The latest results announced by the election board gave EPRDF 296 parliamentary seats--past the 274 it needs for a majority... Reuters, Aug 9

The main opposition Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) said it would not accept the result. "We will not accept it. We will challenge it in court," CUD's Berhanu Nega said... Reuters

"The parties should accept the final results which have come after an investigation process that was long but also transparent," said electoral board chairman Kemal Bedri.

It is time to move on.

It was expected. The board is supposed to serve the ruling party. The opposition should not go to the court as Berhanu Nega said, they should leave the parliament or else they would be puppets of Meles!

What a shame

Email: mastmelese@yahoo.com

City: India

Yes, move on back to dictatorship, poverty, starvation, misery...

Moderator,

The fact that the court serves the interest of the TPLF, bringing the case to court might be a futile attempt. Even the forein observers drew a conclusion that the court would certainly decide in favour of the incumbant regieme.

The opposisions could face a real problem if they do not accept the obvious politically prescribed decision of the court.

If they do so they will make the second mistake, the first being trusting the election board.

My suggestion for the oppositions is ..........

Email: kinfuassefa@gmail.com

City: Amsterdam

The peoples vote has been stolen at gun point. The fascists declared a state of emergency, they massacred the people, they have continued to arrest and torture the people, they still hold thousands of political prisoners in jail up and down the country, disease and starvation is killing thousands every day. ARE THE WOYANE FASCISTS TELLING US THAT THE eTHIOPIAN PEOPLE VOTED FOR THIS.

Kemal,
May you be judged in life and death the way you passed judgement on Ethiopian people.
By the way,why was it you prevented Ethiopian election observers from observing in the rural areas and Madeliene Albright's vote monitoring team?

Email: zghiwet

City: York

CUD/UEDF seems to be not ready for any sacrifice because they know that this is another rubber stump visit to Kemal Berdi Himself. Let them not ask Meles anything more and avoid another definition for “sore loser” by gracefully and silently exhausting of all the Court process. Let them not complain anymore about court. That would make them the butt of all satire in the western world. Finally CUD/UEDF should just only tell their followers that they did what they could legally and show up for work the next day after Mr. Kemal's second decision as the court judge with out accepting any loss. If Meles forces try to fight for acceptance, let them go to court insisting on their right to start work with out any acceptance. When beginning work let them show their united opposition on all possible parliamentary procedures. So Much for our doctors, I am glad I did not attend AAU. All of this fast wrapping up move by EPDRF is came from the stupid begging because EPDRF now knows there is no real and imminent danger. All you stupid people who supported the proposal look what happened now.

Moderator!

Be steadfast in your believe as it is not worthy to travel in the direction of where the wind blows.

go to court?! who is the judge there? does dr berhanu know that kemal bedri is chief of the supreme court, the same kemal bedri who is also the chair of the election board? what a joke!

It is time for Dr. Berhanu and Dr. Beyene to hand over the sword to the real fighters. They should go back to classes and give the usual lectures to their students. Now, they are in the wrong court. They should not insist on staying there. they should know that fire does not come only from one direction.
Yazew.

Email: alemayehumek@yahoo.com

City: London

Desta,
you said "go to court?" I think it is a good Idea to go to court.
It is known that both the election board and the court are drama places that favour only the EPRDF but not the Ethiopian people. Oppositions were first supposed to finish all the peacful and legal means, they should see them exhausted. And the Ethiopian people once and for all will then learn and makes sure that election board and court are not working for the people but for the the dictators and and murderes of the EPRDF. Then the people and the opostion will take their next necessary actions.
So good to finish the last legal means.

Email: peace2eth@yahoo.ca

City: Calgary

Dr berhanu nega is a very dengerous spy and he has big mission to destroy cud and its mission.he said once again that he take them to the court.He is saying just what meles want him or told him to say.we know who are the judges and we dont want to take our case to court we have many ways left to force meles to step down,one of the plan is to tell the public not to obey for the current regime until meles step down.
Email: wonder@yahoo.com

Email: wonder@yahoo.com

By now, we should be convinced beyond any reasonable doubt that Berhanu Nega is buying time for Meles Zenawi.

He executed a brilliant strategy on behalf of Meles. He formed a political party on the eve of the elections, persuaded key political personalities to split from UEDF and form CUD. He pushed CUD to ignore the preconditions put forward by UEDF, which included the dismantling of the National Election Board. The oppositions are paying a hefty price for that disastrous move. In the aftermath of the elections, when students protested the rigged elections, once again, Berhanu Nega came to Meles’ rescue. He blamed the innocent students and rushed to sign the truce, another coward move.

Under the disguise of lobbying the international community, he has hijacked the struggle. He has become the supreme spokesperson for the opposition, preventing other genuine opposition leaders from coming forward to defend the public’s interests.

After all his endless mishaps, Berhanu wants to go to the TPLF court to fight the National Election Board’s decision. Only Berhanu can explain why the woyane court will rule against TPLF handpicked National Election Board. One can suspect that he is suggesting this rubbish idea to appease the anxiously waiting public with a clear intent to help Meles to move strategically. Berhanu is a very dangerous guy who should be castigated from the struggle. He is Meles’ boy, not our.

Remember, he is on the record saying that his objective for joining the May 2005 elections is to place himself in a strategic position for elections 2010. How many innocent Ethiopians must perish to fulfill the political ambition of Berhanu Nega? The opposition leaders must free themselves from Berhanu. Yes, show Berhanu the Door, he is not on our side!

YAGERE SEWOCH,
IT WAS SAD TO LEARN THAT ETHIOPIA IS THE FIRST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD WHO WON THE WAR,BUT LOST HER LAND(BADME). HER PEOPLE WON THE ELECTION THE BANDITS ROBBED THE VOTES.

Email: GOBEZ NA.COM

City: HOUSTON

HT - Let me ask you a simple question. Who presented the names of members of the election board to the House of Representatives' approval?

Meles - The National Election Board, the current board, was appointed over a decade ago, during the transitional period, and at that period, at that time, the president submitted the names to the parliament. Now if we were to appoint new election board members, it would be the prime minister, which would put the names to the parliament.

HT - Where were you at that particular time?

Meles - I was the president of the Transitional Government.

HT - You were the president?

Meles - Yes.

HT - So you still put forward the names?

Meles - Yes I did.

HT - Well, I think perhaps that's the point I am trying to get to. You put forward all the names of the people who are on the Electoral Board?

Meles - Uhm!

