Universal Human Rights, Universal Suffrage, Sovereignty, Democractic(Liberal) System, Transparency, Freedom of Expression and Press, Freedom of Movement, Fair Trade, Rule of Law
This is an extract from my facebook page comment section. It was given by a member of One Nation movement against me. After reading the comment, I felt that it is a typical YPFDJ Cadre reaction towards dissidents. Hence, I am using this as a prove on how much the One Nation Movement members and their political approach is similar to YPFDJ. I do not know the person who wrote these comments but he looks not happy at all for what I am advocating for – peace between the people of Eritrea and Tigray region of Ethiopia, which is similar stand with the PFDJ Cadres.
The Beginning
tes:
Did u accept the Mekele Univ Invitation by the TPLF Cadres ? Sounds like it.
Trying to be another Ayte Amanuel Sahle?
A new born Blenay-
Tigraway?
Good luck.
First Zereba then what ?
Ghibri!
We welcome any approach for a Peaceful Co-existence between the two neighboring nations and peoples and MUTUAL Regional Integration
BEYOND THAT, any thing and anyone, that can jeopardize the Eritrean Unity in any form is but a TREASON and a TRAITOR, and he or she should be dealt seriously and swiftly in an UN-ambiguous way !
We will apply the Newahin merrarin Halenghi /Kurmaj EPLF!
Stop repeating and narrating the obsolete centuries old stories and Enda Siwwa Zanta and tsiwitsiway.
Eritrea is an Independent and Sovereign Nation and a UN -member State.
The Tegaru u r trying to cover up for, should first know and accept that fact, then GET OUT from our Sovereign Lands unconditionally and apologize genuinely to Eritreans for what they have done to Eritreans rather than aggravating the “ animosity” they are experts on by attempting to create further havoc and division among Eritreans thru their FAILED, rotten and obsolete region and religion based divisive politics ;then try to live in peace with us as Good Neighbors!
Focus on bringing about a positive change in Eritrea through Unity in Diversity of Eritreans .
It is NOT the time now to talk zanta and tsiwitsiway.
A final word /my opinion on your take:
They are talking facts ,not an EXPIRED zanta !
U r acting and talking like the worst “hypocrite or even a bigot” for calling names, selectively discriminating and giving prescriptions as to who should have a right to talk and who should not!
If few bigots and traitors have a right to insult Eritreans publicly based on their region and religion, the ORIGINAL and GENUINE ERITREANS have a legit RIGHT to express their opinions.
BTW, why don’t u have a courage to call the spade, a spade, about what the SWORN ENEMIES of Eritrea and Eritreans are bluffing about Eritrea and Eritreans negatively day and night ?
It takes two to tango!
They can’t torture us like they have done for the last 20 years and at the same time tell us that we are their brothers —-while STABBING us from behind!
Reconciliation is a two-way-lane,FYI!
We Eritreans have said MERHABA from the get to go by FORGIVING them….. but they have abused our peaceful approach as a weakness!
( Hamashenay Asha??)
Can u equally address them like you are finger pointing at your own people? Not only that, you should CONDEMN and DESPISE them, not just their evil deeds and agenda !
This conversation is a conversation done with unknown Eritrean whom I faced with his ideas fearlessly for three years. On January 04, 2019, he gave up and decided to block me after I crossed his “Red Line”. I believe that he is one of the great politicians who has dominated Eritrean politics for the last 15 years. According to him, his main interest is the case of Eritrean Eritrean Lowlands and Jeberti community recognition in Eritrea.
Last message from Frezghi Mesmer
As a faceless man, I always maintained my privacy when I deal with him as he did so. But, we continued exchanging for the last three years in civility and amicably. It is unfortunate that he decided to leave when he can not more tolerate my freedom to express my idea freely.
I know he kept his identity secret. But, why suddenly he decided to bring his red Line to me when I discussed Aberra HAGOS family. Is he from them, if so, why he feels hurt when he was the one who was criticizing many Eritreans freely? Well, my analysis will follow. For now, I am making our conversation public so that Eritreans can know how farFrezghi Mesmer and I were engaged for the last three years.
Frezghi Mesmer
It is not clear what you believe. It is only clear that you don't trust Zaki or myself. From what you wrote, you accuse the PFDJ of being anti-Akele, anti-Muslim, etc. Which means if those groups are oppressed, there must be a group on top that oppresses them.
Tesfabirhan
As far as I don't know who you are, I don't care about trust. We exchange on politics. And my stand is very clear. If I am discussing with you, please do not think that I consider you a special target. I am discussing, debating or arguing with you as far as you stay engaged. Otherwise, I do dozens of engagement in a day which is similar to yours. And I like the way we engage. It is pure politics, When I engage with you,, I consider myself engaging with ideas, not with people. And I like this. I bring your identity because I can not discuss at a personal level. And I have lots of respect for the idea you bring though I don't agree in almost all.
Frezghi Mesmer
The regionalists in the opposition will always pick
the Hamasein as the oppressing group. Yet, as I said in the post, there is no
benefit to being Hamasien with the regime. No extra rations, no slavery
exemptions, etc. The Hamasein origin leaders in the EDF or PFDJ are
specifically forbidden to help their own people. That is building popular
support and a constituency. So, when there are no clear benefits to a region
and no exemption from oppression, it cant be said that Hama is the oppressive
region.
Frezghi Mesmer
That is decent of you to say but let me point out bias. You likely have a lot of activist contacts. Most of them have conventional ideas about the problem in Eritrea. You could not go against what they believe. You have to smooth over those differences because you have to live with them. With me, since I am no one, you don't. You can afford(politically and socially) to take a hard line. My out-of-the-box views also make this easy. I submit to you that you are as boxed in by conventional opposition ideas as any PFDJ supporter is by PFDJ ideas. Neither do you effectively apply LD ideas to our particular issues? The Jeberti issue bore that out. Your view on Jeberti is not based on LB. They are typical lowland AND highland chauvinist ideas about Jeberti. So, if your ideas about Jeberti are conventional, then it follows that your ideas about the highland regions are also conventional. Which means superficial and unexamined as it applies to the Diaspora opposition. I am stepping away for 30 mins to an hour....will reply later
Tesfabirhan
well, I see this from two angles. 1. PFDJ benefits no one even for its core members. PFDJ is a system that kills everybody. 2. To run PFDJ as a system, it needs competent and obedient people. And for this, officers who are trained to run the system are from Hamasien. This could be based on its early days of EPLF era. Nihnan Elamanan Manifesto is the perfect read why people from Hamasien are at the center of the helm. And I have experienced it based on an eyewitness who is who within the most trusted system operators.
Tesfabirhan
Jeberti Issue - I did a long discussion with Dr. Mustafa - a Jeberti who wrote about the history of Jeberti people. And I clarified why I am critical about their claim. My call is very simple - Jeberti people should upgrade their rights to a human rights issue and fight for it. So far, they are at a political level. Remember - human Rights includes 1. Social, Cultural and Economic Rights 2. Civic and Political Rights. By advocating their human rights grievances, they can get international attention and those who are skeptical about their claim could understand it in a safe way. Otherwise, like we see recently, movements like Aga'azians can immerge who can create identity conflicts. And this is purely LD perspective.
Tesfabirhan
My politics to PFDJ is purely rejection. I don't use
my LD to fight against PFDJ politics. I use LD within the opposition camp
because I believe that it is the best means to save us from our current
political bunkruptcy. Therefore, I am using a double strategy.
