By Abdijaliil Osman
The struggle for self-determination in the Somali region of Ethiopia, historically known as the Ogaden, is not just a political aspiration—it is a deeply rooted movement soaked in sacrifice, identity, and resistance against marginalisation. The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF), born out of this historic context, has long stood as a symbol of Somali resilience in the face of a brutal state apparatus.
Yet, recent developments threaten to undermine this legacy.
On 9 May 2025, Ethiopia’s National Electoral Board (NEBE) officially recognised a controversial gathering in Jigjiga as a legitimate ONLF congress—one that claimed to have removed long-serving chairman Abdirahman Sheikh Mahdi and appointed Abdikariin Sheikh Muse, known widely as Qalbi-Dhagax, in his place. This announcement, however, is being perceived by many within the Somali region as a political fabrication orchestrated by external actors—particularly the regional administration led by Mustafa Cagjar.
The decision has sparked outrage among ONLF loyalists and Somali nationalists alike. They argue that the so-called conference was not convened by the party’s legitimate structures, but by individuals with vested interests—some of whom are currently serving in the Somali Regional Government or are former members who have long abandoned the movement. The fact that NEBE, a federal institution, chose to validate such an assembly raises serious questions about Ethiopia’s continued interference in Somali political agency.
Qalbi-Dhagax, once hailed as a symbol of resistance after his infamous rendition from Somalia to Ethiopia in 2017, now finds himself accused of becoming an instrument of state manipulation. Critics argue that his participation in this sham leadership transfer betrays the very struggle he once represented. More damningly, his ascent is likened to that of Rayale Hamud, another figure previously declared ONLF chairman through similar state-backed theatrics—who later admitted his role was nothing more than “a staged performance.”
This is not merely a case of internal party politics. The manipulation of the ONLF’s leadership is a direct assault on Somali national identity in Ethiopia. It seeks to delegitimise the sacrifices of thousands who died, were displaced, or imprisoned in pursuit of justice and autonomy. It also aims to weaken any form of independent Somali political voice by replacing it with government-aligned proxies.
Mustafa Cagjar, who initially rose to power amid promises of reform, now appears complicit in a broader scheme to neutralise Somali nationalist aspirations. His administration’s role in facilitating and legitimising this leadership change, while actively sidelining ONLF veterans, suggests a strategy of political co-optation, not reconciliation.
The Somali people of the region and in the diaspora must remain vigilant. The ONLF is not merely a political organisation; it is a historical embodiment of the Somali spirit in the face of marginalisation. Its leadership cannot be bought or reshuffled by decrees from Addis Ababa or deals made behind closed doors.
The international community should also be wary. Allowing a federal electoral body to interfere in the leadership of a historically oppressed minority movement sets a dangerous precedent—one that further alienates communities seeking genuine democratic participation within the Ethiopian federation.
History will indeed record these events. But it will not be kind to those who seek to erase a legacy born out of blood and belief. Neither Qalbi-Dhagax nor Mustafa Cagjar will be remembered as unifiers or reformers if they persist in undermining the ONLF’s foundations.
They will be remembered as men who tried—and failed—to sell a struggle that was never theirs to own.
Abdijaliil Osman
Independent Journalist
Email: abdijalilosman@gmail.com
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