to work with the African nation on the issue.
.Starbucks, which extols fair trade with its suppliers in the developing world, has been thrown on the defensive by allegations from British charity Oxfam that it was instrumental in depriving Ethiopian farmers of extra income.
.In mid-August, an official at the US Patent and Trademark Office ruled in favour of a protest by the National Coffee Association (NCA), which represents US coffee roasters including Starbucks, against the trademark application.
.The NCA said the bid was bad economics and bad for Ethiopian farmers, and Starbucks said that Ethiopia would be better served by cooperating to give its coffee beans geographical designations.
."Starbucks has never filed an opposition to the Ethiopian government's trademark application, nor claimed ownership to any regional names used to describe the origin of our coffees," the chain said in a statement.
.Ethiopia had applied to trademark its most famous coffee names, Sidamo, Harar and Yirgacheffe, enabling it to control their use and allow farmers to receive a greater share of the retail price.
.But the patent office's examiner said the names had become too generic as descriptions of coffee to be trademarked. Ethiopia can appeal the decision.
.Accusing Starbucks of being behind the NCA protest, Oxfam said the US chain was denying Ethiopian producers an estimated 47 million pounds (70 million euros, 88.5 million dollars) a year.
.NCA chief executive Robert Nelson said any implication that his group had been leant on by Starbucks was "categorically false", insisting he had brought the matter to the attention of Starbucks and other US coffee companies.
.He added that the Ethiopian bid was always doomed as under US law, it is impossible to trademark a geographical region in this way.
."The Ethiopian trademark would cause economic harm to Ethiopian coffee farmers," Nelson told AFP, arguing that US coffee makers could no longer market premium brands such as Sidamo themselves.
.Starbucks said it had written to the Ethiopian government to seek cooperation on giving "robust" geographical designations to the beans, placing them on a par with Bordeaux wine and Florida oranges.
."These systems are far more effective than registering trademarks for geographically descriptive terms, which is actually contrary to general trademark law and custom," it said.
.Starbucks added that it was "committed to paying premium prices for all our coffee". In the fiscal year ended last month, it said, it paid an average of 1.28 dollars per pound of coffee, 23 percent above the average New York price.
."Our approach to coffee purchasing, investment in social development projects and microfinance initiatives in coffee-growing regions has been recognized for its leadership within the industry." — AFP
US coffee giant Starbucks denied using heavy-handed tactics to foil a bid by Ethiopia to trademark three coffee beans, but said it wanted to work with the African nation on the issue.
.Starbucks, which extols fair trade with its suppliers in the developing world, has been thrown on the defensive by allegations from British charity Oxfam that it was instrumental in depriving Ethiopian farmers of extra income.
.In mid-August, an official at the US Patent and Trademark Office ruled in favour of a protest by the National Coffee Association (NCA), which represents US coffee roasters including Starbucks, against the trademark application.
.The NCA said the bid was bad economics and bad for Ethiopian farmers, and Starbucks said that Ethiopia would be better served by cooperating to give its coffee beans geographical designations.
."Starbucks has never filed an opposition to the Ethiopian government's trademark application, nor claimed ownership to any regional names used to describe the origin of our coffees," the chain said in a statement.
.Ethiopia had applied to trademark its most famous coffee names, Sidamo, Harar and Yirgacheffe, enabling it to control their use and allow farmers to receive a greater share of the retail price.
.But the patent office's examiner said the names had become too generic as descriptions of coffee to be trademarked. Ethiopia can appeal the decision.
.Accusing Starbucks of being behind the NCA protest, Oxfam said the US chain was denying Ethiopian producers an estimated 47 million pounds (70 million euros, 88.5 million dollars) a year.
.NCA chief executive Robert Nelson said any implication that his group had been leant on by Starbucks was "categorically false", insisting he had brought the matter to the attention of Starbucks and other US coffee companies.
.He added that the Ethiopian bid was always doomed as under US law, it is impossible to trademark a geographical region in this way.
."The Ethiopian trademark would cause economic harm to Ethiopian coffee farmers," Nelson told AFP, arguing that US coffee makers could no longer market premium brands such as Sidamo themselves.
.Starbucks said it had written to the Ethiopian government to seek cooperation on giving "robust" geographical designations to the beans, placing them on a par with Bordeaux wine and Florida oranges.
."These systems are far more effective than registering trademarks for geographically descriptive terms, which is actually contrary to general trademark law and custom," it said.
.Starbucks added that it was "committed to paying premium prices for all our coffee". In the fiscal year ended last month, it said, it paid an average of 1.28 dollars per pound of coffee, 23 percent above the average New York price.
."Our approach to coffee purchasing, investment in social development projects and microfinance initiatives in coffee-growing regions has been recognized for its leadership within the industry." — AFP
US coffee giant Starbucks denied using heavy-handed tactics to foil a bid by Ethiopia to trademark three coffee beans, but said it wanted to work with the African nation on the issue.
.Starbucks, which extols fair trade with its suppliers in the developing world, has been thrown on the defensive by allegations from British charity Oxfam that it was instrumental in depriving Ethiopian farmers of extra income.
.In mid-August, an official at the US Patent and Trademark Office ruled in favour of a protest by the National Coffee Association (NCA), which represents US coffee roasters including Starbucks, against the trademark application.
.The NCA said the bid was bad economics and bad for Ethiopian farmers, and Starbucks said that Ethiopia would be better served by cooperating to give its coffee beans geographical designations.
."Starbucks has never filed an opposition to the Ethiopian government's trademark application, nor claimed ownership to any regional names used to describe the origin of our coffees," the chain said in a statement.
.Ethiopia had applied to trademark its most famous coffee names, Sidamo, Harar and Yirgacheffe, enabling it to control their use and allow farmers to receive a greater share of the retail price.
.But the patent office's examiner said the names had become too generic as descriptions of coffee to be trademarked. Ethiopia can appeal the decision.
.Accusing Starbucks of being behind the NCA protest, Oxfam said the US chain was denying Ethiopian producers an estimated 47 million pounds (70 million euros, 88.5 million dollars) a year.
.NCA chief executive Robert Nelson said any implication that his group had been leant on by Starbucks was "categorically false", insisting he had brought the matter to the attention of Starbucks and other US coffee companies.
.He added that the Ethiopian bid was always doomed as under US law, it is impossible to trademark a geographical region in this way.
."The Ethiopian trademark would cause economic harm to Ethiopian coffee farmers," Nelson told AFP, arguing that US coffee makers could no longer market premium brands such as Sidamo themselves.
.Starbucks said it had written to the Ethiopian government to seek cooperation on giving "robust" geographical designations to the beans, placing them on a par with Bordeaux wine and Florida oranges.
."These systems are far more effective than registering trademarks for geographically descriptive terms, which is actually contrary to general trademark law and custom," it said.
.Starbucks added that it was "committed to paying premium prices for all our coffee". In the fiscal year ended last month, it said, it paid an average of 1.28 dollars per pound of coffee, 23 percent above the average New York price.
."Our approach to coffee purchasing, investment in social development projects and microfinance initiatives in coffee-growing regions has been recognized for its leadership within the industry." — AFP