Frezghi Mesmer
There are no trusted operators. Interchangeability is the main feature of the system. I will grant you that the EPLF has a large percentage of Hamasien origin individuals. That had to do with geography. If the early days of the EPLF are in the middle of Hamasein, then its early recruits are Hama. As Ghedli recruiting followed social patterns, you joined the front where you had friends and relatives. As such, the EPLF has a lot of Hama in general. From such large numbers, any number of corrupt collaborators can be found. Also, one culture of Hamasein that you are unfamiliar with is their tendency to discount their region almost entirely. No Hamaseinay will help another simply because of regional connection. No Hama tells their children to marry within the region. Self-negation of one's regional identity is exclusive to the Hama. As such, Hama leaders tend to be viewed as fair by most Eritreans. They will not do special favors on a region. Whereas, other regions have an almost palpable sense of regional clannishness. You will see them give board exemptions to their co-regionals. Even to the extent of the immigration office, you can count on co-regional favors if you are from a region OTHER than Hama. One other personality tendency of the Hama is the famous naivete and foolishness they have. They are easy to control by DIA. Neither does DIA pick the educated Hama. He picks the most uneducated, naive, and corrupt ones. Wuchu was the best example. Wuchu only believed in war. He took care of his soldiers. His dog-like loyalty to DIA was viewed more due to his peasant and naive nature than any malevolence. While UOA students can rightly hate him for his threats in WIA, the majority of the Eritrean people generally liked him. He knew the name of every decent fighter in his divisions. He was popular in a way that did not threaten DIA. That is the benefit of using Hama for DIA. You have to dig deeper than the superficial conclusions your friends tell you.
Tesfabirhan
My concern on the Lowland issue - it is purely
anti-pfdj occupation. I am against PFDJ Land Proclamation. And I do believe
that the lowlanders are the primary victims. I want to restore land ownership
and return those occupied to their owners.
Tesfabirhan
About Hama - it is good that you acknowledged the high number of Highlanders. Let us leave this as it is. On characterization - I don't agree with you. No one told me about this. I lived in Eritrea observing "who is who" and now I am continuing to observe who is who. Of course, PFDJ system does not welcome educated people. It is a system of non-academicians - Even now, here in the diaspora, it does not welcome educated people. However, Nihnan Elamanan is everything to start with and conclude from. Without understanding Nihnan Elamanan, we can not understand PFDJ. In principle - PFDJ is Anti-Muslims. Any Muslim is not trusted through a Muslim can take a higher position as a cover of diversity issue. EPLF from the very beginning identified itself as "Christian Highlanders (just like what is now Aga'azians are claiming) who are ready to work with any to liberate Eritrea". This self-identification is a clear sign of their true identity and unmixed identity. According to their manifesto, they worked with anybody who agrees with them. Yet they operated EPLF as a private enterprise of the Highlanders (Hamasien). I am saying this with confidence because that is what they teach in PFDJ Cadre School in Nakfa, right now. 2 special days are reserved on Nihnan Elamanan teachings. And for this, either DIA or Yemane Gebreab are entitled to teach.
9/25/17, 11:13 PM
Frezghi Mesmer
Well, I agree with you on the Land Proclamation. I
also agree the lowlands are the main victim of this law. It is a law written
using a farmer's perspective in a nation that is 50% agro-pastoralist. I agree
on the high number of highlanders in regime. I never question that. I have
characterized the regionalism issue as highlanders complaining about a 35% Hama
-25% Seraye-20% Akele shares of positions, while the Lowlands only has 20% or
less. 50% of the country has less than 20% representation. So, my sympathy is
always with the forgotten lowlands as opposed to greedy or sensitive
highlanders. It is what a patriotic would do. To support the truly oppressed (lowlands)
vs those that are marginally oppressed in terms of representation.
Frezghi Mesmer
On EPLF being mainly highlanders, that is a historical
issue. The lowlands dominated the ELF. At a time when it was popular to join
the struggle, in the early 1970s, the majority of lowland youth flocked to
Jebha. While highland youth flocked to both EPLF and ELF. However, once Jebha
left the field. The number of lowlanders in the struggle dropped. Save for
Hizbawi Hailitat 1st Wing aka Ubel. They formed the core for the secret party
and were a stable component for PFDJ rule until Forto.
Tesfabirhan
I think, we do not such big differences on what
happened. Our biggest difference is this You want to check. I want to move. I
care less on what was there except to learn. What I care is the Secret Party
you mentioned is the monster of our suffering. And this secret party has
created the system now in use by PFDJ. And my objective is to WEED OUT this
system. I am not fun of what happened. I want freedom today.
Tesfabirhan
Hope this summarizes
Our differences
Tesfabirhan
In politics, our difference is this You are conservative and you check. I am progressive- hence I move on. This is our difference. And it is not bad. What we should understand is every one of us is well aware of what he is advocating for. And when argument emerges, it is basically our political difference.
9/26/17, 7:23 PM
Frezghi Mesmer
First of all, because you were quick to judge me. You did not know
i was the biggest proponent for lowland rights. To the point where many people
think I am Muslim. Also, I am not conservative at all. I want truly fundamental
change. I see the instrument of fundamental change as being the way WE THINK.
Not the positions we take. The positions are meaningless if the underlying
political culture is corrupt. We know that democracy is a CULTURE of norms and
traditions. Not simply a system of laws. So, introducing healthy political
norms is a far bigger challenge than introducing law. Those norms should be
easier to institute in the DIaspora. Where there is minimal political cost.
Frezghi Mesmer
But, Diaspora politicians, in their loneliness and
need for social acceptance are more prone to group think and the perpetuation
of negative norms and traditions.
9/27/17, 10:54 PM
Tesfabirhan
First of all, I believe that democracy is a political process that needs to be learned and practiced. It is not therefore as you are describing Second: A fundamental change needs a strong political ideology. No one can join unless there is a clear politics to follow. Today, Eritreans are in political chaos. Though I have a strong belief that we will overcome, this chaotic situation needs to come out and take the lead. I do not think you are strong proponent lof lowlanders rights. In fact, I have not seen you advocating your politics or what you believe on except checking politics that stand against EPLF and those who use Ethiopia as a strategic place. I am reading you closely. You are more conservative than I can imagine. No nationalist is free from being conservative.
9/28/17, 6:55 PM
Frezghi Mesmer
Lol, so self-important. If you didn't see it, it did not happen? Is that your reasoning? You don't know my history at all. You are simply quick to judge and stubbornly stick to it. An underlying tendency for dictatorial beneath all your LD talk. First of all, as Free Eri, I was a Moderator for Eritreans for Action FB group. A group that is overwhelmingly lowland and Muslim. Second, ask Wad Haiget, Asia Abysinnia Job, and Shabbash Kerenite. They are all lowlanders who have interacted with me well for years. They know my stance on the lowlands. Another evidence is that some Christians think I am Muslim. For example, Milen Tewelde Lia and Chris Omally Tumuzhgi are convinced I am a Muslim due to my stance. Look at my Friends list, I have as many Muslim as I do Christian. Most from Eritreans for Actions and others who saw my post in support of lowland rights.
Tesfabirhan
My friend, I think I have all these information. I
have a good friend who has followed you since 2012 or 11. And i know free Eri
too as your nick name. Therefore do not take me naive for what I am saying.
Your area of interest is nationalism. Do you forget that you played a negative
role to widen the gap between EYSC and Simret? I remember very well your never
ending debate between Thomas Solomon and you.
