Defection of Two Soldiers to Oromo Liberation Army Highlights Growing Discontent within Ethiopian Imperial Forces
Published June 19, 2025, 9:02 p.m. by FNN
On June 19, 2025, two soldiers from the Ethiopian Imperial Forces defected to the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) in the Galana district of Guji zone, in the southern part of the country. The Ethiopian Imperial regime has been accused of forcibly conscripting Oromo youths into its ranks, training them for warfare, often disregarding the security of its citizens in favor of maintaining its rule. However, a growing number of these individuals are now beginning to understand the difference between their Oromo and Ethiopian identities, leading them to abandon the regime and surrender themselves to the OLA.
The Two Defectors: A Closer Look
The defectors, who hail from the "Ejersa Melgano" region within the Galana district of Guji province, brought with them two AKM rifles and their military equipment when they surrendered to the OLA. Expressing immense satisfaction with the warm reception they received from the OLA, the former soldiers claimed that they were forced to join the Imperial Army against their will, coerced under the threat of weaponry, and were sent to battlefronts from their civilian jobs.
Seeking Forgiveness and a Call to Comrades
The defectors sought forgiveness for the hostile actions they had committed against their own people due to the regime's manipulation against the Oromo community, which had incited discord among them. They sent a message to their comrades still within the enemy ranks, stating that the time has come to join the people's struggle. They emphasized that liberation from the shackles of subjugation can be achieved, and such liberation cannot be attained through collusion with outsiders. They asserted that it is now the duty of all Oromos to join the liberation struggle.
Broader Implications
This event underscores the continued struggle for independence by the Oromo people and the increasing disillusionment of Imperial Forces soldiers with the Ethiopian regime. The defection of these soldiers to the OLA signifies a shift in allegiances and could potentially impact the dynamics of the ongoing conflict. As the struggle continues, the international community will be watching closely to see how this situation evolves. This development is a stark reminder of the complexities of the conflict in Ethiopia and the deep-seated tensions that continue to shape the political landscape. It also highlights the growing divide between those who are forced to fight for the regime and those who are choosing to join the Oromo liberation struggle. In the face of these challenges, the Oromo people continue to demonstrate resilience and determination in their quest for self-determination and freedom. The defection of the two soldiers to the OLA is a testament to this enduring spirit and a call to the international community to pay closer attention to the human rights issues unfolding in the region.
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