Could Ethiopia's Monarchy Be Restored and Is It Likely to Happen?

There is a growing debate on whether the Ethiopian monarchy could be restored and if it is likely to happen. Supporters argue that rebuilding the monarchy would bring peace, wealth, and cultural cohesion, comparing it to the enduring influence of the British royal family. However, opponents argue that the current political landscape makes such a restoration virtually impossible.

Proponents of Monarchy Restoration

Proponents of the restoration of Ethiopia's monarchy believe that this institution could serve as a unifying factor for the country. They argue that a constitutional monarchy could position Ethiopia as one of Africa's most prominent nations, alongside Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt. Additionally, they suggest that an Ethiopian monarchy could provide stability and a sense of cultural heritage similar to the role of the British royal family in the United Kingdom.

Pros of Restoring the Monarchy

Unifying the diverse nations of Ethiopia under a single symbolic leadership. Providing a stable governance model with historical roots. Promoting cultural and historical preservation. Increasing international recognition and support for the country.

Challenges and Probabilities of Restoration

Despite these arguments, the feasibility and likelihood of restoring the Ethiopian monarchy face significant challenges. The current political landscape, characterized by strong regional identities and the dominance of ethnic groups, makes it extremely difficult to prevail with this idea.

Historical Context

Historically, the Ethiopian monarchy was tightly tied to the Amhara ethnic group, whose rulers traced their lineage back to King Solomon of Israel. The ruling class, mainly Amharic-speaking Christian highlanders, often viewed other peoples in the country, such as the Oromo and Somalis, as subjects under colonial rule. This sentiment of injustice persisted until the Derg regime overthrew the last emperor, Haile Selassie, in the 1970s.

Post-Derg Period

After the fall of the Derg regime, attempts to address the issues of nations and nationalities were insufficient. The new government continued the centralized power structure, suppressing the autonomy of other ethnic groups. This led to the formation of more than 20 liberation fronts, each advocating for secession and the formation of new sovereign states or joining other countries. The Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF) eventually succeeded in overthrowing the Derg and established a transitional government.

Current Political Landscape

Currently, the majority of Ethiopia's power lies in the hands of the larger ethnic groups such as the Oromo, Somalis, and Tigrayans. Proponents of the monarchy would need to gain significant support from these groups, which represents a small minority of the population. The semi-autonomous status of Oromia, Somalis, and Tigray makes it highly improbable that they would willingly give up their autonomy to re-establish a unified monarchy.

In conclusion, while many Ethiopians hold the view that the monarchy could bring peace, wealth, and cultural harmony, the political realities and current power dynamics make the restoration of the monarchy a highly unlikely event. The dominance of regional and ethnic identities, combined with the ongoing challenges of governance and national cohesion, pose significant obstacles to such a restoration.