Frezghi Mesmer
My "defense" of EPLF history is not based on ideology. It is practicality. The Ghedli-storytelling is an escape from a true struggle. By reviewing what happened years ago and condemning it today, the activists do not have to face what is happening today. They do not have to deal with the much larger issues of today. it is also done in a selective and regionalist manner. It is anti-justice to accuse without evidence and to defame outside a court of law. It is a dictatorial politics borrowed from the PFDJ. No need to beautify it. As far as Ethiopia as a strategic place, that has been proven to be a dead-end. We have an Ethiopian agent, Amiche, controlling who addresses Eritreans and who doesn't on Paltalk. Lol, what a ridiculous position. We also now know that Tigrayans have different priorities concerning Eritrea. They want an Agazian like future. Not the same future we Eritreans want for ourselves. For both these stances, you should be my biggest defender. Because the anti-EPLF Ghedli storying telling is anti-justice and hurtful to our struggle. While the Ethiopian interference only gave us parties that are welfare eaters, Unionists, or Agazians. That is the bitter truth. A true struggler embraces the truth and uses it to guide him. A faux struggler uses truth sparingly. Which is the mode most in the opposition use it? Already, you are doing the same as them. With your strong stance against Mesfin Hagos, promising secret evidence, and yet revealing little. You have been swept up by the same currents as the others.
Tesfabirhan
And I know you defended the lowlanders. But mind me,
what I am saying is your political interest is mainly Eritreanism.
Tesfabirhan
LD is this and I am guided with 1. Sovereignty 2.
Freedom of citizens 3. Human rights of every Eritrean as absolute and protected
4. Freedom of movement including goods 5. Free market 6. Universal suffrage 7.
Transparency 8. Rule of law
These plus other important principles (applied in the Eritrean
context) are what 8 use to debate, right, defend, activate, etc. And my
evaluation and opposing for you is based on these guidelines.
Frezghi Mesmer
LOL, are you kidding? SIMRET seperate themselves from
EYSC long before I started to comment. I questioned the use of armed struggle
to Tomas Solomon. He was never able to justify it as a tactic or a strategy.
Four years after they formed their stupid Strategic Actions Group, they have
not done a single action! Is that my fault? Simretawiyan were delusional,
dictatorial, and overly aggressive. They took out their regionalist feelings on
fellow strugglers. Seeing fellow strugglers as more of a problem than the
regime. It is Smret that opened the way for the Regionalism-based parties of
today. Now, they are quiet because they have painted themselves into a
political corner. Idiots. Smret or Tomas did not like my questioning and
criticism of their armed struggle nonsense. They asked EYSC to ban me and EYSC
refused. That was their issue with me and EYSC. Besides, Smret was in the
middle of the anti-Bologna intimidation of 2013. Do you really think they
wanted to work with EYSC? They hated EYSC's program, stances, leaders, etc etc.
They were more interested in defeating EYSC than the regime. All they did is
blunt the entire youth movement in ineffectiveness. There is not a more
destructive movement than Simret. They tried to become the anti-EYSC with their
Ethiopian help and co-opting of EYSC branches worldwide. Even the infamous EYSC
Board revolt was influenced by the regionalism sentiment of Simret and its
sympathizers in EYSC.
Tesfabirhan
At least, accept that you are conservative
Then we can move on. Otherwise, we will continue to argue
On the description of Simret, I agree with you. What I
don't agree with you on having Ethiopia as a strategic place.
Your nationalism pride ruled you to reject it. Know
that Saleh Younis from awate has the same stance as yours here
Frezghi Mesmer
No. Your conclusions are glib and superficial. You
have a long way to go before I take your pronouncements as meaningful. Already,
you missed a large part of my brand of nationalism. My brand of nationalism is
that every group's issues are legitmate and part of the nationalist discourse.
I PRACTICED what I believe in in the last 4-5 years. I took Lowland and JEBERTI
issues as my own nationalist issues. I am a Tigrinya speaker from Karneshim
like that idiot Wuchu. What am I conserving them? Your definition of
conservative doesnt apply to me because this is a new idea in Eritrean
discourse.
Tesfabirhan
I always laugh when you insist people to come with a strategy.
It is very laughable for me.
Frezghi Mesmer
It was not nationalism! it was 1000% practicality!
Tesfabirhan
It is not because a strategy is not needed, but to come with a working ideology, you need a clear political ideology. Here is how I see to come with an efficient strategy: It is in chronological descending order 1. Political ideology 2. Vision 3. Mission 4. Goals 5. Objectives 6. Policies 7. Strategies 8. Programs 9. Projects 10. Events
Now locate where you are focusing - 7th. For you and I to come out with a successful strategy, we should at least agree on our political ideology and vision. And the same applies to all political parties/civic
societies/communities etc.
Frezghi Mesmer
I accept your order of change. Now, where your
political ideology flounders in the opposition is the political culture of the
opposition is the same as the PFDJ. Because they refuse to accept criticisms,
they never improve. So, number 1 should mean political ideology that RESPECTS
the norms of democratic culture. In practice, none of the groups or individuals
respects the norms of democratic culture or LD. EVEN YOU, insisted on labeling
me and defaming me before asking any questions. So, if you can’t even
discipline yourself to follow your own strategy, what hope is there?
Tesfabirhan
Frezghi - transparency matters not your village or
region or religion. I don't care from where you came. What I care is your open
and transparency
Tesfabirhan
If you are feeling that In defamed you or labeled you,
fore give me. It must be ignorance to read you wrongly. What label is your
politics or ideas you bring to the common platform.. The good I don't know you
as a person. Hence nothing will be changed into personal thing However, up to
date i hold my description of your political line You are a nationalist. And
area of interest is to check and defend what has happened in the past.
Tesfabirhan
On number 1: Political ideology It depends. Each one
has its own ideology. What we should come to common understanding is we have
differences. Once we acknowledge our differences, we can debate on and come out
with a unifying politics that can produce a common vision.
Frezghi Mesmer
Nonsense and nonsense. It is acceptance of our
differences and a common democratic vision that will get us there. We don’t
need an ideology. We need accept different views and respect it. Our problem is
a cultural problem. Not an ideological problem. Will continue later. Have
another work meeting...
Frezghi Mesmer
A powerful event. They used their faith to steel them
from fear of death.
Tesfabirhan
Very true
Last Conversation 04/01/2019
3:04 AM
Frezghi Mesmer
you crossed the line with your defamation of the
Aberra family. Asmarinos of several generations know them well and love them
dearly. Your insult to them is an insult from my generation to my
great-grandparents. The depth of your insult is only overcome by the depth of
madness that has gripped your mind. Seek professional help. Mind your family
and your responsibilities. As for me, I am done with you. Blocking you from now
on.
This conversation is a conversation done with unknown Eritrean whom I faced with his ideas fearlessly for three years. On January 04, 2019, he gave up and decided to block me after I crossed his “Red Line”. I believe that he is one of the great politicians who has dominated Eritrean politics for the last 15 years. According to him, his main interest is the case of Eritrean Eritrean Lowlands and Jeberti community recognition in Eritrea.
Last message from Frezghi Mesmer
As a faceless man, I always maintained my privacy when I deal with him as he did so. But, we continued exchanging for the last three years in civility and amicably. It is unfortunate that he decided to leave when he can not more tolerate my freedom to express my idea freely.
I know he kept his identity secret. But, why suddenly he decided to bring his red Line to me when I discussed Aberra HAGOS family. Is he from them, if so, why he feels hurt when he was the one who was criticizing many Eritreans freely? Well, my analysis will follow. For now, I am making our conversation public so that Eritreans can know how farFrezghi Mesmer and I were engaged for the last three years.
Conversation Started on 19/01/2016 –
Conversation started by Tesfabirhan
1/19/16, 9:01 PM
Tesfabirhan
Virtual Eritrean Mr frezghi, how are you?
6/2/16, 6:47 PM
You can now call each other and see information like Active Status and when you've read messages.
Frezghi Mesmer
haha, sorry I just saw this. I am well, Tes. Hope you are too. Why are we not FB friends at least?
6/4/16, 12:13 AM
Tesfabirhan
Hi Frezghi, how can a virtual person accept friendship
No way
Frezghi Mesmer
are you going to attack me for my cowardice?:) My lack of belief in change? Please go ahead. I admire you a lot. I will accept any insult as if from an elder..