…..BREAKING NEWS #2….is coming your way. It the Somalis are saying, “have captured an Ethiopian officer and he is now being held under guard in one of our compounds. They added that “the Ethiopian soldier would be shown to the media in the coming days.” Here are the Weyane to drop like flies in Somalia too. Take a look at Weyane being hunted all over Ethiopia. The EPPF in Gondar, Gojam, and Wollo; the Beshangul in the West, OLF all over Oromia, the ONLF in Ogaden, the Afar Liberation Front in the East, the Sidama Liberation front in the south (9 liberation fronts in all) are hunting the Weyane. And now the Weyane are to drop like flies in Somalia. By the way, Meles Zenawi should have asked Mengistu Hailemariam how 10,000 Somalis chased 100,000 Ethiopian soldiers all the way from Jijiga to Deredawa and Mengistu has to call the Soviets to stop the Somalis. In any case, Eritrea, be patient, just sit on the side line and let the Ethiopians and the Somalis finish the Weyane

NEW YORK

NEW YORK (Reuters) - At least two people were killed when a small aircraft crashed into a 52-story building on Manhattan's Upper East Side on Wednesday in what appeared to be an accident, officials said.
The four-seat plane was owned by Yankees baseball pitcher Cory Lidle, sources at the New York police department told Reuters. The FAA confirmed the plane was owned by Lidle, 34. CNN said the pilot of the plane was Lidle and he was believed to have been killed.
U.S. and New York officials said they had no reason to believe the crash, which occurred in overcast weather, was relateditorial/el'foo','allowscriptaccess','alwa A New York police department spokeswoman said the crash killed two people and possibly more.
Military fighter jets patrolled several U.S. cities as a precaution, the North American Aerospace Defense Command said.
"NORAD fighters are airborne over numerous cities. They are airborne now as a prudent measure," said NORAD spokeswoman Kyle Combs. She did not say which cities were being patrolled, or how many, but added the fighters were sent up right after the plane crashed into the building.
On Wall Street, U.S. stocks extended losses but quickly recovered once it became clear the crash was not an attack similar to the hijacked plane attacks of September 11, 2001.
"We have no reason to believe at this point that it is terrorist related," said New York City Police Chief Michael Collins. Continued...

Jihad against Ethiopia

Somali Islamists declare 'jihad' against Ethiopia Mon Oct 9, 2006 1:33 PM GMTMOGADISHU (Reuters) - Somalia's powerful Islamists on Monday declared holy war against Horn of Africa rival Ethiopia, which they accused of invading Somalia to prop up the shaky interim government."Starting from today, we have declared jihad against Ethiopia," Islamist leader Sheikh Sharif Ahmed told a news conference, while wearing combat fatigues and clutching an AK-47 assault rifle.Ahmed, usually viewed as a more moderate voice among the Islamists who took Mogadishu in June and now control much of Somalia's south, appeared angry as he addressed reporters."Heavily armed Ethiopian troops have invaded Somalia. They have captured Buur Hakaba. History shows that Somalis always win when they are attacked from outside," he said.The Islamists and residents of Buur Hakaba, about 30 km (20 miles) from the interim government's base in Baidoa, said Ethiopian troops accompanied government fighters who took the town over early on Monday."Somalis in and outside the country are obliged to defend their country and their religion. You should be ready for an order and execute it as you will be told," Ahmed said.