Email: nina@hotmail

City: Baltimore

I think this is the right time to think and act carefully.
Dr.Brahanu , Dr.Beyene and all of the opposition leaders. This is the time to take very carefull measures. You should act wisely . I think this is the time to unite , talk and act rather than displaying fractures .split the problem and try to look at the outcome
Going to court
• The result of this courte is also a predicted one, you will definitely loose. I have heard you once “the court , the police and all the governmental institutions EPRDF controlled”. Why are you going to this court if you know the outcome???
• Going to court might be good, if you are planning to finish the legal procedures (to say we have gone through the legal process), but it will be giving more chances for EPRDF.
Forming a coalition
• EPRDF has already cancelled your request to form a coalition,

I think if this were your solution they have already failed. I think you need to talk and look for a better solution.
Go to your people and listen to them. They have voted for you and they have died for you , they are still looking for your brilliant ideas to join your way. Don’t get afraid, do what you think is right(what your peoples desire), don’t hesitate to face the reality. Don’t give up.
Look if you say no, EPRDF will never succeed, but if you say yes you are helping to go further.
Del le Ethiopians
eskeatnaf

Email: eskeww@yahoo.com

City: Amsterdam

Congra TFLF.
Melese PM (since 1991- infinity), Genet- Education(since 1991- infinity), Berket -Information(since 1991- infinity), Tefera(since 1991- infinity), Addisu(since 1991- infinity), Kasssu(since 1991- infinity), kemal(since 1991- infinity)every bosy is ...... "everlasting tyranny, dictotor, bloodthrist......" can result to everlasting starvation, underdevlopment, partisiasm, favorism....
Why so do we had undertaken election????? Thanks to Tedy Afro- "lewt mech meta".

It is not surprising that EPRDF announced its winnership.Rather what is very surprising is the decision by the oppositions to bring the case to the court.This shows that opposition leaders are in a state of great fear,incapable to lead the struggle of the people towards the respect of its vote and democracy by the ruling party.What the opposition leaders are now trying to do is to buy out time with a hope that this might give them a way out and relief from the current pressure of both the public and EPRDF, and to finally shy away from the struggle.I personally believe that leading the case to the court will become another futile attempt only benefiting EPRDF and puring cold water again on the struggle of the people.What is expected from the oppostion leaders now is to make their decision public that they are incapable and unable to fulfill the trust of thier voters due to fear of political determination and sacrifices or else become loyal oppositions and puppets of the EPRDF regime in the upcoming parliament.Ethiopians are fade up of thier jargon procedures.

Email: abendale@hotmail.com

City: Arlington,USA

Why do you let your emotion eats you alive? You are irresponsible people to call names of the opposition party leader who faces all the danger and fight peacefully inside their people, you? far away from the heat and yet you priscrbe violence to the poor people of Ethiopiaa. You all are for vendetta not out of concern to your people and country. Ethiopia is a nation with a constitutionall citizens have to abide by the constitution hence the measure taken by the opposition is leagal and procedural but you Diaspora arm chair analysts say CHE FERSE in a closed door and want to see the blood of the poor flow for your inflated ego. You are really and expense to both your host and birth countries.

Email: jandeber@aol.com

City: Atlanta

It is time to change gear to non-violence civil disobidenace,and strike.

I suggest there should be a national stike starting with Banks employees,Ethiopain airlines employess, taxi drives, the police, the army, govenment employee.

With an empty bank they can't even perform a wire transfer from the National Bank of Ethiopia. Then it time to see Meles and his wife together with his Ambassoders like Berhane and taking a long walk rusing to pull their stolen million from the U.S banks.

I suggest we Ethiopains will bring them to justice.
After all EFRDF can't have a defacto government, in few week we Ethiopains will have our nation back.

I suggest people start reading and educating themselves about Waging Non Violence struggle again EFRDF

Here is a link for " The Albert Einstein Instituion" From Dictotorship to Democracy.
http://www.aeinstein.org/organizations.php3?orgid=88&typeID=14&action=printContentTypeHome

Kebede,

I think what you seggested of reading the book that teaches the non-violent method of struggling is a good idea. I roughly tried to look at the front pages of the website you mentioned. All Ethiopians who have a desire to save our nation and to participate in the continuation of the struggle aaginst the home grown fascists of the Meles Zenaw regime, it may be important to read the books.

Email: peace2eth@yahoo.ca

City: Calgary

I suggest to most of you to continue to do what you are best at. There isn't one sole in the Diaspora that has the moral ground to make an action call for the opposition in Ethiopia. The call to take an appropriate action at the right time is the job of the opposition and civic leaders. We are impatient because we probably have nothing to do in our spare time. The opp. leaders in Ethiopia are working day and night on strategizing their action to come. So lets be patient. Some of you are trying to create an impression that all the CUD leaders are dam and Dr. Berhanu someway has hijacked the leadership and is doing whatever he wants. You guys are either EPRDF's cadres or unskilled politicians. Believe it or not a lot of discussion is happening in CUD and Dr. Berhanu is executing the majority decisions of the CUD council..

City: TN

Well, this is another test for the government for saying there is freedom and democracy in Ethiopia.
Three months of counting votes definitely shows huge election problems in the country. Obviously, Ethiopians are dismayed and outraged by the election results. Because the people were not convinced about the validity of the election the government will have a big problem to stay in power. Before shoving re-counts in their throats the government should listen to the people’s voice.

Email: amelaman@sbcglobal.net

What if the oppositions had lost the election for real. We only hear from YOU chatter boxes that it was stolen, people's vote was stolen. aay! ay! it was stolen. Isn't time you grow up, accept the reality that There are winners and losers. Don't you know that War mongering is the last thing destitute Ethiopia needs.

If the opposition groups were determined to work for the people, they need to show their convictions by peacfully accepting seats and keeping the struggle for better Ethiopia. They need to be a beacon of hope for democratic process, and true leadership. The people of Ethiopia will remember, respect, and reward them for their sacrifices

But IF they refuse to accept the business of the people then they stand for what? What makes them deserve more? just because they belong to .... what?.
You Kept telling us they are well-to-do, well born(kebre negest), and well-rounded well .. well.. well then it is TIME for reality check.

show us the money!!!!

Those of you who support Meles expect the rest of Ethiopia to pretend that everything is great, ignore the killings and all the torturing of innocent people.

- 17 million people starving.
- The education system has never gotten worse, unless you are Tigrian or have money.
- Two million people being moved around without any consideration for their views or feelings.
- Over 60 people killed in Addis Ababa, and his excuse is they are unemployed. Does Meles know most people in Ethiopia are very poor and unemployed.
- Two Ethiopian pilots where are they, their families have never seen them.
- Ethnic division
- Land in Addis Ababa being sold at cheap price.

Should we ignore these few points, shame on you TPLF supporters. Just for your selfish comfort, you expect the rest of us to accept the horror that is facing our country.

The news came as expected. Every body knows that NEB's decision could not be far from what they have finally declared today.

This is going to be a tough time for Ethiopians in general and particularly for the oppositions.

they need to be not disturbed and should stay bonded as had been since the election time.

oppositions:--

please play cool & wisely. do not expect any positive responce from EU, USA .....
the ball is in your court. do not try to walk out of the race. you need to be heros !!!

THE FRONT RUNNERS ARE ONLY YOU. GO IN TO THE PEOPLE, CONSULT THEM, LISTEN AND ACT ACCORDINGLY TO SATISFY THEIR NEED. THE PEOLE ARE WITH YOU NO DOUBT FOR THIS.