Tesfabirhan
Kkkk
No attack but as usual provoke
This is where I am good at
And as planned it worked even if is late
Though I don't agree with you promote I am to read the views of those hard line nationalists
Read "with what you promote..."
Frezghi Mesmer
I am writing something now on my wall. Hope it provokes you more.
Frezghi Mesmer
check it out.....
Tesfabirhan
I gave my response
No no this time u spoke on behalf of me
Thank u
6/8/16, 7:52 PM
Frezghi Mesmer
We are more similar than different, Tes bro.
1/19/17, 12:35 AM
Tesfabirhan
hello zeyhilelo
happy new year
Frezghi Mesmer
Hey bro, same to you. Hope Abraham did not disappoint you too much?
Tesfabirhan
Not actually
I am always skeptical for those who are fun of Arts
they are so easy to move with the wind
and are easily convinced as they gifted to appreciate new ideas
but I got a good opportunity to go against Tesfazion's manifesto
I believe on killing the discipline than the master
Frezghi Mesmer
you are wedi Keren, right?
Tesfabirhan
kkk, no
I am not a ghost like you
kkk
fantôme yiblwo ezom ferensawyan
Frezghi Mesmer
Lol, you got me there. There are a certain number of Kebessa that are obsessed with Ethiopia. They see it as an answer to everything. Agazian is just the latest Ethiopian thing.
Tesfabirhan
I don't think they are obsessed with ethiopia
in fact this where you and me differ in our take
they are just looking the best way to come out from our current problems. And what they chose is always becoming wrong.
They go only to the Ethiopian territory when they are just kicked off by a sudden and out of their expected public reaction.
I don't know why you are so obsessed with the ethiopian thing though.
Frezghi Mesmer
sigh.....Ethiopia spends over 200k per year on Eritrean opposition. Of course it is going to have the most influence.
Tesfabirhan
Ok spending is one and I agree on the effect
but why Eritreans are forced to depend on ethiopian funding?
This is what I always ask
The opposition camp are getting a kick whenever they come. Of course they don't come with a right political programs
Frezghi Mesmer
Because, they wont take the time to start a grassroots fund raising operation.
Tesfabirhan
and we just reject them instead of embracing them
then Ethiopia hijacks them
this is my reservation of not blaming ethiopia but for sure I know what is the effect once they are trapped there
Frezghi, Eritreans are not good in financing grass root movements
they are good in pouring their money when they see big things
Frezghi Mesmer
you are wrong. Eritreans follow an established pattern. Losing or winning, it almost doesnt matter to them.
Tesfabirhan
ah, that is what I mean established pattern
Frezghi Mesmer
It would have taken 3-5 years of an established FULL-TIME organization to dominate the opposition. No one ever bothered to work towards it. Every year, it would have more members. All it needed was consistent and simple philosophy for change.
Tesfabirhan
i just couldn't get the right word
3-5 years is for grass root movement
but remember all opposition groups are part-timers
Frezghi Mesmer
The EPLF established student groups that raised funds for it starting in the 70s. By the mid 80s, they raised 100s of 1000s s for it annually.
Tesfabirhan
how can then invest 3-5 yrs without financial resources
EPLF has hijacked an already established organization
Everyone is looking an EPLF model. No i totally disagree
Frezghi Mesmer
donations. You need dedicated people who can donate $100 per month without interruption. Fundraisersers and foreign donations can supplement this .
Tesfabirhan
In fact EPLF is a bundit
who stole resources (be it human or financial) from ELF
people can donate more than 100 but they are looking for a strong and well established organization
I was for exampling contributing more than 40 euros every month for 2 yrs when I was a student
even now I am contributing the same amount but for others
therefore it is not because we are not contributing but all of us are part-time opposition forces
Frezghi Mesmer
To succeed, an org has to have full-time leadership initially and members later on. To be full-time, it has to have independent funding. Donations are the only independent source of funding. We will never move from part-time unless we commit to it or find activists who will commit to it. Giving them a minimal salary is the way forward.
Tesfabirhan
I agree with you
Unless there are officially paid opposition leaders in the opposition, it will be hard to achieve our goals
More than Okay, bro. It was a principled defense. No one doubts your sincerity in the struggle or your cleanness of heart. At least, I dont.
I disagree with some views you have. That is all. People of integrity are expected to have beliefs. If it agrees with me, great. if not, it is still worthwhile and a pleasure to engage with them to find common ground. Keep being you.
Tesfabirhan
yah, I love different views
that is why I like to debate
through debating we perfect our thoughts and the winner can take the path
yet the ideas never die
Frezghi Mesmer
doubtful. Organization and leadership is what accomplishes goals. Not debating societies.
Tesfabirhan
and this is my principle in every fight I do
and thank you for your compliment
lets fight for bigots
Frezghi Mesmer
indeed....bigots are the enemies of everyone
Tesfabirhan
who don't tolerate other idea or try to silence ideas
indeed and I believe Aregai is a bigot though not a fascist like Tesfazion
in fact, my move against Aregai is multi-dimensional, against his bigotry, against his rule of the jungle, against fake unity call, against his anti-human rights
in fact, human rights embraces all
enough for a synonym man
just wanted to clarify
greetings Mr. Anonymous
not synonym sorry for the misuse
Frezghi Mesmer
lol indeed. Well, its good to expose him. People should know. I rarely go on paltalk. I thought he was a nationalist.
Tesfabirhan
me too, I never go to paltalk
butt thanks to facebook
and for the nationalit - that is why I hate nationalism
kkkkkkkkk
keytezaribena ske
Eritrea needs now Liberal Democracy
This is what I have concluded at last though it is impossible to let nationalism die
Frezghi Mesmer
i agree
4/10/17, 10:47 PM
Frezghi Mesmer
Hi Tes, how come you havent commented on my theory about the real reason narrow appeals are used the Diaspora opposition?
Tesfabirhan
Hello Frezghi
How are you?
I have only one reason
Though your thoughts are great, I am just feeling non-energetic when I interact with faceless people
I wish you expose yourself. I appreciate you in almost all of your political take(except few).
Plus, I am a bit over stretched these days
but but the main reason is transparency
Frezghi Mesmer
Either my ideas have merit to struggle and must be addressed or your preferences trumps the progress of the struggle.
Tesfabirhan
I am a liberal democrat and hence you know where we will be in conflict
and as a liberal democrat, I believe on transparency
In case, I consider you as a conservative, center right republican
Which I think it is where I basically differ with you.
Unlike Solomon Tesfamariam (he writes it in Tigrigna), Nationalist, Aregai Hagos - Ultra Nationalist, you are just a nationalist. I won't be surprised if stand against sectarian, regionalists, religious, etc.
Frezghi Mesmer
Everyone has reasons for anonymity. One benefit that is rarely considered is that I am free to say what I truly think without fear of consequences. Have you ever considered the value in that? Once someone joins the formal opposition, the group think soon starts to affect their ideas. If not that, they are afraid to antagonize their friends in various camps. The end result is stasis and stagnation.
Frezghi Mesmer
Ever heard the expression "we are playing word games on the Titanic."
Tesfabirhan
But today, we are not in a political debate
we are fighting
I consider myself as a fighter
Frezghi Mesmer
These political spectrum definitions that you have are not appropriate to our struggle. We need critical mass.
Tesfabirhan
hence I am fully exposed to the public
and for what I do I am responsible
this is the advantage of transparency
responsibility
Frezghi Mesmer
That’s not actually true, Tes.
