April 21, 2026
Among our country’s artists, my foremost hero in confronting authoritarian rule during the era of EPRDF, and my fourth in the era of Abiy, is the artist Tewodros Kassahun. Following the release of the influential Teddy Afro’s album, I have observed the following eight key points regarding the intense public sentiment that has emerged in recent days. My observations do not concern Teddy Afro himself, who has fulfilled his share of responsibility, but rather the public reaction triggered by the album’s release.
First, the Ethiopian people today are gripped far more than we tend to assume; by deep frustration, resentment, anxiety, a spirit of protest, and a strong yearning for change.
Second, compared to politicians and social activists who struggle persistently to bring about tangible change, art possesses a far greater capacity and role in stirring public emotion.
Third, contrary to claims by some contemporary ethno-nationalists that it has “collapsed” or “been defeated,” Ethiopian nationalism remains alive within the public as a “smoldering ember.”
Fourth, a political culture marked by populism, emotionalism, extremism, nationalism, and a lack of principled grounding has continued to intensify within our society to an alarming degree.
Fifth, the majority of our political community shows greater affection and admiration for artists who express their emotions through song and poetry than for heroes who have struggled, been imprisoned, and even sacrificed their irreplaceable lives whether through peaceful or armed struggle for the same cause.
Sixth, lasting peace and love, equality and unity, have not yet moved beyond empty words and hollow hopes into goals whose paths to realization we clearly understand.
Seventh, we have yet to fully grasp that victory and lasting change are achieved not through emotion and desire, but only through organized struggle and sacrifice.
Eighth, more than the melodies and poetry of Teddy Afro, it is Ethiopia’s political community itself that has become a poem whose meaning has been lost.
What politicians and social activists failed to ignite in the public over eight years of struggle, Teddy Afro has stirred within eight minutes through his song and lyrics “Das Tal.” Witnessing this, I find myself with a kind of spiritual envy, wishing I had been a poet rather than a politician.
As Teddy Afro says, “Listen to me, myself,” I leave the detailed interpretation of these eight observations to you, who are lovers of poetry, so that you may reflect upon and discuss them.
Now, it is 5:00 p.m. by Ethiopian time.
Editor’s Note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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