YOU NEED TO FACE AND CHALLENGE IT AND YOU WILL WIN.

it is very hard to be a leader in this tye of process, but there is no way out.

please act timely and wisely. avoid tomorrow and make use of today.

those of us living abroad shall refrain from using bad words and labeling the leaders of the oppositions, we shall feel the situation as we are with them in Addis.

let us back them up to be united towards forming one country and one people.

let God be with Ethiopia & Ethiopians.

Email: yamral-negussu@yahoo.com

City: washington

Step by step democracy will come. Be patient ethiopian people.

Next steps for the opposition :
1. STAY UNITED, see the long term, don't be disturbed by daily political problems.
2. Sit in parlement and build your own capacity for the future. Make yourself more strong. You will have access to many documents. Control most of all the budget.
3. Prepare at grassroot level the Woreda elections. For the people of Ethiopia, the first oppression they feel is coming from Woreda. So win a maximum of Woreda elections.
4.Work together with Mister Clarck of EU on a democratic media, like he wrote in the letter to the current Minister of Information.
5. Organise peacefull meetings every 3 weeks on sunday, like the sunday before elections. One week for asking the independent committee concerning the killings of June, another week for asking the freedom of press, the other week for changing the NEBE etc...

6. Make peace with Eritrea, people from both sides wants peace and living together. The wall in Berlin didn't stay 40 years.
7. Be a good manager of the AA council, no corruption, people-centered.
8.Include pastoralists in your parties and work closely with farenjis.
9. Condemm all violence, if you are for democracy, you cannot be for violence. Don't use violence and stay polite in political discussions. Give example to the people.
10. Open the eyes of Ethiopians. All people are finally the same. Ethnic division is only made by egoists for their own benefit.
11.By your acting you have to show the EU and USA that you are able to be a stable factor in the Horn.

12. Be hopefull and positive :Nobody can stop the will of the people.
13.Never forget that you only got the votes of the people simply because they had enough of the current governement. So, you have to prove every day that you are better. The people expectations are high! Prepare yourself!!

GOOD LUCK ETHIOPIAN PEOPLE !!

Compare the political situation 6 monts back and now, a big progress, isn't it ?
Be patient, by working hard every day for democracy, democracy will come!!

Email: bonjor123@yahoo.com

City: europe

The declaration by the cheap opportunist Kemal Bedri that TPLF-EPRDF won was a foregne consclusion. This truth would continue to plunge the country into uncertainity, economic slowdown, confrontation, disobedience, cleavage and rift between government and people, disrespect for the state, enemity with the government and woithdrawal of the people from public affairs. At the same time, the oppoition would be faced with a testing time to side with the people or the Europeans.

The declaration of the NEB was an endorsement of a fake election result. This could be a success for TPLF but it is a loss for all Ethiopians (including to the peoples falsely represented by OPDO, ANDM, SEPDC.) Only the TPLF continues to benefit from this.

City: Addis Ababa

Like many Ethiopians I came to a conclusion that CUD needs to show to Dr.Berhanu Nega the way out.He is working for Meles and I suspect also he is the one who was passing all discussed information held at CUD meetings word by word to Meles and Bereket.While he used to live in the Washington area,I am told by his close friends that he was top TPLF supporter and a drinking budy of the late Kinfe Gebre Medihin,the noterious tplf Security chief,after he returned to Addis Ababa.I do not want to mention his personal life.From what I heared It is disgusting even to talk about it on this forum and is not important to us.What makes me sad is he is the Judah among us in the struggle against the tplf fascist regime.
Before he makes us further damage he must be stoped from giving any statement on behalf of CUD.He is doing the work of Meles.
What court he is talking about unless he is doing Melese's agenda.Kemal Bedri,Chairman of NEBE is also the president of the Woyane Court.What kind of justice he is expecting from a woyane cadre.It is insulting to the Ethiopian people to think even about it.
I salute other true leaders of CUD including the president Ato Hailu Shawil, and also Dr.Merera of UEDF for your determination and firm stand.You have our utmost respect and we are with you until Victory.
It is time for Berhanu Nega to find another profession,like having his own bar.Ethiopia and Ethiopians will not tolerate a political prostitute Like him who is eager to make a profit out of their misery.WE have thousands and thousands of Doctors who are ready to stand against Meles for the good of their nation.Though it is not important Some even doubt his Phd(for those living in the US we know that some institutions give even Phd as long as you pay).One can be the worlds top idiot with a Phd from unknown university.He knows from which school he graduated.
Berhanu must be kicked out of CUD before he makes further damage to the movement and personal safety of CUD leadres.
The opposition must ignore the court and needs to boycott the so-called parliament and use all peaceful civil disobedience to bring down this regime.Work strike can be one example to start with.
The people will win at the end.

City: Alexandria

On "the apparent disunity among the opposition"

What if, what if...what if...
The opposition leadership is appearing 'divided' on the surface for a purpose?

Have you thought of that possibility?

I have reasons to believe the leaders have lots of common sense! They certainly aren't a bunch of idiots acting childishly in the face of a formidable enemy. I think they know too well, EPRDF will eat their flesh, crash their bones and suck the marrows thereof too...anytime.

Yes, there is a case to be made why they are appearing fractured.

Just a thought.

Ajirea

Congratulations to EPRDF, This is a begining of a good start. i think it's better for the oppostion to accept what they got, they can't keep saying we didint lose. Ethiopia knows who she voted and IT's EPRDF!!! We saw it together

Email: dawit@yahoo.com

City: Addis Ababa

ADDIS ABABA, Aug 9 (AFP) — One of Ethiopia’s two main opposition groups said on Tuesday it will challenge in court the official results from the disputed May elections which gave victory to the ruling party.

Beyene Petros, vice president of the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), said the returns were flawed and the result of a conspiracy between the national election board and the ruling party to ignore opposition allegations of widespread fraud in the May 15 polls.

"We have tested the (election board), which has failed to do its job and now with all the evidence and witnesses we have, we are going to challenge the (board’s) official announcement of the winner and the result in the court," he told AFP.

"Today’s announcement of the final result and the winner in the election proves our predication that the national election board will do its assignment to declare the ruling party as winner and nothing else," Beyene said.

When combined with victories by allied parties, the ruling Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) controls a total of 318 seats in the 547-member parliament and the opposition 174, according to the results released by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) Tuesday.

Ethiopia’s two main opposition groups, the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) and the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), took 109 and 52 seats respectively in the May 15 polls, the board said

Dr.Berhanu has told us several times that CUD will go to Woyane's court to challenge Woyane. I wish I know what exactly he is thinking or trying to accomplish.What is his expectation from Kemal Bedri who is the chief for both the court and NEB. Anyway, my little instinct tell me that the so called court will decide anything for Woyane. I don't think Dr.Berhanu will deny that. If that is the case, why he really wanted to go to court?

One thing I didn't hear from him so far is his decision after the court ruling. Is he going to join the parliament? So far, it appears he will.

