Ethiopia: Liberation Without Domination - Ethiopia's Opposition Alliance and the Right to Decide

What the report says

Addis Standard, in an opinion piece published on 27 October 2026, discusses the Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival (EPFAS), an opposition alignment announced on 20 September 2026. The alliance was said to include the Oromo Liberation Front–Oromo Liberation Army (OLF-OLA), the Amhara Fano National Movement, and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). According to the article, a statement linked to the OLF-OLA proposed an inclusive temporary government, interim rules, and public discussion about Ethiopia’s political future.

The author argues that the main question is not simply whether armed or political groups can cooperate, but who has the authority to make decisions on behalf of the public. The piece says that joining an alliance, negotiating a ceasefire, or proposing a transitional setup does not automatically grant the power to decide constitutional questions such as a federation, a negotiated political arrangement, or independence. It emphasizes that separate authorization is needed from movement members, alliance partners, and the wider population affected by the outcome.

The article also notes that public reporting reviewed by the author showed disputed participation and disagreement around EPFAS. It cites reactions from advocacy and political figures who either rejected the alliance or called for stronger guarantees on civilian protection and accountability. The piece says these comments do not establish broader public opinion among Oromo, Amhara, Tigrayan, or other communities.

More broadly, the author frames the issue through ideas of non-domination and dialogue, arguing that liberation efforts should avoid reproducing unchecked power. The article says public criticism, consultation, and clear limits on delegated authority are necessary if an opposition alliance is to claim legitimacy during a transition.