Ethiopian PM M Z

Les Neuhaus
Addis Ababa - Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said on Saturday that the threat of war with neighbouring Eritrea over their disputed border was fading.
"As time passes the risk of war is diminishing not increasing," Meles told journalists at a news conference in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa.
The United Nations security council extended the mandate of peacekeepers in Eritrea and Ethiopia by four months on Friday, but threatened to overhaul the mission if the two sides didn't make progress toward demarcating their border.
Ethiopia has refused to implement an international commission's April 2002 ruling that awarded the key town of Badme to Eritrea.
Eritrea, meanwhile, has expelled and arrested UN staff and imposed restrictions on patrols of the border area.
Meles said Ethiopia had accepted the ruling but did not say whether his country would implement it, which was supposed to be "final and binding".
Border never agreed to
The security council has cut the number of peacekeepers deployed in the two countries from 3 500 to 2 300 in frustration over the lack of progress.
Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a 30-year guerrilla war, but a border was never agreed to.
Violence erupted again in 1998 and ended two years later. Ttens of thousands of people were killed.
Under the 2000 peace agreement, both countries agreed to abide by an independent commission's ruling on the position of the disputed 1 000km border, while UN troops patrolled a 25km buffer zone between the two countries.
Meanwhile, Meles told journalists that if Somalia's Islamic courts attacked that country's virtually powerless government it would be cause for concern for Ethiopia and the international community at large.
Witnesses say Ethiopian troops are already in Somalia, but the Ethiopian government has denied this.

Fighting

Baidoa - Somalia's Islamic fighters have seized control of a strategic village near the Ethiopian border, the group said on Saturday.Fighters loyal to the radical Union of Islamic Courts group routed pro-government militia from the village of Jawill, some 15km from the Ethiopian border. The only roads between Ethiopia and central Somalia pass through the village."The militiamen who controlled this village had a good relationship with Ethiopia so we decided they were an obstacle to our control in the region," said Hassan Abdirahman, whose Islamic fighters carried out the operation. "Some 200 fighters carried out the attack, he said.Local resident Abdi Risaq told The Associated Press by telephone that three pro-government militiamen and one fighter with the Union of Islamic Courts were killed during Friday's gunbattle for the village.

look I did send my troops to Somaila

Somalia's Islamic Courts have today said that large number of Ethiopian troops entered Somalia.
In a press conference held in Mogadishu, the Islamic Courts Security Council head Sheik Yusuf Indho-adde reiterated that unverified number of Ethiopian troops came in Somalia.
Indho-adde said it's an aggression of Ethiopia that is accustomed to coming in and out of Somalia when it desires.
"We are not going to invade a neighboring country. We are asking the world to keep a breast of Ethiopia's illegal movement in Somalia", said Indho-adde, inciting the UN and Arab League to try to halt Ethiopia's intervention in Somalia.
Union of Islamic Courts took over the last port town of Kismayu, where demonstrations against them took place.
The Islamists are reported to fire shots after the demonstration turned out violent.
Demonstrators set tires a blaze chanting anti-Islamist slogans.
At least two persons are reported killed in the riot.
Islamists' security council head mentioned about 50-100 Ethiopian armored vehicles had entered Somalia from Gedo region, southern Somalia, where Somalia borders Ethiopia, adding the Ethiopian troops went straight to Baidoa, the temporary base for Somalia's virtually shaky government to shield interim president Abdulahi Yusuf's government.
Reliable sources in Bardalle district of Bay region told Shabelle radio in Mogadishu that about 50 Ethiopian battlewagons had arrived in Baidoa.
The Islamic Courts first assistant chairperson Abdirahman Jinikow vowed the Islamists would fight Ethiopia if it did not renounce entering Somalia.

BREAKIG NEWS

BREAKING NEWS of the day on the fall of Weyane has it that, a “shooting broke out between Ethiopian soldiers in western Oromia”. News reaching from the region “confirmed that fierce gun battle occurred between soldiers of Oromo origin and TPLF soldiers over the last weekend in the vicinity of Naqamtee, western Oromia. The shooting incidence happened when six Oromo soldiers discovered a location where TPLF soldiers were torturing five other Oromo soldiers brought from border areas. Angered by the actions of the TPLF soldiers, the Oromo soldiers instantly opened fire on TPLF soldiers. After a fierce gun battle the six Oromo soldiers left the city unharmed and their whereabouts is unknown yet. In related news the TPLF government brought new military force to Geedo, in central Oromia, to replace the small contingent previously stationed in Geedoo. Prompted by this incidence several Oromo nationalists are urging Oromo soldiers to organize them selves