For me the Ethiopian people are my COURT not Woyane's court. I will appeal to my people to do whatever they can to regain their vote.I will call for WORK STRIKE, DEMONSTRATIONS IN EVERY PART OF THE COUNTRY and the World.Woyane will hear by then and will come to the negotiation table.

To Mina, I 100% gree with your point as simple as it is. When we like or dislike things we should have reason and do what need to be done. What has been done by EPRDF for the last 14 years are the key factors. The resent killing of young students who were trying to portect the peoples voice is the priorty-one that we all of us should think. Before then, look at the new Educational system, National defense system. The landlack of the country, the war between Ertrea and the separation of the people by their Ethinicity. The increase of the starved people. E.T.C. How Can anyone imagine to say EPRDF is the winner for the 97 election. Ethiopians are smarter than that to whom the gave their voice. History will pay to those who barried peoples voice.

i am very mad

What a mess!

What is the matter with the oppositions?

WHICH COURT ARE THEY GOING? another chance for zenawi.
People want their vote by any ways, If they can't leade the uprising, let them go.Ethiopians can't be slaves for another day let alone Years.

Email: b@kassa.ca

City: canada

Betmenja anigezam!!!!!!!!!

Email: nina@hotmail

City: addis

Lijye,You must be the real Woyane.You are after Getahun because he exposed your(TPLF)man hiding in CUD working to kill the people's movement against Meles.Yes it is time for CUD to show Dr.Birhanu Nega and the likes of him the door.The damage has already been done.TPLF AND Melese's days are numbered.
By the way the TPLF killer army will not have even the chance to beg on the streets of Addis.But begging on the streets of Mekele will be their Democratic right.
The Government of TPLF will soon be histort by the Ethiopian people struggle.This is the ultimate truth,Lijye bandaw.Try to live with it.
Listean to Todays German Radio interview and you will see how Dr. Berhanu is caught lying about the letter he released in the name CUD without approval from other senior CUD officials.

City: Alexandria

For sure we do not want to see a single drop of blood to spill in the land of Ethiopia any more. For sure we do not want to see even a single vote to be stolen anyway by any party. Even God did not compromise the votes and wishes of Israelis when they wanted to vote for their first King ( Soul) than the elect of God, Samuel, no matter what the consequences of their choice.

So what should we do? Can any one claim to be above the most high?

This is a joke by opportunist Dr. Berhanu. He had a plan to join Woyane's parliament when he accept election under woyane's NEB. I do not want to hear any more BS. If there is any real opposition against Woyane, they must show other means of struggle. Let the other means of struggle start.

Email: yilmagirma@yahoo.com

City: Denver

Unless the Hyenas of the jungle cast their vote for Woyane thugs, I do not see the thug winning ten seats. There is no other option but fight these thugs up to the end.

Going to court is a poor decision because the verdict is obvious and the international community ignores the relations between weyane and courts, so they (EU, U.S) might expect them to abide by the court order. Thus, it is a big mistake to go to court, in my opinion. Instead, it is the best time to call for civil disobedience and general strike. After all, what's the differnce b/n Election board and weyane courts. Are they really expecting different outcome?

UEDF/CUD look inward, don’t look for Ethiopian political solution from the outside, especially from the West, after the west never had our best interest at heart, the leaders of the opposition, if you have time I suggest you read book written by John Spencer “Ethiopia at Bay” or Zewedie Reta famous book “Ye Eritrea Gudaye.”

The only time the western world care about Africa in general is when there is an interest of oil, or few thousand white settlers are conficisated of the prime farming land.

You have the support of Ethiopian people, do what is right!!!!

A liberation struggle is time for self-reliance and internal strengthening of the struggle group.

This is what Charles Stewart Parnell had to say during the Irish rent strike campaign in 1879 and 1880.

‘t is no use relying on the…… government……. You must only rely upon your own determination…….Help yourself by standing together…..strengthen those amongst yourselves who are weak…….. band yourself together, organize yourself…..you must win….

When you have made this made this question ripe for

I suggest to most of you to continue to do what you are best at. There isn't one person in the Diaspora that has the moral ground to make an action call for the opposition in Ethiopia. The call to take an appropriate action at the right time is the job of the opposition and civic leaders in Ethiopia. We are impatient because we probably have nothing to do in our spare time. The opp. leaders in Ethiopia are working day and night on strategizing their action to come. So lets be patient. Some of you are trying to create an impression that all the CUD leaders are dam and Dr. Berhanu someway has hijacked the leadership and is doing whatever he wants. You guys are either EPRDF's cadres or unskilled politicians. Believe it or not a lot of discussion is happening in CUD and Dr. Berhanu is executing the majority decisions of the CUD's council.

UEDF/CUD look inward, don’t look for political solution from the outside world, especially from the West, after the west never had our best interest at heart, the leaders of the opposition, if you have time I suggest you read book written by John Spencer “Ethiopia at Bay” or Zewedie Reta famous book “Ye Eritrea Gudaye.”

The only time the western world paid attention to Africa in general is when there is oil, or few thousand white settlers are kicked out from prime farming land they robbed from Africans in Zimbawee.

You have the support of Ethiopian people, do what is right!!!! The whites have contempt for us, don’t you read the news even Jeffery Sachs have turned against the Ethiopian people. We are note at Brooklyn, NY. .Remember Dr. Berhanu the judiciary is not independent of ERDF Meles government.

We need a liberation struggle for self-reliance and internal strengthening of the struggle group.

This is what Charles Stewart Parnell had to say during the Irish rent strike campaign in 1879 and 1880.

‘t is no use relying on the…… government……. You must only rely upon your own determination…….Help yourself by standing together…..strengthen those amongst yourselves who are weak…….. band yourself together, organize yourself…..you must win….

When you have made this made this question ripe for settlement, then and not till then will be settled.”

Who is ruling the court? TPLF and NEB members. Is Justice in our court? Absolutely not. It was known the vote rigging investigation outcome even before it was started. In my understanding it was worst than anticipated while the TPLF cadres (meles, bereket, Arkebe,---) used it as another opportunity to cheat again the vote they already had lost. After the Election meles was left alone while almost all his ministers and loyalists were lost the Election. He is now working hard through criminal ways to get back Bereket Simon, Defense Minister, the so called Oromia president and others through re-election.