Tesfabirhan
and accountability
and what you are saying is the opposite
It is true
but it might not be for you
Frezghi Mesmer
You live in a civilized society. You are protected by laws. The regime elements in the West are not interested in going to jail. You only risk your ability to visit the homeland. Little else.
Tesfabirhan
Liberal Democrats believe on transparency, accountability, responsibility, hence rule of law
Frezghi Mesmer
That is a legitimate risk, for sure. And one that is a sacrifice.
Tesfabirhan
I have risked everything.
my family, my baby, my wife
everything - even I was once upto a dxxxxx
Frezghi Mesmer
Forgive me if I stepped over the line. I a m not talking about you personally. Since I dont know you.
Tesfabirhan
Don't worry. I am who I am and I am saying what I have to say it is my conviction and principle
Frezghi Mesmer
I meant in general. Anyway, back to the relevant points.
Tesfabirhan
Don't worry therefore. the relevant point for me is transparency
Frezghi Mesmer
Diaspora strugglers risk disconnection from the struggle inside the homeland.
Tesfabirhan
but yes we can discuss also on idea. Network with homeland is one thing
Frezghi Mesmer
I think due to the distance and exile. Anything less than a united effort is not a struggle. It is avoiding the struggle. it is waiting out the struggle while saying you are in the struggle. Especially for those with narrow appeals.
Tesfabirhan
I appreciate for anonymosity but I expect high quality of information
Frezghi Mesmer
Of course
Tesfabirhan
Look, I am happy these days. for the development the justice seeking is doing. For the last 4-5 yrs, we were in chaos, till now!
but it seems that the struggle is taking its shape
Frezghi Mesmer
You are fooling yourself. it is dying and losing momentum. Why are groups dormant and only wake up to argue? why isn't there an agreed upon strategy by all groups by now?
Because of the total lack of ideas in the opposition, people have been free to wander into Agazianism and regionalism. That is political death.
Tesfabirhan
I have a different perspective
what we are doing is moving from collective nationalistic struggle to chaotic liberal struggle. And from this chaotic struggle, rule of law will be developed
Frezghi Mesmer
tes, I love you like a dear brother. But you are delusional!
Tesfabirhan
Thank you and same me too. I have great appreciation in most areas. As for me, I don't think I am delusional
Frezghi Mesmer
Chaotic struggle is always exploited by the most organized and most ruthless party. If DIA died today, the various groups can do nothing to influence the situation. They don’t even have a plan to work together if that happens. Or even an ideological outline.
Tesfabirhan
Take my notes carefully
I am not saying chaotic struggle is the end. what I am saying the chaos we are witnessing today is changing of our political thinking - from socialists and nationalistic mindset to liberal thinkers
Frezghi Mesmer
This is only of the reasons why I CANT participate openly in the struggle. I dont understand why people think the way they do. I dont mind sacrificing for principles I believe in. I cant see sacrificing to be lumped in with regionalists and Agazians.
Tesfabirhan
just like that of the 1940s 50s
Frezghi Mesmer
It certainly is not!
Tesfabirhan
Liberalism is not good at all
but there is high probability of coming with a common law
Look those naughty Akeleguzay nationalists
Frezghi Mesmer
One big difference is that we are OUTSIDE our homeland. We are lonely refugees shaking our identity beads in a strange and new society in order to make ourselves feel better. Our politics is social in nature. It is a way for us to continue our Eritrean identity in a foreign land. We are just like the PFDJ supporters. Just their polar opposite in what we define as Eritreanism.
Tesfabirhan
Finally they are out. Almost filtered. Now it is time to make laws
Frezghi Mesmer
In what context can you make and enforce laws??
Tesfabirhan
It is not simple but now the time has reached. and I believe everyone is callign for it. - Even Kunama opposition are now back to acknowledge eritrean history. - Afar are demanding for open dialogue - Adikeih, those who always create havoc and who believe on violence are now calling for mutual respect
Frezghi - Eritrea is a diverse country
nationalism/socialism will not help
Only Liberal Democratic political ideology will work
Liberal democracy is welcome by our Mulsim brothers
is welcome by Catholics
is welcome by regionalists
is welcome by sectarians
is welcome by extremists
is welcome by all religions
is welcomed by business people
I am reading a lot about liberal democracy these days. and my politics is maturing
and hopefully I will be a prominent political advocate for liberal democracy
Frezghi Mesmer
Who says nationalism excludes liberal democracy? Did you think I was advocating for a replacement to the PFDJ that was similar to the PFDJ? I spoke up for lowland issues so much that half the FB audience thinks I am from the lowlands.
Tesfabirhan
PFDJ ideology is not nationalism
it is Juche Ideology
Frezghi Mesmer
Same for Muslims. I defended them as a crucial part of Eritrean and I was accused of being a Muslim. Liberal democracy can exist only under a unitary nationalism in which each group's grievances are national grievances. A Tigrinya should be just as well versed in Kunama and Afar issues. Because both those groups are part of the nation.
Tesfabirhan
Nationalists are OK with people's grievances - if you talk about lowland, don't think it is not nationalism
And same for Muslims
Liberal Democracy principles are very simple: 1. Respect of Human Rights (very important) - 2. Free Market 3. Free Speech 4. Freedom of Movement 5. Rule of Law 6. Sovereignty
Frezghi Mesmer
Okay, bro. I have to get back to work. I just wanted your input. take care.
Tesfabirhan
On the other hand, Nationalism - 1. shared communal identification (History) 2. Self-governance, with full sovereignity( free from unwanted outside interference) 3. Developping and maintaining national identity ( characteristics such as culture, language, race, religion, political goals) 4. preserve the nation's culture, sense of pride in the nation's achievements(patriotism),
Tesfabirhan
that is all. Now see the difference
It is like the USA Politics: Democrats Vs. Republicans
We will continue
and hope you will be transparent
5/31/17, 6:17 PM
Frezghi Mesmer
I can’t believe you write on awate.com but have little understanding of Jeberti issues. Have you not read old articles by Saleh Johar on the issue?
5/31/17, 11:00 PM
Tesfabirhan
Hello Frezghi -I can't understand what you mean exactly. could you please clarify to me
Frezghi Mesmer
Jeberti are a historic people that spread to four countries in the Horn. Eritrea, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Somalia. They were either converted by the original Sabaha(Mohamed's followers who fled to Abyssinia) or related to them. The reason they dont have their own language is because they assimilated centuries ago. They only kept their origin current and not their original language. Sort of like the Jews. In Ethiopia and Eritrea, they played pivotal historical roles. Especially in Eritrea. The Jeberti of Tigray were persecuted by Menelik(?) and driven out or converted. Those that fled into Eritrea joined existing Jeberti. This is why many Eritreans think all Jeberti come from Tigray. Anyway, because of their experience in Ethiopia. Jeberti were skeptical of Union with Ethiopia. As a result, they were the FIRST to fight for independence as a group. The first victims of Andinet terrorists who killed them and burned their homes and businesses. They were the canary in the goldmine for Eritrea. As such, their wish for historical recognition is not only simple justice. It is also supported by Eritrean patriotism or nationalism. It is also a wish expressed in non-violent and peaceful terms. How could you compare them with the odious Agazians? You should have seen their issue in terms of free expression and recognition of expressed identity by the state.
Tesfabirhan
Please don't think that I don't know this history
I have enough historical background
Jeberti people issue is not political but Civic Rights
Of course Civic Rights issue in rare cases can be solved through political movement but the consequence is not simple to imagine
If the Jeberti people are asking the same civic rights in Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia etc, I don't think they can achieve it through political means as AL-Nahda Party is trying to do
They should better re-organize themselves and fight in Civic Rights Movement form
6/1/17, 1:45 AM
Frezghi Mesmer
my God...what a monumental failure on your part.