Deki Halal Meriet…..Another one! Another BREAKING NEWS of the day on the fall of Weyane has it that, a “shooting broke out between Ethiopian soldiers in western Oromia”. News reaching from the region “confirmed that fierce gun battle occurred between soldiers of Oromo origin and TPLF soldiers over the last weekend in the vicinity of Naqamtee, western Oromia. The shooting incidence happened when six Oromo soldiers discovered a location where TPLF soldiers were torturing five other Oromo soldiers brought from border areas. Angered by the actions of the TPLF soldiers, the Oromo soldiers instantly opened fire on TPLF soldiers. After a fierce gun battle the six Oromo soldiers left the city unharmed and their whereabouts is unknown yet. In related news the TPLF government brought new military force to Geedo, in central Oromia, to replace the small contingent previously stationed in Geedoo. Prompted by this incidence several Oromo nationalists are urging Oromo soldiers to organize them selves

hoo my god agian

OLF/WBO/you win

News
Statement by Brigadier General Hailu Gonfa and Colonel Gemechu Ayana
Until a few days ago, we were officers in the Ethiopian army sworn to protect the country’s laws and diverse people from any threats. To our deepest dismay, we have come to the conclusion that the greatest threat to Ethiopia and the people emanates not from elsewhere but from the regime on power. Over the last years, the armed forces have been systematically reduced to protecting the narrow interest of a small clique determined to cling to power at all costs. Under the circumstances the choices confronting us are: Either to remain with the same oppressive machinery or wait and see hoping against hope that things would improve on their own or through a miracle. We have waited too long; we cannot wait any longer.
Despite the calls by opposition groups to peacefully deal with the dire situation, EPRDF is showing no inclination whatsoever to address the country’s mounting social, economic and political problems. Instead, it is intensifying repression. Even though this repressive machinery did not spare any people in the country, the magnitude and scale of repression, harassment and intimidation committed against Oromo people has no comparison. Moreover, it is considering new military adventures in the region that would not serve the legitimate interests of all affected --and could plunge the region into chaos .
Throughout the years we served this regime, we were hoping things would improve over time and expected the regime would also resolve political conflicts peacefully and truly democratize the country where political power emanates from the will of the people not from force. Now we have found this to be an empty promise. We are particularly elated that the Alliance for Freedom and Democracy (AFD) has offered a hope not only to eliminate the specter of more mayhem but also chart a better future through a process of dialogue involving all stakeholders in the search for comprehensive solutions.
We regret that the regime has flagrantly, and without serious consideration, rejected this offer of goodwill and continued on its path of destruction. We cannot therefore continue to defend a minority and overwhelmingly rejected regime, sadly, that is committing untold atrocities against our own people.
It is time for us to take side in the fight between tyranny and liberty. Accordingly, we have dissociated ourselves from TPLF/EPRDF and joined the liberation struggle of our people gripped by the claws of tyranny. We have therefore joined the Oromo Liberation Front that is a member of the Alliance for Freedom and Democracy (AFD) to realize the age-old dream of all peoples for freedom and democracy.
To the Ethiopian Armed Forces
The incumbent regime has been fooling us all by falsely extolling its commitment to freedom, democracy and speedy economic development. This commitment has been put to test over the last 15 years. The tyrannical behavior of the regime demonstrates that this pledge runs skin deep and does not show any sign of change, which makes all our efforts and sacrifices in vain. We believe as long as the regime continues to defy the will of the people, our problems would multiply. That is why it has to be compelled to desist from its destructive path or be removed. We therefore call on you to follow our example and join the just and popular struggle.
To the international community
The minority Ethiopian regime does not have the capacity or the legitimacy to continue to rule the country. The regime, whose dismal 15 year tenure is more than enough to gauge its goodwill, needs to be pressed rather than appeased to submit to the call for dialogue. We strongly urge you to reconsider your support for it as it does not any more serve our common strategic interests.

Brigadier General Hailu Gonfa
Colonel Gamachu AyanaSeptember 14, 2006

Opinions published on News and Views section of this site are those of the authors and not necessarily that of OLF.
Copyright ©2005 ABO/OLF All Rights Reserved mailto:olfinfodesk@earthlink.net

ALERT

ALERT! We have confirmed that the brutal Ethiopian dictator, Meles Zenawi will be addressing the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, September 22, 2006. All Ethiopians, Ethiopian-Americans, Political and civic organizations are urged to cooperate for a big protest rally, and if possible to depose the tyrant in New York. Please stay tuned for additional details and coordination.