The oppositions and the Ethiopian people must not accept the election the way as it is. If the oppositions agree to take part in the parliament where 2/3 the parliament is in meles's hand, it will be very, very grave mistake any Ethiopian ever made against the country. As they approved with their signature the vote investigation process knowing NEB was/is the TPLF servant, I hope they will not repeat again joining a parliament created with illegal 2/3 majority purposely to destroy Ethiopia. Any opposition without mandate to have influence in the parliament is there to serve the majority to legitimate the policies in a democratic process in order to eliminate objections the generations to come. As soon as the oppositions entered to the parliament with no power to influence the parliament decision, the Ethio-Eritrea demarcation going to sign, the worst Ethnic policies going to implement and many bad things going to happen to our country. After 15 may election TPLF changed many policies in the parliament and mainly they did everything to affect the Addis Ababan 4-5 million people which are much more than the people of the whole Tigry, what the opposition are going to do about this? Because of the vote rigging, our young people and mothers massacred by meles's private militia and he admitted giving order to kill, many are still in prison, what the oppositions are going to do about? Meles admitted he handpicked the NEB, what are thinking the oppositions about? The Tigrian people didn't get the right to vote, instead they forced to fill one ballot box at every election station where only the TPLF candidate were, what the oppositions and the people of tigray doing about it?
Now the oppositions are going to challenge the NEB decision in court. Do they know who is waiting them there and for what purpose? The TPLF cadres who are controlling the justice system, NEB, as kehadi kemal is the president of the Supreme Court and others with bad in their head are waiting them. I think the oppositions have to have another strategy. Their power and strength must be the mass not the NEB or court. They have to have very clean, clear and tie relationship with the people. Peace and violence are the two sides of one coin. If the one is not working that means the other will. But if you don’t care non of them is working. Tell the truth about what is going on and the people have the right to decide the outcome. You can't win a battle legally with against someone who is illegal and decided to win by anymeans even before the game started. This is the TPLF is exactly doing. as long as the mass is tot taking its matter on hand together with the opposition, TPLF will never admit the defeat for the sake of the country. they don't care about Ethiopia.

Email: Ghion@hotmail.com

Brutus or no Brutus,we-the Ethiopians,clearly understood ,from early staging,that the 'Democracy' drama ,which Meles and his Co. produced ,was defective as it was run by a wrong director as well as funny stage manager.With suspension of disbelief political groups and the voting public participated in their theatre but they could not pass the stark melodrama with a mere 'suspension of disbelief'.Hereafter,I don't know if we are waiting for another court related gimmick .The time is ripe for breaking the illussion.Here ,at this juncture of red hot time ,it should not be the point to talk about few individuals who might impede our progress,but to strike forward in all our power to bring something plausible for each and everyone of us.LET"S GALVANIZE OUR FORCE AND OUR RESOURCES

Email: efrembsaba@aol.com

City: Arlington

I beg those of you who are currently far away from the political epicentre to be patient and wait the decision of CUD and UEDF. you are supposed to be constructive and not destructive. As I see it most of you are opting for a suicidal mission and that will not bring the desired fruit we all want to see in our country. In my humble opinion, the opposition leadership has shown remarkable maturity than ever and it is my sincere wish that this will continue. We all want your constructive support and I want you to gauge the situation through your families and friends in Ethiopia.

ER still owes us an appology and should retract its divisive and unfounded statement, from the website.

Email: mamushababa@yahoo.com

City: Addis Ababa

First of all, I really appreciate the initiatives and propsal of coallition Gov't , that is the right and matured move for a peaceful transition, though it doen't represent the peoples vote. But I do not understand why CUD needs to go to Court as ordered by Weyanes. Do we really make a differnce in doing so. I would ruther feel that such a move is supportted by Weyanes because it will legitmetise their strategic move. Please lets think twice and and let also not disappont the people. We had a great deal of belief in CUD and live alone such a move, a sligtest mistake will disapoint the people at large. How on earth you legitmetize weyanes false poll result in acourt process. Is that why the people fought for? We need to resume a peacefull Stragle, That is the only way out. Pls. let's not disappoint the people who voted for you.

Email: melamzena@yahoo.com

City: Addis Abbaba

Going to court is really mind-boggling as to how cud is going to carry on the struggle from this pont on.Why go to court when people there are two sides of a coin with the national election board.Eprdf will get a verdict and hunger,opression,partition will resume.I think the opositions have to be ken on their next step.They should be able to unite the people acrsoss Ethiopia and call for peacefull demonestrations aswell as civil disobediance.If done in a very organized manner,the overwhelming number of people who voted for the opposition would overthorow weyane for once and for all.For people in diapora,it seems like we running out of patience.We should know we are being traitors for people who have put thier lives in the line of fire.Especially some of your comments on respected Dr birhanu is nausating.I am sure as some one said,he is working hand in hand with the party to help usher what is best to Ethiopia.He has proven that being on the spotligh unlike many of you.so plese stop pullins a stunt.

Email: doctordo44@yahoo.com

City: Losangeles

Ethiopian opposition vows to fight ruling party
election victoryADDIS ABABA, Aug 10 (AFP) -


Ethiopia's opposition on Wednesday vowed to fight the final results of disputed May elections, accusing the victorious ruling party of "burglary" in the "most illegitimate process ever."

A day after the national election board declared Prime Minister Meles Zenawi's Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) the winner of the May 15 polls, the head of the main opposition group seethed with anger.

"I have no words to describe it," said Hailu Shewal, the chairman of the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD), which has led opposition protests over alleged massive fraud in the voting and investigation of complaints.

"It the most illegitimate process I have ever seen in my life, even in a beginning democracy, where the winner is declared the loser and the absolute loser is declared the winner," he told AFP.

"It is not rigging as some call it, it is simple burglary," Hailu said. "Meles' government has lost the election and we are not going to accept the results declared by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia."

On Tuesday, the board released long-delayed official election results giving the EPRDF an absolute majority in the 547-seat parliament, confirming preliminary returns that sparked protests and deadly clashes in the capital in June.

The CUD and its opposition partner, the United Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF), immediately rejected the results and said they would challenge them in court, although no such action has yet been taken.

In addition to the court challenge, Hailu said the CUD would consider mounting peaceful protests, strikes or a campaign of civil disobediance.

At least 36 and as many as 40 people were killed in Addis Ababa in June during demonstrations against alleged election fraud but Hailu said the opposition was committed to non-violence and any action would respect the Ethiopian constitution.

"Our action will be within the limits of our constitutional rights," he said. "If the ruling party wants to turn it violent, it could be, but as far as we are concerned it will be a peaceful one to protest against injustice."

http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/RWB.NSF/db900SID/EVOD-6F5BL6?OpenDocument


"In addition to the court challenge, Hailu said the CUD would consider mounting peaceful protests, strikes or a campaign of civil disobediance."


Mr. Shawel, what is the need to go to court while Kemal Bedri is the principal player both in NEB and in the court???

Email: walta@yahoo.com

City: addis

The main opposition parties should accept the results.
From the beginning up to now on average the whole process is fair and transparent.So I am not clear why they go to court? If they do it, their evil conducts will be further exposed.

Email: hawelttariku@yahoo.com

City: Addis Ababa

It was more than 100 % expected that Melse would get more advantages than opposition parties by his election board. This was more than clear for all

To me even all opposition parties would be defiantly the losers if reelection would rerun in Ethiopia. I remember during hard talk Meles clearly indicated that he would gain more seats from oppositions if reelection rerun in the country.

I appreciate Meles even he could take all the seats because he is everything and can do everything in that country.

I really don’t understand why opposition parties continue to challenge Meles in the court. As the decision result is quiet obvious beforehand. It is so useless and boring ideas for the people.