Frezghi Mesmer
They are organized as a Civic Rights Movement. All they ask for is recognition of their history. They don't ask for land, proportional representation in military/economic/civil service, or anything concrete. The Jeberti case was the simplest case to support from a Liberal Democracy view or a Civic view. Why do you insist on putting them in the "political context" simply because Al-Nahda is a political movement is beyond me. Al Nahda is only a small party of the Jeberti movement. Every single jeberti feels left out of Eritrean history. That is a social movement with huge appeal inside their community. Just because one political party used it to create a platform and join the opposition, you lump them with genocidaires who want to create concentration camps. You lack a sense of proportion. Too many times, you hear only the voices in your head and move headlong accordingly.
Tesfabirhan
What we have is Al-Nahda as a political organization hence a Political Rights movement. If you are telling me that it is not sorry then.
For you
That is all i can say. Otherwise Al-Nahda Party that i know is a political organization
And I am criticizing it accordingly
Of course these days there is no clear difference line between Civic and Political Rights in Eritrean politics. I will not be surprised if there are crossings
But don't let me stay ignorant. What I am saying is very clear
And I put it clearly.
6/1/17, 10:52 PM
Tesfabirhan
Hello Frezghi
I hope by now we are on the same understanding on the topic I raised
I am for an absolute right of individuals/group of people to identify their destiny. I am no one to recognize people. Any human being who lives in a certain territory has rights to be who he is.
8/4/17, 11:55 PM
Tesfabirhan
Hello Frezghi
I don't think we can agree on many issues
but we will keep on our exchange
as I can see we are in opposite sides
it is good
Frezghi Mesmer
yes. I am on hte side of reality. You joined the mass hallucination of the Paltalk opposition.
Tesfabirhan
well, I believe I am on the side of reality too
I am against Mesfin from the very beginning. Check my comments at awate
four yrs ago
But you are not real
you are fake
and I am not
Frezghi Mesmer
lol. good for you. It means in four years you will not found single evidence. Which is why you only discuss rumors.
Tesfabirhan
you defend EPLF and Mesfin
while hiding
this indicates you are on the same leauge
hahaha
Please don't bring the PFDJ style - where is the evidence
please please
the more you say it the more you are sounding pfdj
I told you what I got from primary testimony
and you denied
Frezghi Mesmer
sigh....how about not being in league with mental midgets and feckless howling monkeys?: ) Its not that Mesfin is guilty or innocent. It is that those bringing the charges have nothing worthwhile to contribute.
Tesfabirhan
then if you believe that they have nothing to contribute, why you live defending
Frezghi Mesmer
Is that sworn testimony in front of a grand jury?:) NOPE. You brought hearsay from unnamed sources. You are not a journalist. Why are your unnamed sources worth anything?
Tesfabirhan
why don't you leave us
hahaha, even I am dealing with unknown person
It is like dealing with a robot eko
Frezghi Mesmer
I should say nothing positive to contribute. You contribute a lot of negativity and ineffectiveness.
Hey Tesino, you inboxed me. Feel free to stop conversating anytime.
Tesfabirhan
yah I have too
inbox you
it is a continuation of what we do in the front page
but I like to inbox you just to avoid tensions
it is kind of reducing negativity
Frezghi Mesmer
Tes, I love you as a brother. That will not change. You have a good heart. BUT, in politics, you are out of your depth. You are all over the place. The Mesfinism is a sign of giving up. A sign of defeat. It means you have given up on PFDJ in Eritrea. its easier to reach one ole pensioner in Frankfurt.
Tesfabirhan
our love is mutual and indeed with respect
but I never gave up on PFDJ
pfdj will be gone sooner
but I am more concerned on the reminants
To tell you, after hearing a lot about Mesfin, I experienced his dirty mission in person
it is since then that I felt confident to oppose him openly
Frezghi Mesmer
What did you experience? Did he not treat your ideas with respect? Mesfin has concluded that the external opposition is not worth much. I can’t say I disagree.
Tesfabirhan
No, I don't have any contact nor have I experienced directly with hm
Frezghi Mesmer
Tell me what happened. I will respond later. Have to go now. Ciao
Tesfabirhan
but I got some networks that was in rumour before
I won't tell you. I'm just telling you that I have some personal evidences
Thank you for your time. Just let us continue our civil exchange without creating unneeded tensions
8/6/17, 1:40 AM
Frezghi Mesmer
I wont spare my opinion one bit. That is another problem we have. We like our fellow anti-PFDJ supporters and dont speak truth to them often enough.
8/6/17, 10:36 AM
Tesfabirhan
Thank you for the piece of advice
But i don't think i will agree
I have to speak the truth
But i think i should know with whom i am talking
8/7/17, 6:15 PM
Frezghi Mesmer
Isn't it interesting that your "truth" is the same as a large segment of the opposition? Change requires a leader. Not a follower.
9/25/17, 8:52 PM
Frezghi Mesmer
So, you valiently exposed us Hama regionalists?
Tesfabirhan
what do you mean?
Frezghi Mesmer
Your last answer to Zaki on my post basically assumed we only care about Hamasein region.
Tesfabirhan
But who are you?
You are neither Hama nor else. I consider you just an eritrean
And what I wrote is what I believe on. If it matters to you, defend it.
Eritrea is not the land of Mythologists. It is the land of brave people and heroism. But, our religion is full of mystical views. and, indeed religion is basically born from mystical worldview.
The problem comes when this mystical worldview is tried to change it into a reality. It is different. Eritrea is full of mystics. It is the land of secrecy. But the people are not mystical. They are real, brave and determined people. This is a proved fact.
But now, there are people who are trying to make Eritrea the land of Mystic people by manipulating the mind. I feel ashamed of this political intoxication.
Let us come to the real world and fight for human rights and democracy. Eritrean people are dying.
Orally passed mythologies and legends abound in the realms of prophet proportions as aided and abetted by lack of rigorously researched material being availed up until the publication of “Menyom Eritrawyan Jebrti” earlier this year. Dr. Mustafa (2015) put the Eritrean Jebertis out of the myth into the realms of historical and cultural map, one that’s backed by over 150 scholarly references.
Whenever one mentions South Africa, “the Apartheid system” and “Nelson Mandela” are a universal flash to everyone. The first being a racial taboo imposed by the whites and the later a man who fought to end the system.
These two extremes converged at one once the Apartheid system was abolished and Mandela triumphed after his long quest to complete South African emancipation. Since then, South Africa became the hub of tolerance and human dignity.
I am not here today to talk about South Africa or the system that had ruined the rights of SOuth Africans but about silent and wierd relationship a South African Diplomat and a Communist Party of South Africa have with one of the extremely totalitarian regime in Africa, the PFDJ Regime of Eritrea.
South Africa opened its embassy in Eritrea in the year of 2004. Prior to that, there was no noticeable diplomatic relationships and I rarely read news about South Africa in the Eritrean news outlets.
However, with the assignment of new ambassador(2012), South Africa started to surface on major political, cultural and business news activities via Eritrean and some South African news outlets. But I was not aware who was behind these new movements until I came to know an Ambassador named Iqbal Jhazbhay.
The first time Ambassador Iqbal Jhazbhay came to my attention was when he participated in Bologna Festival held in July 2014 by PFDJ on the occassion of 40th anniversary of one of EPLF’s historical festival during the armed struggle. He was the only foreign diplomat who participated in the festival and delivered a speech.
Another event that forced me to pay a closer look was on October 30, 2014, when Asmara hosted first of its kind festival organized in collaboration with the office of the South African Embassy and PFDJ regime. The festival which is held on the occasion to mark 10th anniversary of Eritrean-South African ties is nothing but a political exhaustion. According to the report, Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay explained to the participants the festival will enhance the political, economic, cultural, as well as diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay : Who is he?
Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay was a South African Ambassador to Eritrea from 2012 to 2016. As an Ambassador, he had a mission to accomplish in line to the interest of South Africa in Eritrea. However, his diplomatic mission had a nature of secretive and unusual merge between business and political interests.
Inspite of some public funfares and mass media appearances, neither the people nor the country represented had any transparent and known diplomatic relationships. From what I tried to follow, it wast purely business oriented, exploitative and camouflaged friendship that aimed at extracting the natural resources of Eritrea via PFDJ and South African mining companies and active duties in the political affairs of Eritrea including in the participation of diaspora festivals and meetings organized by PFDJ. In addition, Professor Iqbal’s appeared to have a strong interest in the geo-politics of the horn of Africa, especially Somalia.
In many occasions, he appeared to represent Eritrea in diplomatic missions. Usually accompanied by Ambassador Tesfamichale Gerahtu, there could be some link between these diplomats that dates back to early 2000.
But, who is Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay and why he accompanied PFDJ officials in some important foreign meetings? Why Ambassador Tesfamichael Gerahtu had strong relationship with him?
Ambassador Tesfamichael Gerahtu’s relationship between these two ambassadors rooted back to early 2000s when the Eritrean Ambassador known for his antagonistic approach was there to dismantle the Eritrean student movement in South Africa? According to the news report, an official diplomatic relationship was launched in 2004, three years after the university student movements.
To look into the bibliography of Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay, in his linkdin profile, the following information is written.
“Iqbal Jhazbhay is South Africa’s Ambassador to the State of Eritrea. Formerly Professor at the University of South Africa and the previous Director of the Unisa Centre for Arabic and Islamic Studies. He holds a PhD in International Relations from the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa and, studied Arabic and Islamic sciences in Cairo, Riyadh, Manchester and Johannesburg.
His research interests include Islam in Somaliland and Somalia, South African Islam, Sufism, Political Islam, South African foreign policy towards North Africa and the Middle East, international relations and Islam.
He was a visiting scholar at Princeton University’s Department of Near Eastern Studies and London University’s School of Oriental and African Studies.
He has authored the book, ”Somaliland: An African struggle for nationhood and international recognition”, some twenty-two academic articles and chapters on Islamic thought, Somaliland and South African foreign policy.
He is a member of the board of directors of the Institute for Global Dialogue –an International Relations think-tank established by former President Nelson Mandela. Serves on the ANC’s NEC Sub-Committee of International Relations, its newly-formed International Relations Rapid Response Task Team and chaired the ANC’s Sudan Task Team. He previously served on the ANC’s Commission for Religious Affairs. He was elected as Rapporteur of the ANC’s International Solidarity Conference (2012).”
Well, here we get some traces of this good Ambassador to be a good fortune for PFDJ cover-up. The professor known for his academic studies related with Somalia and PFDJ’s link and involvement in the Somalia’s affairs, no one can be worth enough to be a firsthand good friend for an evil diplomatic relationships.
Of course, there are some South African companies which are operating in mining activities. And from far, the diplomatic relationships can be somehow bizarre to an observer from far and can be taken for granted. But the truth might be different especially by looking into the biography of the Ambassador and the ruling Junta. Ambassador Tesfamichael is good in this kind of diplomatic friendships and indeed his mission to South Africa is still on ground.
In an interview done with Somaliland Times on January 16, 2004, the website has also recorded Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay’s background as, “A director of Johannesburg-based Institute of Global Dialogue and is also convener of the Middle East study group at the South African Institute of International Affairs.” This shows that the professor’s presence in Eritrea is beyond his official diplomatic mission.
Eritrea has a sanction imposed by UN in relation to its link with Al-Shabab and other forces that override the peace of the horn of Africa. I do not have any information whether South Africa involves in Somalia or in other horn African countries, but the presence of this ambassador in Eritrea is something that has to be investigated further.
What the Communist Party of South Africa is doing in Eritrea?
I thought South Africa is a liberal democratic country with political parties who favor human rights. After experiencing a system of extreme racial discrimination, it is hard to imagine anyone from South Africa ignores what a dictatorial state is. Unfortunately, one of the oldest political party from South Africa is seeking alliance with one of the most brutal regime Africa has ever faced after the end of cold war.
Communist Party of South Africa was founded in 1921. For its role in the struggle against aparthaid, it was banned as a legal political party in South Africa but has played a role in the termination of Aparthaid system by allying itself with other political forces, called the Triparthite Allaince. Nevertheless, it managed to strive throughout the Aparthaid period and some of its leading members were part of the post-aparthaid government. And the party was abandoning its socialism concept and came to conclude that that Stalinism had failed. As a party it continued to exist by sharing power with African National Congress and Congress of South African Trade Unions.
Though its political influence is insignificant, the intention to expand its alliance with the Eritrean totalitarian regimes is a sign of the revival of its old political ideology. Such kind of alliance unique and it deserves full scrunity. The visit was accompanied by Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay and three other SACP members.
With the coming of Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay there was a semi-transparent relationship between SACP and its alliance with the People’s Front for Democracy and Justice(PFDJ) as it was highlighted above. What makes this relationship unique is that eventhough Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay was an ambassador who represented South Africa, what he did and still continuing to do is too strengthen the relationship at a party level.
It might seem a conspiracy theory but with the on-going geopolitical development of the horn of Africa in general and Somalia in particular, SACP and PFDJ could have a share in the affairs of Somalia. But this may seem to far. Of course, with the declining power of PFDJ, to get such kind of party to party relationship has an advantage, especially to PFDJ. As a consequence, it might have an impact on the political landscape of Eritrea. Not only this, it may also strength PFDJ’s dirty role in Ethiopian internal politics via the Somali region and in the making of Somaliland.
Observing this kind of diplomatic relationship, as an Eritrean, Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay and SACP’s alliance I can imagine its awful impact. I am saying this based on South Africa experience during the high time of oppression. Any party or organization that moves to create alliance with PFDJ can be considered either as unconsciousness about Eritrea situation or does not care about the human rights situation of citizens. And when such move comes from South African political party, it gives an alert how fast history can be forgotten.
Of course Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay will continue his dirty business, both in Eritrea and in Somalia. But, as a people and those who are fighting for our rights to be respected, any kind of alliance with the oppressor leverages to suspend our suffering. On this occasion, I call Professor Iqbal Jhazbhay and South Africa Communist Party to distance from PFDJ. Otherwise, it is against what South Africans, including SACP, fought for and against humanity. Therefore, I call them to refrain. Not only to refrain, but to help Eritrean people to fight against injustice that has been continuing since 1991.
2018 is an extremely busy year for Eritreans. The situation in Eritrea is changed from “no war – no peace” to “no peace” situation. What is not changed is the strategy that has been used by the opposition forces who are fighting against the dictatorial regime.
After Ethiopia ended its war with Eritrea through its public declaration, Eritreans continued to live under the same brutal system of administration. No change has been done so far. More than that the peace agreement signed between Eritrea and Ethiopia is not made public, be it from Eritrean or Ethiopian side.
In reaction to the secret agreement between the PFDJ Regime and EPRDF government of Ethiopia, thousands of Eritreans went to Geneva(31/08/2018) to denounce the secret deal and called Ethiopia to respect Eritrean sovereignty. The day after, on 01/09/2018, a meeting was conducted in Geneva that brought about 250 Eritreans together in order to discuss how they can better be organized in order to mobilize Eritreans and fight against injustice and stand for Eritrean sovereignty.
The meeting in Geneva was solely conducted by Eritreans themselves. No outsider was involved in any form. Individuals from different countries collaborated independently to call for a mass demonstration and attend a meeting that was meant to discuss Eritrean developments. About 13,000 Euros was raised through online campaigns to cover expenses.