70 Diplomats defected

Partial List of defected Diplomats and Support Staff MembersThese diplomats and staff members from various Ethiopian Embassies and Consular Offices left their job over the last three months. Some of these diplomats were dismissed from their posts accused of being members and/or supporters of opposition forces. Some others were ordered to report to the Head Office against a background of security reports collected on them by TPLF agents at the Embassies. All of them are awaiting charges of “genocide, desertion…” and other fictitious crimes. The total number of diplomats who left the regime after the May 2005 election is more than twice than the number in this list, which is believed to constitute nearly 75 % of the diplomatic staff. Name - Position - Embassy/Post1. Yohanes Genda - Ambassador - Abuja2. Fleshes Adugna Wordofa - Ambassador - London3. Seifesillassie Lemma Kidane - Minister - New York4. Dr. Waktasu Negere Yadeta - Minster ounselor - Moscow5. Altaye Alaro Alambo - Counselor - Vienna6. Mesfin Endrias H/Gebriel - Counselor - Washington7. Berhane G/Hiwot Genber - Counselor - Brussels8. Teshome Fiseha Gutema - Counselor - Tokyo9. Tesfaye Dessalegn Abebe - 1st Secretary - Dubai10. Endalkachew Liben Made - 1st Secretary - Beijing11. Mesfin Yimam Kinfu - 1st Secretary - Cairo12. Tsegaye Demeke Abebe - 1st Secretary - The Hague13. Binyam Kedir Abdu - 1st Secretary - Kuwait14. Tsegaye Bekele Kato - 1st Secretary - London15. Birhanemeskel Abebe Segni - 1st Secretary - New York16. Wegene Assefa Tessema - 1st Secretary - new York17. Berhanu Beyene Hagos - 1st Secretary - Sana’a18. Tilahun W/Simon - 1st Secretary - Washington19. Rahel Kumala Geragn - 2nd Secretary - New York20. Genet Abebe Sesie - 2nd Secretary - The Hague21. Kifle Getachew Adela - 2nd Secretary - Vienna22. Gultie Berhanu Nigatu - 2nd Secretary - Stockholm23. Tsegaye Edao Gelgalo - 3d Secretary - Washington24. Aster Solomon Gesesse - 3d Secretary - Abuja25. Zelalem Dawit Erene - 3d Secretary - Beirut26. Fetene Tefera Mamo - 3d Secretary - Djibouti27. Wagaye Berhanu Engdashet - 3rd Secretary - London28. Appolo Guale - Attaché - Abidjan29. Tamirat Damte Mekuria - Attaché - Beirut30. Fetene - Attaché - Djibouti31. Mettaalem Sinishaw Bitew - Attaché - Dakar32. Getachew Mekonnen Agonafir - Attaché - Jeddah33. Biruk Ketema Yadetie - Attaché - Hargessa34. Dejene Chiko - Attaché - Washington35. Firehiwot Belachew - Attaché - New York36. Henock Megistu - Attaché - Head Office37. Girma Belayneh G/Michael - Attaché Head Office38. Minyahil - n/a - n/a39. Tizita Kassa - Attaché - Jeddah40. Tamirat Alawi Abdella - Attaché - New York41. Tirsit Tekka Anchebi - Attaché - Brussels42. Solomon Assefa Bogale - Attaché - Pretoria43. Berhanu Gizachew - Attaché - Nairobi44. Mohamed Mustafa Yassin - Translator - Kuwait45. Hana Kassa - Secretary - Washington46. Meseret Aklilu - Secretary - Washington47. Hana Hailu - Secretary - New York48. Tigist Lemecha - Secretary - New York49. Saba Mulugeta - Secretary - Vienna50. Lubaba Idris - Secretary - The Hague51. Azeb Sileshi - secretary - The Hague52. Liyouwork Debebe - Secretary - Kuwait53. Teklekiros Tefera - Driver - New York54. Wosen - Driver - New York55. Fikru Getachew - Driver - The Hague56. Mohammed Seid - Driver - The Hague57. Jameo Mehammed - Guard - Kuwait58. Wondwosen T/Mariam - Cock - Kuwait59. Tarikua - Cleaner - Kuwait
60. Eyerusalem Bekele -Secretary - India61. Dr Biruk Hailu - Minister - France62. Ato Gizachew Bizuayehu - counselor - France63. Ambassador Hanfare Alimirah - Charge D’Affaires - Kuwait64. Abrha Girmay - Cairo65. Berhanu Gizaw - Yemen

Ana malee

school in Ethiopa

Host: 150.167.26.103Saturday September 09, 2006 20:10:25Mike[B]Melkias Adhanom, here is the Ethiopian higher education and still with no Ethiopian faculty and that is a shame. But that is what you get from Weyane. Weyane could claim 23 university but what you have is campuses with no faculty and students. Can you imagine a country that open her first university 60 years ago is still waiting for 800 professors from Nigeria to teach this year. Ask the Ethiopians and they can tell you the Ethiopian colleges and university are just “empty” campuses. Talk about elementary schools. Have you asked how many elementary schools in Ethiopia are now closed due to lack of teachers? Do not forget it the Swedish who built all Ethiopian rural schools also. Ask the Oromo and ask the Amhara for the number of elementary schools that have been closed. Then again, you cannot help; you can only be Wedi Mai Telamit on the flesh or at best one of Eritrean Hasus. Trust me, Ethiopia as we know it has gone to 30 years back in every thing-economically and educationally

