By Dr. Suleiman Walhad
August 28th, 2024
Prior to the emergence of the current leadership, the region experienced a significant decline in rationality and logical governance. Somalia, for a brief period in the 1960s, engaged in democratic practices, albeit heavily influenced by clan affiliations. This fleeting democratic experience was soon overshadowed by over two decades of military rule, during which the principles of law, open discourse, and critical reasoning were largely disregarded.
In contrast, Ethiopia has historically lacked a platform for meaningful dialogue and debate. The nation entered the modern era as an imperial entity governed by a monarchy, subsequently transitioning into a military dictatorship followed by a one-party system. This political framework has persisted, leaving Ethiopia entrenched in a landscape devoid of pluralism and democratic engagement.
Eritrea and Djibouti emerged in a context where governance was predominantly characterized by the dominance of a single individual or political party. This environment may have led to a perception that such a system is the only viable form of governance in the region. Both countries are led by leaders who have remained in power far beyond the typical tenure expected in a democratic framework, further entrenching the notion of autocratic rule.
It is not surprising that there exists significant opposition to the one-party dictatorships that dominate the region. This resistance is not merely conventional; it is often characterized by armed conflict, influenced by tribal affiliations, clan loyalties, and, in certain instances, religious extremism. Should this opposition prevail, it is likely that they would perpetuate the same pattern of governance, marked by a lack of debate and discussion. Consequently, the citizens of the Horn of Africa may find themselves perpetually deprived of the freedom to make choices, unless there is a fundamental transformation within the societal structures of the region.
Countless individuals across the Horn of Africa must be pondering the question, “What is fundamentally wrong with our region?” The answer is straightforward: there are no independent judicial systems, no autonomous parliaments—most of which are appointed by the ruling parties—and a complete absence of free speech. Citizens are compelled to conform to the prevailing narrative, facing dire consequences such as expulsion, imprisonment, or even death for dissent. This situation paints a grim picture of the current state of affairs.
The region has been devoid of meaningful discourse for an extended period. While it is possible that the traditional pastoral society of the Somalis once engaged in some form of debate, such instances have long since vanished with the establishment of organized governance. There appears to be a pervasive skepticism regarding the ability of a society founded on debate and rational discourse to govern itself effectively, fostering an environment that is not predicated on conflict or violence.
It is disconcerting to observe certain leaders addressing the public through international media in a manner reminiscent of thugs. Their arguments appear to be driven not by evidence or factual accuracy, but rather by their own subjective reasoning. The absence of polls, debates, or meaningful discussions is evident, as significant issues affecting populations are hastily enacted into law without proper deliberation.
While there may be merit in some of the legislation proposed, the general populace tends to resist change. Consequently, individuals would likely have preferred a more gradual introduction of new laws, facilitated by extensive debates and discussions that engage not only governing parties but also the public, academic institutions, and media outlets. The rhetoric employed by regional leaders often lacks a foundation in honor and truth, instead relying on manipulation and political maneuvering.
The unregulated nature of social media has exacerbated the situation, contributing to a decline in substantive debate and allowing personal beliefs to overshadow objective truth. This environment fosters confusion, as various interpretations of truth are perpetuated and circulated incessantly. Rather than promoting clarity and understanding, the unrestricted flow of information has resulted in a cacophony of competing narratives, leaving individuals and societies in the region increasingly unsettled and anxious.
The apprehension surrounding the potential loss of power among rulers, coupled with the general populace’s fear of oppression, significantly influences the dynamics of the region in a detrimental manner. This pervasive anxiety is evident in the ongoing tribal and clan conflicts that plague each nation, as well as in the widespread migration of individuals seeking refuge in other parts of the world. Such tensions are deeply rooted in ethnic identities, which often exacerbate divisions rather than foster unity.
It is particularly disheartening to observe a growing sense of resignation among many individuals, who appear to believe that the current circumstances are irreversible. This acceptance of despair is troubling, as it undermines the potential for change. While people are often targeted based on their tribal or clan affiliations, there is a growing awareness that these identities primarily serve the interests of a select few rather than the collective well-being of the community. Consequently, the average citizen endures a constant state of hardship and suffering.
In light of these challenges, it is imperative for influential leaders and decision-makers to reevaluate their strategies and seek innovative approaches to reorganize the populations in a manner that can effectively address the prevailing issues. The status quo is untenable, and it is crucial for the nations within the region to resist external exploitation and work towards a more equitable and stable future. A concerted effort to foster unity and collaboration among diverse groups may pave the way for a more hopeful and prosperous environment for all citizens.
Poverty in the region is generally man-made, although natural disasters play a role. The poverty of the region, which has put it at the bottom of nations in the world is due to its ruling systems which do not allow discussions and/or debates and which over concentrates on tribal and clan interests in the place of citizen rights and interests.
There were no displacement camps made of plastic materials mostly in the Horn of African landscape before. There were no food distributions taken from stores and warehouses of other countries, probably nearing expiry dates if not already expired distributed by cruel NGOs. It most unfortunate that leaders allow those NGOs to operate in their countries when they should have encouraged their people to produce their own food.
People of the region should be rechanneled to produce their own foods as they used to do. The guns should be replaced by pens, the hoe and the hook. The land and the seas can still produce enough food instead of food from other parts. It is what the leadership of the region should be working on instead of over emphasis on their personal preservations. They should earn the love of their citizens instead of their scorn.
They should be serving their people and countries better. They only have limited periods on the seats of power, no matter how long, and since there is no permanency, they should probably leave behind, good news as their power periods end. They should not be remembered with disgust when they are mentioned long after they are gone.
Allowing people to debate and discuss before making changes to the ways people live and interact with each other and with the law and governance. This is perhaps one way to not only learn but to legislate what citizens approve of and with what they would abide with easily. Certainly, every society has its infrastructures of belief systems and values, which should be respected. The over-reliance on tribes and clans should be discouraged and the best and most qualified should be appointed and deployed. A good citizen would never disappoint his/her country. It is the only to bring in debates and discussions, reasoning and logic into the general public space of the Horn of Africa States.