Look still the opposition parties didn’t get any chance for the mass media. This is the simplest one for me.

I think opposition parties need to be wise enough to take a wise actions. They have ample experiences what Meles is thinking, talking, doing practically.

No need of conducting another experiment on Meles regime now. The research has been done well for the last 14 years.

Email: kuratekere@yahoo.com

City: Ambo

'Hence it was expected that they would be holding a press conference condemning Ato Lidetu and praising Dr Birhanu tomorrow, Wednesday in Ethiopia. This is the worst treason and unbelievable betrayal of their colleague and country for someone who just joined CUD and brought great shame and dishonour to CUD and all those who fought for years and died for it too. Therefore, I think a strong message should be sent from EDUP members, supporters and the general public around the world about Dr Admasu and others not to stab Ato Lidetu in the back to only make our enemies happy and then securing some positions for themselves within EPRDF. '

Bekele

Aster, do you want to destroy EDUP just because Lidetu is your hero? In the first place, Lidetu should should be advised to abide by party descipline. I think Lidetu should respect the decision of the majority in his party and CUD.

Email: mamushababa@yahoo.com

City: Addis Ababa

Dear Ethiopian:
The majority of Ethiopian people have spoken and threw its weight behind EPRDF for a few reasons.
First, CUD does not have an inclusive programme and in its inception reject the will and aspirations of the majority of Ethiopian people. In other words, in the summer 0f 2003 in Maryland, CUD did not want to see a person from the south to be in the helm of power and set up its own organization consisted of four parties and Dr. Beyene, the charismatic and humble leader, has decided to distance and form its organization. No wonder, the people in Diaspora have already put in jail and sentenced Dr. Berhanu Nega without leagal process and misquoted and showered him with insult when he said that he will work with what legal system that exist in Ethiopia and not to appeal to Western world and violence a la Negede style.
Second, CUD does not have a single programme that will attract the "Liberation Fronts " such as OLF and ONLF to work with them. For example, the leader of OLF told to the VOA that the election was a theater of Northern and he left to be bury with insult and deragotory statements from the foot solderis of CUD and UEDF that he thought they will challenge him.
Third, CUD does not have a culture of dialogue and discuss the issues in order to arrive to healthy conclusion. In other words, CUD still uses the old culture style of intimidation and harassment and painting with big brush a person who questions their pointview . In nutchell, they missed that consensus is golden rule that will help to rule Ethiopia in the first place.
Lastly, I will suggest to CUD to put its house in order to be inclusive and people party and regroup from defeat that it created itself. That is to say, Meles has only use to beating with their baton rouge that they got from the red terror father Negede Gobeze.

Email: shirdons@yahoo.com

City: Washington DC

Dear all,
All that has happened since May 15 does ot surprise me, b/c I knew from an insider that the ground work was done well before May 15. Even the seats to be offered to the opposition were predetermined on the basis of the constituencies where there would be no international observers, as they know that woyanie can never win a sigle vote through free election.

I am sorry to say, but I have to say, that the only way to get rid of the brutal regime is ONE & ONLY ONE.

I knew that it was a waste of time!!!! But if the idea was for some to go and warm seats in parliament, it was a perfect opportunity.

My prayers are with the poor Ethiopians who will certainly WIN ONE DAY & this may not be far.

Thank you.

The opposition has opted for a peaceful path and given where they live and the absence of military force in their support, proceeding to court is their next move.

They or the other civic organizations like the Student, Teacher, Labor, Women's etc. associations and city residents especially in Addis should take upon their responsibility for the long struggel to bring down the illegitimate and brigand regime.

The idea is never to give this regime and Meles and Bereket the legitimacy for the mockery of democracy they continue to display. Never!!

The opposition should boycott parliament until the judicial system is exhausted and in the mean time Ethiopians every where should be united in not even giving a hint of support to this KILETAM, AYN YAWETA, ERKANUN YEKERE regime.

Minyaregal

I couldn’t understand the use of going into the investigation process in the first place - where EPRDF/NEBE is the defendant, judge and jury and even the plaintiff in some cases. Preparing to go to the court would have the same outcome if not worse. I am slowly doubting if the oppositions are living up to the trust and enormous support they have for the people.

As CUD and UEDF decided to take part in the election, they were out to get a little more than 12% or at most 1/3 of the parliamentary seats. That’s how far they were prepared to go. And since the slick dictator woyane/EPRDF was anxious to show a sunny side to the western world ,they knew they were relatively safe with this humble goal.

However, they suddenly got an enormous support and vote from the people. This staggering support was beyond CUD’s and UEDF’s wildest expectation. Of course, it was evident that woyane/EPRDF would do everything necessarily to foil the results.

The initial humble goal was boosted by the people and the opposition found itself as the “leaders” of an overwhelming majority. But I am afraid that the oppositions have difficulties to adjust to this much greater role and responsibility and stand behind the massive support. I suggest it is high time they rethink how far they are prepared to go to fulfill this big responsibility. Cause a greater goal needs a greater sacrifice.

The ones who are not ready for the sacrifice should at least openly say so and step down from their assumed leadership. It is every one’s choice to decide how far they want to go on this. But It is their basic responsibility to respect the people’s choice.

Brothers and Sisters, this is what we need to do.
We need to e-mail the Kestedemena office and let know our views. Dr Berhanu , though his intentions are good, is making a very serious problem.

1. He should not go to court. By going in the investigation they loose seats. They were 123 now they are 109. Besides it is giving legitimacy to the regime.

2. Dr Berhanu should stop critisizing Ato Lidetu. Ato lidetu is RIGHT ... He should have listened to. The guy seems to understand very well the will of the people. All opposition leaders combined wouldn't reach at the level of support Lidetu has. I am not exagerating he is a force to be reckoned with. Ignoring him is like ignirong the "PEOPLE", for at this time the people is agreeing and supporting Ato Lidetu's view.

3. Why don't they call a rally and let the people heard his voice ???? I tought the illegal ban on demonstation was no more ? Are the CUD leaders afraid of the PEOPLE ??????

Email: tazabi@yahoo.com

Guys do you have any alternative method than not going to court? Do you think civil disobediences will bring down woyane down? If your answer is yes then you are saying woyane is democrat.
for how long ever the disobedience goes it is the people who will be starved and stop first. the woyanes have money they can stand to as much as it takes.
sharw/addisababa

Email: sharew@freemail.et

City: addis ababa

I agree. Electoral process in every country is simple to understand since it involves the people at large. I don't know how we are trying to make it as complicated as it is now. The result shows that EPRDF won. It is simple. Investigation was requested and the process involves all the parties and the international observers. The outcome of the investigation favors the EPRDF and hence NEBE announced the ERPRD has got the majority of the vote so it can form the government. The simplicity is much clear here again. CUD/UEDF needs to go to the report the parliament and CUD administers the city of Addis. I dont think there is other choice on the table but disobedience or rule of law. Let’s choice here as the

BBC Reports today
Food crisis 'runs across Africa'
"The largest number of people at risk in a single state, for example, is in Ethiopia, where some 10m people are said to be facing food shortages."
Lets Welcome another five years of starvation, poverty and begging. It is so sad that the West are supporting this Incompetent,Useless and Hopless government.