Six Ethiopian soldiers arrive in Eritrea

Six Ethiopian soldiers arrive in Eritrea
Asmara, 7 September 2006 - Six Ethiopian soldiers who arrived here opposing the racist policy of the TPLF regime disclosed that at a time when resistance is gaining momentum within the Army, the regime is resorting to increased atrocities by imprisoning members of different ethnic groups.They noted that many Ethiopian soldiers are defecting to different opposition organizations and fleeing to neighboring countries opposing the brutal and harsh measures the TPLF regime is taking against members of the Army.The soldiers who arrived in Eritrea are Neguse Araya Tsadik and Gebreal Abraha Sebhat, both Tigrayans, Mohammed Adem Abdu from the Somali ethnic group, Tedros Zeleke Kasahun and Siyum Tesfayu Freisa, both of them Oromos, and Samsom Alemayehu who came from Birsheleko Training Camp.
Source: www.hornofafrica.de

Ethiopia: We stopped rebel hit squad/09/08/06

Ethiopia said it has arrested nine members of a rebel hit squad that was planning to assassinate government leaders, state media reported on Friday.
The suspects were working for the rebel Oromo Liberation Front, which has been fighting for greater autonomy in southern Ethiopia, the National Intelligence and Security Service said.
The Oromo make up a third of Ethiopia's 75-million people, and have been the centre of dissent against the ruling Ethiopian Peoples' Revolutionary Democratic Front.
Merera Gudina, head of the Oromo National Congress, said he was sceptical of the government's claims. On Monday, he said the Ethiopian government had detained without charge more than 250 members of the Oromo ethnic group. The latest arrests came Thursday.
"The problem is that no one has been brought into court yet, so the public has not been able to see them with their own eyes," Merera said.
"If we can't see them defending themselves in a court of law, how can we know what the truth is?"
In early August, an Ethiopian army officer of Oromo descent, Brigadier General Kemal Geltu, defected to traditional enemy Eritrea with more than 100 Ethiopian troops under his command. He said he was unhappy with the Ethiopian government's treatment of the Oromo.

TEACHERS, STUDENTS, POLITICIANS

TEACHERS, STUDENTS, POLITICIANS
Ethiopia arrests over 250 members of Oromo ethnic group
Posted: 05.09.2006 I Source : eitb24
The Oromo make up a third of Ethiopia's 75 million people.The Ethiopian government has detained without charge more than 250 members of the Oromo ethnic group, including teachers, high school students and politicians, Oromo officials said Monday.The Oromo make up a third of Ethiopia's 75 million people, and it has been the centre of dissent against the ruling Ethiopian Peoples' Revolutionary Democratic Front."The government claims that there are some people in the area conducting illegal activity,'' Merera Gudina, head of the Oromo National Congress, told The Associated Press.Officials at Ethiopia's Ministry of Information declined to comment.Human rights group Amnesty International said Monday it feared the detainees were taken into custody last week "because they are members of the Oromo ethnic group.''In early August, an Ethiopian army officer of Oromo descent, Brig. Gen. Kemal Geltu, defected to traditional enemy Eritrea with more than 100 Ethiopian troops under his command. He said he was unhappy with the Ethiopian government's treatment of the Oromo.There was no indication that those arrested were members of the Oromo Liberation Front, an insurgent group that has been fighting for greater autonomy in southern Ethiopia."These people are not connected to the OLF,'' Merera said.

Malsan malaqa oromia fudhatee ceehooti jiraa

Wayane house of cards is coming down, time to go home

Monday the 4th of September, 2006
Ogaden: Latest Ethiopian Military Defections
Sept 03, 2006 Reports from Fiiq confirm the defection of thirty-four members of the Ethiopian military stationed in and around Fiiq. The latest defections took place on September 1st, 2006.Ogaden Online and Radio Xoriyo reporters in Nogob province indicate that the defecting members escaped with all their military gear some of which were hand-held anti-tank weapons.The latest defection follows that of over thirty soldiers who deserted their positions at the end of August. Latest reports indicate that Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) army welcomed the new defections. Many of the defecting soldiers are now reported to be with ONLF.Reliable sources that requested anonymity said that the latest defections have created a state of apprehension within the Ethiopian military stationed in Fiiq. The same sources add that it is possible the head of the Ethiopian military in Fiiq may himself be contemplating defection but he is said to be unsure how ONLF will treat him.Ogaden Online News

Wayane house of cards is coming down,

[A]Deki Halal Meriet, the Weyane house of cards is coming tumbling down. In addition to the 100 or so Weyane diplomats who jumped the sinking Weyane ship, more defection of diplomats continues. Repot has it, “Dr Biruk Hailu, minister plenipotentiary, from Ethiopian embassy in Paris &Ato Gizachew Bizuayehu, counselor, have deserted the Meles regime by joining the other 59 or more defected diplomats within the last three months alone. More diplomats are believed to be determined to detach themselves from the rouge, racist Tigrean regime of Fascist Meles & his cohorts”. Also “the wife of the good-for-nothing so-called Ambassador of Ethiopia to Germany zombie Kassahun Ayele is busy finishing up her asylum case after consultation with her husband during his brief stay in USA this summer”. Also, “there is unconfirmed rumor circulating in DC concerning the wife of Nebiyou Dagne who applied for asylum here in USA. Nebiyou Dagne is a political counselor who is insidiously "working" for the opposition

