The five ‘blunders’ of Ginbot 7

By Elon Samson

| July 27, 2011



The virulent attacks directed at Ginbot 7, particularly by opposition
forces, in recent times should be a concern for some of us who dream
to see a united and democratic Ethiopia. I for one, have tried to
investigate the weaknesses of this nascent movement that has become
a nightmare for some and a citadel of hope for others. My methodology
is plane, I read and deciphered the programs of the movement,
dissected the speeches of its leaders and interviewed some people who
I thought are capable of giving a balanced and reasonable opinion
including Ginbot7 members.

I don’t want to go into the details of my back ground, theoretical
analysis , my literature review and recommendation in order to save
the time of my esteemed readers. My findings focus on the downsides
of Ginbot 7.

First, the movement has committed the crime of “possession”. Gibot 7
is endowed with fully committed staff and members who can make a
difference. It has recruited the youth, the adult and the professionals.
There are medical doctors, economists, political analysts, journalists,
artists, engineers, IT experts, military leaders, you name it. All these
professionals speak one language- freedom, justice and democracy.

Second, Ginbot 7 committed the crime of “workaholic and devotion”.
Unlike so many media organizations Ginbot 7 radio has never been
interrupted, its editorials have never been faltered, its newsletters have
never been delayed from their deadline. Ginbot7 people have wholly
sacrificed themselves for the causes they believe in. That is one of the
main reasons why the movement became a tremendous force in just 2
years while others had to belabor for 40 years to reach that status.

Third, Ginbot7 committed the crime of “discipline”. Our political
history is renowned for intrigue, conspiracy, intolerance and fall down.
We have never heard any news of internal crisis in Ginbot 7. There
could be crisis, as it is not a constellation of angels, but it has never
publicized it. That is the crime the movement has committed because
for some of us who grew up listening crisis and who pray to listen the
same on Ginbot 7, the movement couldn’t give us that chance.

Fourth, Ginbot7 committed the crime of being a “warrior”. A warrior
is always ready to take decisive measures in time of need because he /
she recognizes that indecision or hesitation would cost his/ her
precious life. Ginbot 7 doesn’t cajole other political parties if these
political parties are not willing to work with it. There is no diplomatic
language or better to say Esheruru in Ginobt 7. The movement doesn’t
attack other organizations and doesn’t sit akimbo if attacked. It has a
clear principle, and plays with and with that principle alone. It gives and
it takes, but doesn’t beg. It is merciless for its own members either
when they falter from their mission.

Fifth, Ginbot 7 committed the crime of “clarity”. Ginbot 7 has clear
national agenda. It doesn’t make itself ready for ideological debate. It is
just a freedom party whose goal is to construct the foundation for
democracy. We can’t accuse it for its land , education, ethnic, foreign or
other policies. This simple but powerful vision is a force that no sane
man can ignore it easily. The vision and mission captivates and makes
one committed.

Hadn’t Gibot 7 committed all these heinous crimes, it wouldn’t have
been the center of attack. Ginbot 7 should take these points seriously if
it wants to save the movement from the attackers. The choice seems
simple: to go forward or to go backward. I hope the movement of
experts will come up with a well-thought decision.


The writer can be reached at
[email protected]


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