CUD: be strong and keep fighting! You only need to depend on the people. The people of Ethiopia are behind you. Complaining about the votes got you even fewer seats through robbery and cheating. How amazing? We all know what the cheating group, NEBE, is doing. We need to replace NEBE and Kamel Bedri with a neutral body. Kamel Bedri should not be the chef justice and chairman of NEBE because of his grave lack of honesty. If his judgment is this biased in front of the nation one can only imagine what he will do when he is not watched.
Free people should never be afraid of their government and legitimate governments should never threaten or fear their own citizens. This government knows people are aware of its deceits and lies and that is why it is resorting to calling in the army to commit violence and killings. If it does not respect the voice of the people it should not be respected. Mengistu’s loss to Woyane came from lack of support from his people and not because of the Woyane’s rebel groups’ strength. More than ever this government is losing support.
An honest military force does not have to obey orders if it is to kill their own citizens contesting election fraud. This shows how loyal they are to their country and people.

Email: amelaman@sbcglobal.net

They may declare victory for themselves, but the Ethiopianr people have not given them their blessings, therefore, this euphoria will be short lived as the struggle that has began will never die out until EPRDF is ejected out of our country. MARK MY WORD !
Every one of you EPRDF spys and cadres including you MELES, BEREKET, an d your " gebre aber " hulu, know this is a matter of time, we will eat you alive when the time comes.

I don’t understand what kind of court the opposition party is talking about. You can call me naïve, but if every govt. department in Ethiopia is corrupted including the justice system, how in the world the opposition parties expect to get a fair judgment? It is apparent to Ethiopians and to the rest of the world that Meles and his gangs have stolen the votes. No one would have cast their votes in their right mind for these monsters. We should have stayed in the streets for days like the people of Ukraine, demanding reelections. Meles has shown his clear picture of hate by Killing its citizens. I am very much concerned for Ethiopian people and the future of Ethiopia if Meles’s group stayed in power for five more years. People are still dying. Recently, I heard that around the place where I was born, the local people found three dead bodies thrown at the back of the church and the dead people were not from around that same area. The local people said they never heard or seen anything like that before. Instead of giving Meles a reward to stay in power for five more years, he needs to pay for his crimes.

Ha Hu,
I completely agree with you. Ethiopians should protest day and night like the Ukrainians until their demand is fulfilled. They should never lose this chance. Clearly CUD and the people are the winners of the election not Meles and his groups. Meles does not intened to step down. He wants to cling to power for as long as he lives and that is a very dangerous sign. Since he knows Ethiopians have rejected him he will clamp down on dissenters, attempt to rewrite the constitution to make him stronger to the determent of the country’s welfare.

Here is the report posted, Wed. August 10, 2005 on BBC regarding Meles Zenawi’s leadership.
“Meles Zenawi can reflect on the fact that he's now been in power as long as the man he helped to overthrow - Colonel Mengistu Haile Mariam”. BBC added:
“The Ethiopian government may point to the fact that there was no freedom of expression whatsoever during Mengistu's rule, but a heavy-handed reaction from Mr Meles' security forces to public demonstrations in Addis Ababa is certain to be viewed as another blow to Africa's so-called "renaissance."

Email: amelaman@sbcglobal.net

Kemal Bedri declared Meles and Co. winners of the election! What an earth shattering news! "Abatu Dagna, Liju Kemagana".

A complaint by the opposition against the results of an election headed by the NEBE was investigated by the NEBE. After a "thorough" investigation of the complaints, the NEBE declared Meles and Co, who appointed the NEBE officials, winners. Meles and Co. and the chairman of the NEBE, Mr Kemal Bedri, strongly urged the opposition to do nothing but appeal to the "independent" court, which is headed by Mr. Kemal Bedri who is also the head of the "independent" NEBE. The "independent" court headed by Mr. Kemal Bedri is expected to uphold the decisions of the "independent" NEBE which Mr Bedri leads.

What a sad mockery of democracy and people's rights this is!

Shame on Meles and Co. and shame to their foot soldiers who add insult to our injuries by telling us to shut up!

Those of us who genuinely feel robbed, insulted and humilated by the shameless acts of Meles and Co., we should wise up. Let us not waste our energy and resources fighting against each other on procedural or tactical matters. Let us keep our eyes on the prize. Let us not forget that the big prize we all yearn for is the estalishment a governance system that respects the will of the Ethiopian people.

We can agree or disagree with what the opposition parties do/say, but we have no right to make decisions for them. Please let us refrain from making divisive statements. We need to stay together in our struggle against the tyranny of the dictatorship of Meles and Co.

"Even when successful, guerrilla struggles often have significant long-term negative structural consequences. Immediately, the attacked regime becomes more dictatorial as a result of its countermeasures. If the guerrillas should finally succeed, the resulting new regime is often more dictatorial than its predecessor due to the centralizing impact of the expanded military forces and the weakening or destruction of the society's independent groups and institutions during the struggle-bodies which are vital in establishing and maintaining a democratic society. Opponents of dictatorships should look for another option. "

City: CA

This is for Ibrahim Shripon-

I senses that your are OLF or UEDF supporter. I wounder, where are you getting your facts? Why on earth do you think a Political party that believes in national integrity sit down and have dialog with someone who despise being Ethiopian. Call them “Liberation Front” Liberation from what? Ignorance.

You people TPLF, OLF and ONLF, you have to drop your last liberation suffix, and fight for one democratic Ethiopian. Don’t throw this Oromo bull****, because some of us are aware of this ethnic pretext for power.

I am sure by now you have realized this divide and rule ethnic politics, and have not work for majority Ethiopians. I am afraid next time you might ask CUD/UEDF/EFRDF to sit down define, what it means to be an Ethiopians to “ Saudi Wahhamism”.

From Diaspora- No political part affiliation.

May be you should drive down from Maryland and discuss this matter with me one day.

Ibrahim wants the opposition party disappeared. He wants to see anarchy in Ethiopia like Somalia. I think chaos fascinates him. Ibrahim’s hate to wards the Amharas is obvious. He has been using a word “settlers” as a derogatory remark. I am married to an Amhara and have children. And people like Ibrahim irritates the hell out of me.

Ibrahim has a right to express his views as long as he is respectful. He also speaks for the silent majority of zone 5 (Somali State in Ethiopia ) ooops! this is an offence for some . Those who might babble that Somalise in Ethiopia had migrated from somalia for camel grass, and oromos migrated from some where else for what ever. But who cares what you think any more, You will either shutup or ship out.

Any one with different point of view than your blind ethiocentrism is traitor, cadre, woyanne, hateful, not Ethiopian. But it seems we have two Ethiopia, a fake one in your imagination that speakes one forced language(Amahric), longs for oppressing other nationalites, strives for one dominant identity

And the real Ethiopia where people speak more than 83 languages, where ethiocentrism is bygone, where basic needs are at stake, in short where there is a humanity.