The oromo a joyful song

Post details: The Oromo sing a joyful song Minnesota Public Radio
08/31/06
03:44:32 pm, Categories: Ethiopia, Culture and Society, Immigration, 726 words
The Oromo sing a joyful song Minnesota Public Radio

The Oromo sing a joyful songby Chris Roberts, Minnesota Public RadioAugust 31, 2006
The Oromo sing a joyful song (feature audio)
Read original story on Minnesota Public Radio
After fleeing Ethiopia to escape persecution, more Oromo people have landed in Minnesota than any other place in the world. The music they've brought with them pulsates with joy.
St. Paul, Minn. — At a large Oromo wedding on the east side of St. Paul, singer Mohammed Sheka, playing his pre-programmed electronic keyboard, has dozens of revelers right where he wants them. They're hopping in unison to one of his songs, which they all seem to know.Oromo Lutherans gather every Sunday at Our Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. They sing their own unique brand of Lutheran hymns. (MPR Photo/Chris Roberts)
Sheka's life is typical for many Oromo refugees. Back in Oromia, he was a popular performer with several CDs. Then, the Ethiopian government clamped down.
"I was in prison for two years in Ethiopia, because my first CD and the second -- all of my CDs -- they have a song for freedom," says Sheka.
Like many who hope Oromia will become a country in its own right, Sheka fled to Nairobi and then to Minneapolis. He now works nine hours a day doing deliveries. He sings on the side, and is recording another CD to sell back home. Ask him to describe the Oromo sound and he'll say there are many.
"Oromo people, we have 14 states. We have the same thing, about 14 cultural musics, a different kind of music and a different kind of rhythm," says Sheka.
And Sheka says he's comfortable in every style.
One distinctive brand of Oromo music can be heard every Sunday morning at Our Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.
The entire congregation is on its feet as a minister, her eyes closed and hands in the air, passionately preaches salvation.
The keyboard player begins an Oromo Lutheran hymn, and the sanctuary takes on the air of a revival. The music is bouncy and jubilant, the melodies soar. Nearly everyone is singing and swaying.
All this lively worship makes the traditional Scandinavian Lutheran service seem even more staid and subdued. Yet, Scandinavians can take some credit for Oromo faith. Eight percent of the Oromo are Lutherans because of the influence of Scandinavian missionaries.
Allison Adrian is a budding ethnomusicologist at the Univesity of Minnesota. Adrian says the joyfulness in Oromo Lutheran music contradicts the tragic situation the Oromo find themselves in.
"We have people here worshipping whose families -- they're separated. They might not know where some of their family is in Oromia," says Adrian. "But yet, they're just so absolutely happy to be free here, to be free to use their own language, to be free to have cultural events, to be free to be Oromo here in the Twin Cities, and I think that really comes through in their music."
Traditionally, Oromo music incorporates a variety of instruments. There's the krar, which is in the lute family, a one-string fiddle called the masenqo and frame drums which are played with the hands. But there are so few skilled players in America and Canada that Oromo musicians, like their Somali counterparts, are opting for the electronic keyboard.
While the instrumentation has gotten a technological makeover, Allison Adrian says the music still expresses a yearning for home.
"A lot of themes in their music have to do with feelings about their homeland, nostalgia about Oromia, wanting to go back but not being able to," says Adrian. "I feel like that kind of unifies Oromo music across styles and genres."
Adrian says Oromo Lutherans aren't necessarily evangelical Christians, but they are trying to set an example.
"Some of them feel as if they're here to show a lot of Americans their faith."
Adrian says upon arriving in the U.S., many of the Oromo expected to find a devoutly Christian nation. When they saw that wasn't the case, Adrian says some decided it was their calling to make Americans understand how lucky they are to speak their own language, live in relative safety and express their own faith.

More state police

Thursday the 31st of August, 2006
Ethiopia: More State Police and Militia defections
Aug 31, 2006 Ogaden Online and Radio Xoriyo reporter in Ogaden confirms the defection of more police officers from the so-called local state administration. The latest one to defect is one Mr. Abdullahi Abdi Sahal who used to be a high-ranking member of local police force.It is reported that the reason given for this defection is that the former police officer could not tolerate the injustices and extra judicial killings being perpetrated by the Tigrey led militia forces throughout Ogaden. There was another man who defected with Mr. Abdullahi whose name has not been released yet.In related news, it is reported five more militia members have defected to ONLF in the town of DHuure. Local sources indicate that the mass defections of both police and militia forces are necessitated by a bubbling mutiny within the Ethiopian forces deployed in Ogaden.Ogaden Online News

Military Defections Continue in Ogaden
Aug 31, 2006 Reports reaching our service desk from the town of Bilcile confirm the defection of up to twenty-eight soldiers from the Ethiopian military stationed there. Reports add that the soldiers who left their positions escaped with all their military gear.Up to now the movement and whereabouts of these twenty-eight soldiers are unknown. Unconfirmed reports indicate that these defecting military personnel have communicated a request for a safe passage with ONLF. We are monitoring this situation and will be reporting further in our future reports.Ogaden Online News

