By Andinet Alemu
So-called Field Marshal Birhanu Jula was heard openly stating in the media, referring to the Tigray region leaders and TPLF members: “If you want to go – just go. Don’t fight with us.” Can the head of the military really say such words—essentially granting permission to separate? Isn’t it the primary role of the army to defend the sovereignty and unity of the country? How is it possible that the top military commander publicly expresses his frustration in such an undisciplined manner—lacking the composure, character, and statesmanship expected of someone in his position? How can he so casually utter political statements without careful thought?
Can you imagine the Army Chief of the United States publicly declaring: “Hey California, if you want to secede, just go peacefully. We won’t stop you. We won’t fight.” Or the Army Chief of China saying: “If any province wants to leave, just go. Separate yourselves from this mighty nation.” Not even the military leader of a fragile state would utter such irresponsible and careless words. In any nation, such a person would be immediately dismissed from office—for being unfit to serve in such a critical national role.
These are some of the solemn responsibilities of an Army Chief: (i) To safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity through strategic military leadership. (ii) To coordinate defense efforts during national crises, preserving the stability and unity of the state. (iii) To uphold the constitution and ensure the military remains apolitical and professional—an essential pillar of democratic integrity. Sadly, Birhanu Jula has demonstrated neither understanding nor reverence for these fundamental duties. His actions and words reflect a blatant disregard for the sacred responsibility entrusted to an Army Chief—to uphold the unity, security, and dignity of the nation. He has shown no real understanding of what it means to be apolitical and professional, both of which are essential values in military leadership. As the highest-ranking military officer, he was expected to be an example to the young soldiers who serve with dedication—those who are prepared to pay the ultimate price for the well-being and future of their country. Instead, his conduct has betrayed that trust.
To his defense, some might argue that he is referring to Article 39 of the Ethiopian Constitution — the most controversial article in the country’s constitution.
Article 39 – Rights of Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples ,
- Right to Self-Determination – Every nation, nationality, and people in Ethiopia has an unconditional right to self-determination, including the right to secession.
Even though this controversial article is there, the army is supposed to keep the country intact. This should not come out of the head and mouth of the Army chief. He has to come out and apologize for such words. TPLFites are leaders of the Tigray region. They represent seven million people in the region. How will all these people feel when they hear such words? What will other ethnic groups think about the future of Ethiopia after hearing them? This issue must be addressed in Parliament, not by the supposedly apolitical Army Chief.
Fano is currently dismantling the army in many parts of the Amhara region. Could this be the result of frustration from repeated failures, causing him to break down and shout nonsense in front of many young soldiers? In Gojam, Gondar, and several other areas, the army is being dismantled at an alarming pace. The operations led by Abiy and Birhanu Jula have failed miserably. Their plot to incite the Tigray forces to fight among themselves has also collapsed.
They have no legitimate cause to justify triggering a war with the neighboring country, Eritrea. Meanwhile, the OLA rebels are dismantling the army in the Oromia region. Even they seem aware of the growing coordination among various forces aiming to remove Abiy and his associates from power.
Most importantly, many Oromia scholars and politicians are now gathering on social media, uniting in opposition against Abiy and his allies. Additionally, other opposition groups, led by the prominent peaceful activist Lidetu Ayalew and his colleagues, are coming together to build unity against Abiy and his associates. All these reasons could be the real reasons for such frustration.
Editor’s Note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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In what ways did he became Field Marshall? Is he the best pick?