Don't get me wrong there are very decent Amharic speaking and true nationalist Ethiopians who deserve our respect, but in the same token there are a large number who have hard time, in even, acknowledging the existance of other nationalities and their shared ownership of the land. For the second ones we say you are sorry!..... you are very sorry!!!

Hey folks,
I am just as puzzled as you are.

I am improvising here:
Is it obvious to you why the leaders in the opposition didn't compare notes before they make such a huge proposal and or make it public?

Does that in any way indicate a power struggle within say, CUD? I hope not! That is the last thing Ethiopians need at this point in time.

On the other hand the proposal is NOT a willy-nilly document but it is a well thought out solution to undo the impasse. Namely: To avoid conforntation, to avert blood shed, to ensure democratic process, and to create a transitional government until a re-election is carried out. That said, the proponents of the proposal of course borderline naivete for assuming the PM would agree to such a workable solution to a potentially terrible impasse?

To his discredit, Ato Lidetu could have been a little more accommodating to offer deniability later on the part of Dr Birhanu and Dr Beyene.

Does anyone understand my frustration?

Ajirea

MIDROC Ethiopia is the first to congratulate EPRDF on its success.

It took a full page in the Ethiopia Herald to pass its message of congraulations.

Sarcasim on the Ethiopian people.

Email: tarike@yahoo.com

City: Addis Ababa

Nomad,
You need to cool down. If you are also respectful of others’ opinion there is no need to add extra comments. When one criticizes of the political affiliation of someone else one should not jump on the issue of ethnicity. It seems that the Amhara have became the scapegoat for all the ills of Ethiopia. Whenever an Amhara says some thing about Ethiopia he is accused of ethnocentrism, suppression of others etc. etc. Amharas are a decent people who have fought and died for their country with better-armed and larger enemies not only for themselves but also for the whole of Ethiopia. Amharas do not see themselves separated from other Ethiopians. TPLF/EPRDF wanted to see Ethiopia ethnically divided, misinformed and deceived others to advance and empower just themselves. After more than 14 years of failed conspiracy people found this not to be true. Ethiopians united and formed the group called Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD).
Speaking of language, how many languages will we have to speak as Ethiopians to communicate with each other? How is one country to develop when everybody speaks a different language? Were you forced to speak English?
Now let’s be civilized and try to have a better and wealthier Ethiopia where every one has an equal chance of advancement. This is big reason for us to fight and replace TPLF/EPRDF with CUD. They are a united and a uniting party that will be great for all Ethiopians all over Ethiopia.

Email: amelaman@sbcglobal.net

We all witnessed the last 14 years. And we have been closely following the election process unfolding. By now we are pretty clear about EPRDF and the opposition. We know what the donor countries could do, irrespective of the fact that they are well aware of the situation. We know what the court's decision is going to be if the opposition is going to challenge the results there. Unless we are in denial we all know pretty well what accepting the results or protesting it peacefully would result. We all know what should be the next step for the opposition then. This is the time where the struggle will take a sharp turn and become tense, for sure. But, whether we like it or not, there is only one genuine option left for us - the people and the opposition- to firmly but peacefully resist the election result. The key word is peaceful resistance. We should be able to learn a lot from the way Martin Luther King and Mahatama Gandhi conducted this. This is not totally against the constitution, totally. But for this to be effective the opposition should be able to come forward in time and organize the resistance before the people's temper boil up and another round of fresh confrontations start, which would again result in unnecessary sacrifices, which we all don't like to happen, and which will inturn may put the opposition in defence.

Email: mmgelaw@yahoo.com

Dear Nomad,
Do you really believe in your heart of hearts that EPRDF won the election fair and square?If so,you must have just woken up from a deep sleep that lasted months or you are one of them,which I doubt looking at your other views.
There were a lot of judgement calls by NEBE that made me and the international observers suspicious about the biasedness of the election.
Don't you think the individuals in the opposition camp are honourable people compared to TPLF members whose sole mission was to break up Ethiopia and suck it dry as they are doing now.
As for taking their seats in parliament,I agree with you.

Email: zghiwet@yahoo.ca

City: Toronto

Nomad.
Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) is an inclusive party of all Ethiopians. It may be seen as targeting the urban areas, but the fact is that they do not have enough media outlets to reach the rural areas. Don’t forget that the government controls and dominates almost all media in the rural areas. But look how, in just a few months, this party has attracted many people from all walks of life. This shows how attractive this party is to all Ethiopians. As an Ethiopian there is no need to wait for an invitation to join CUD. Everybody who is concerned about the unity of Ethiopia and the welfare of its citizens is welcomed.
Every nation in the world has one common or national language. This also applies to Ethiopia and it happens to be Amahric. This is for everybody’s benefit. Amharic is a strong language because it has its own alphabet and majority of the people know how to use it. If we all speak different languages how are we going to operate and communicate with each other as a nation? As far as I know nobody is forced to speak any language. If one goes to school to learn Amharic it means that he/she is not forced. I know so many Somalis or other non-Amhara who speak Amharic and are not making it an issue. If one can survive by just using his/her own ethnic language other than the national language more power to them but I assure you that is very unlikely. We need to look at our similarities than differences.

Email: amelaman@sbcglobal.net

Justice has surfaced in ethiopia. It is sad that EPRDF won but I am happy that this election thing is concluded. Now it is time to join hands together and work hard to get back to the point where we stopped before election. Let us leave this election behind us and focus to the development of our country. In my opinion the opposition groups have succeded even if they couldnt form goverment. Their great performance in the election has shoked EPRDF. Watch carfully since the rulling party is now in check it will work harder to convince the ethiopian people that their vote deserve prospority. Some people are trying to compare CUD with EPRP that they are only focused in cities. The fact remains that some people also doubt CUD's clean sweep in Addis is a good example. But, I say i am happy this thing is over and congragulation ethiopian people, like any other western countries we have Democracy and Multi parties---------- I can not wait till september for the new formed goverment to take charge.

Email: anti_woyane@hotmail.com

City: water melon

Regarding the election/bullection, i say get over it. for one, it will only serve to divide us to think about it, and for another it has no real meaning anyway. for those who really believe in helping each other as humans first, and ethiopians next, then we will concentrate on what we can do to help our less fortunate brothers and sisters. it is easy to criticize and blame and hate, but nothing good will come out of that even if criticizing bad people or groups. if one tenth of us concentrate on helping our people, then ethiopia will not be a land of starvation, melancholy and poverty. for those in the us, get educated, accumulate resources, be wise and do your best to help raise the living standards of ethiopia, to protect our environment and develop strong healthy relationships with our neighbors. in fact i'll make it easier, save the money that you spend on one week of Starbucks, or one meal at PF changs, or one night of drinking in a club, and purchase a text book to donate to any school in Ethiopia. If you can do just that, you have become a positive, constructive person. God bless.

Email: gedeclue@yahoo.com

City: los angeles