Meles Zenawi in Kenya August 29 2006
Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki (R) and Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi (2nd R) watch traditional dancers perform at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport August 29, 2006. Meles was on a one-day official visit to Kenya. FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY REUTERS/Presidential Press Service/Handout (KENYA)

Post details: Two OLF rebels are jailed for 52 years over arms

Two OLF rebels are jailed for 52 years over arms
By Adow Jubat
Two Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) members have been sentenced to 52 years in prison by a Moyale court.
The rebels were found guilty of being in possession of two AK-47 rifles, 139 rounds of ammunition and two hand grenades.
They were arrested on August 23 at Kate sub-location in Moyale Central division in the ongoing Kenya-Ethiopia joint military operation to contain the rebel movement.
One rebel, Nura Denga Jarso, was found with a AK47 rifle, two grenades and 113 rounds of ammunition.
He confessed before Senior Resident Magistrate, Mr James Nduna, that he was recruited into OLF in May last year, with the promise of a Sh5,000 monthly salary.
In mitigation, Jarso said he had joined the rebel group since he had no source of income to provide for his family.
But the magistrate sentenced him to 31 years for the four counts he had been charged with.
His co-accused, Kalicha Molu, was convicted of three counts: being in possession of a rifle, 26 rounds of ammunition, and being in the country illegally.
The magistrate handed him an 11-year sentence.
The suspects were convicted on their own guilty pleas.
The prosecutor, Inspector Mohammed Noor, earlier told the court that the offences threatened security, and called for severe punishment for the rebels.
But Molu and Jarso pleaded for leniency, saying they were married with children in Ethiopia and were the sole bread winners.
Delivering his judgement, the magistrate concurred with the prosecution that the offences were serious, and required a deterrent sentence.
Source: The Standard

It should be recalled that some people aired their opinions regarding the tour of Minase W/Giorgis in the Americas and Europe. I am sure you all also heard his interview with ETV about the meetings they had with "Oromo Nationals" in the Americas and Europe. Moreover, the press release emphasized that Oromo nationals and elites agreed to work with the PDO organization for alleged "Misomaa or development". One of those elites being a "Garachoo" by name Dr Mohammed Bedasso who is nominated to be the president of Adama University in two weeks. I met this bastard this summer in minnesota at a community picnic where he challenged a group of youth for selling a fund-raising poster that had the pictures of Oromo Martrys. I also heard that he was one of the founding members of OPLF before he joined OPDO this year. It is a timely call that we reveal his true identity to the Oromo nation. I heard his resume reads "Professor for ten years in American University" while in reality he was only assistant researcher at the University of Minnesota.
_________________Today, more than ever before, Oromos suffer brutal political, social, and economic suppression under the Meles regime. Qabsoon hanga Bilisummatti Cichaa hin laafane Ijarachuu qabna!

oromo Army general

An Ethiopian Army general says he has defected to join the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), a rebel group backed by neighbouring Eritrea.
Brig Gen Kemal Geltu told the BBC he had crossed the border into Eritrea with more than 100 soldiers.
He said would fight the Ethiopian government because force was the only language it understood.
He said his hopes of peace had been dashed after last year's turmoil that followed disputed elections.
Gen Kemal previously commanded Ethiopia's 18th army division.
"Last year's experience is war, not peace. Our hopes were dashed and that's why we went out" Brig Gen Kemal Geltu
Shooting is reported to have broken out as he crossed the frontier, during which two soldiers were killed. Reliable sources say he was accompanied by a colonel and 150 troops.
"It's a big force in hundreds. I don't want to mention the number. It will continue, I can confirm this. There are other soldiers in other areas in big numbers," he told the BBC's Focus on Africa programme through a translator.
Gen Kemal, who was speaking from Eritrea's capital, Asmara, said his intention was not "to give [military] secrets to the Eritrean government".
'Pure lies'
Ethiopian television said Gen Kemal had asked for further promotion soon after being promoted to the rank of brigadier general, but after this was rejected in engaged in "divisive activities".
"Although his colleagues repeatedly tried to correct the commander from his anti-government and inappropriate activities, the commander was not willing to change," the television report said.
But the general said reports that he feared military reforms were "lies, pure lies".
"Our first hope was to bring about a change in Ethiopia to bring about peace and for the peoples to live in equality, including the Oromo people, but the last year's experience is war, not peace. Our hopes were dashed and that's why we went out," he said.
Related LinkEthiopian troops defect to Eritrea
"The language they (the Ethiopian government) understand is force and we're going to challenge them by force."
The OLF which was at first a secessionist movement says it is fighting for more rights for the Oromo people in Ethiopia.
The Oromo are the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, comprising about half of its 70m people.
Demonstrations after Prime Minister Meles Zenawi was re-elected in May 2005 led to a crackdown on many Oromo and other opposition organisations.
Ethiopia and Eritrea ended a border war in 2002, but Ethiopia has not withdrawn troops from the town of Badme which arbitrators awarded to Eritrea, and tensions between the two countries remain high.
Story from BBC NEWS:http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/africa/4779189.stm
Published: 2006/08/10 17:05:34 GMT