The demonstration conducted on 31/08/2018 was successful. It attracted thousands of Eritreans from different countries. The meetings that were conveyed the day after was a success despite some challenges that came from an organized sectarian and fanatic group who demanded the use of Arabic language and some other demands that that were orchestrated to destruct from the main agenda of the meetings. At the end of the meeting, a seven-member committee was elected democratically to act as a person-reference in their respective countries.
The seven-member committee took a six months mandate to mobilize and organize Eritreans who live in their respective countries. So far, 100 days have already passed. I believe the committee is actively working on its mission.
Brussels Workshop
About 450 Eritreans are gathering in Brussels on December 13 & 14, 2018 to conduct a workshop among Eritreans who are fighting against the dictatorial regime in Asmara. No detail is made public about the conference except some information that was circulating by individuals through their Facebook postings. Individuals were invited to attend the meetings through private e-mail messages. I was one of those who received the email though no detail was provided about the event.
I preferred to decline the invitation simply because I received no details. I have read no formal information in any news outlet. In order to provoke some news, I tried to make people to be aware about the event through my facebook post published on 26/11/2018.
I received no positive feedback. I made my mind that there was no any other information made public. It was just a general call that was circulating via facebook.
I believe that this kind of information is not sufficient for anyone who has a genuine concern about Eritrean cause. Unless people discuss prior to their meetings openly and publically, whatever or whoever is in the meeting, it will end up without any tangible fruit. The people who attend the workshop will have no power to influence the outcome although their inputs could be incorporated in the reports that are meant mainly for the organizers.
Europe External Policy Advisors is a group formed by European academicians who work as experts in different matters that concern Europe. One of these members, Miriam Van Riesen is active in Eritrean matters. Miriam Van Riesen works with many Eritrean activists who expose the atrocities of the totalitarian regime in Asmara and human rights defenders who are working to protect Eritreans from danger.
Unlike the Geneva meetings, Brussels workshop is organized by a foreign organization. It is not made public what is the interest of Europe to organize such meetings. Neither EEPA nor any other body has so far published any information about this workshop. I am not sure if there will be any formal publications that may come after too.
Eritreans who were expecting some news about Geneva meetings got nothing. They kept silent.
I hope EEPA or any other organization(or individual) will have the courage to make information available about the Brussels conference. Otherwise, it will be a service to European academicians than being an effort to solve propblems of the people of Eritrea who are living in misery.
These days, the are a number of stressing issues that concern Eritreans most. Human rights, sovereignty issue(border demarcation), removing the dictator, Eritreans in Libya, secret agreements between Eritrea and Ethiopia, Eritreans in Europe who are left without protection and some who are waiting forced deportation, etc, are some of the key topics that need urgent discussions. I hope Brussels will discuss these issues seriously and present their resolutions/statements/recommendations to the wider public.
The New East Africa seems to move out from Marxism to embrace a vague democratic recovery lead by pseudo liberalism ideology. This is somehow a transition from the failed godless state bureaucracy to a God/god fearing government. To accomplish this, the USA invented spiritual movement is playing a great in controlling the mind of the people by replacing those already existing orthodoxy religions that were killing each other for the last 1400 years or so.
The new spiritual movementism, commonly called Pentecostalism in Christianity, or Sufism in Islam, Judiasm in Jewish religion, Yoga in Buddhism, etc. is compatible with pseudo-liberal ideas and democratix governance systems. Therefore, it is better to update the decaying mindset with a NEW but OLD methodology to control the people’s mind so easily. To accomplish this, Pentecostalism was the perfect tool.
Since its invention, Pentecostalists were prophesizing the END OF TIMES and coming of Jesus. This biblical prophesy is indirectly supported by some Muslim scholars, especially the Sufists and modetate Muslim brotherhood liberals to acknowledge the coming of Jesus and unity of Abrahamic religions. For this, all eyes were looking for the new year 2000 to be the end of the world. In fact it is the end of the world though not in its literal meaning.
The first sign of the end of the old world was the bombing of the New York twin towers in USA.Since 9/11, the world was going dramatic changes to accelerate the New World Order. Because of unfinished tasks, the creation od Jews State(Israel), there were some delays. The war that lead to the victory of Israel were not complete and there were some new financial adjustments that had to be done.
Thanks to the world economic crisis of 2008 and the killing of Osama Bin Laden, the fall of Gadafi, and rise of ISIS, al-Shabab in Somalia and Boko Haram in Nigeria, war in Yemen and Syria, etc, the movers and shakers of the world achieved great success to end the old world order and inter the New one.
East Africa conducted great military acheivement by applying Marxism revolutionary ideologies although they failed to transcend it to government systems. Somali was the best example of failures. Eritrea has lost its revolutionary ideologysince its independence in favor of One-Man party, the PFDJ.
Thanks to the late Meles Zenawi, he is the only marxist in East Africa who systematically applied revolutionary democracy for governance without betraying the core principles of Marxism/Leninism as a his political guidance. Ethiopia was successful to transform iself within 27 years of TPLF controlled central and highly bureaucratic government into a formidable country of immense economic development potentials.
Now, the end of old times and beginning of new era seems about to start in East Africa. But, what I see as key indicators for this new era seems suicide. One of this is the New East African order which is in place for implementation.
East African leaders should learn from their 2000 years history. Religion was at the center of all these chaos that dvastated the ancient civilization and which has divided the people of the Horn of Africa so deeply that we are now in a stage where unity is a rare commodity. Worse, the new Prime Minister seems confused in the separation of state and religion.
So far, the New African Order is progressing in the right direction although there are some challenges from small countries like Djibouti and the distant countries like Tanzania. Dr. Abiy AHMED , Dictator Isaias and Somalian President Farmago have come together to show their committement for the New East African Order. And, there are some positive developments with South Sudan and Kenya. Sudan is not part of the order, therefore it is not playing any role in the changes that is going on in East Africa. Because the New East African order is strictly for those countries which have direct gate to Indian Ocean and able to influence the trade routes through the Red Sea.
And, it is not only about Dr. Abiy AHMED, the ultra-revolutionary political organizations of the East of Africa, PFDJ and TPLF have betrayed their basic secular principles to embrace religion. In brief,
1. Dr. Debretsion
Unlike the GREAT Revolutionary Meles Zenawi, Dr. Debretsion betrayed Leninism and the ideology of Revolutionary Democracy poinered by Meles Zenawi and he seems to join AGAZIANISM, the rivaval of Axum civilization and Greater Tigray.
2. Dictator Isaias Afewerqi
Isaias Afewerqi betrayed for Maoism and his own corrupted version of Social Justice ideology. He seems to join monarchism, kingdom of the royal family.
3. Dr. Abiy AHMED
The grand winner and the new pseudo-Liberalist, Dr. Abiy AHMED, who seems to experiment Pentecostalism in East Africa, is at the highest throne to represent the throne of ONE ETHIOPIA as ordered ubder the new map of East Africa.
Dr. Abiy AHMED is believed to be the God(?) sent new Neo-Liberalist leader. His ideology is not clear but it seems he is urdent follower of Pentecostalism, a new spiritual movement that preaches the biblical prophesy of end of times and return of Jesus the lord, in short, the New World Order.
Although he seems to embrace liberal democracy, he is in confusion between democratic governance system and monachism. And, I do not think Dr. Abiy AHMED will be the ideal person to lead the New East African Order. He will be just a useful pseudo-liberalist that could help Ethiopian transition from revolutionary democracy to liberal democracy through the help of the hidden hands of powerful forces.
These two extremes converged at one once the Apartheid system was abolished and Mandela triumphed after his long quest to complete South African emancipation. Since then, South Africa became the hub of tolerance and human dignity.
