Request for the Proper and Meaningful Organization of Fichee-Chamballala

To the Honorable Sidama Regional State Government,

I am writing as a concerned and committed individual to respectfully, yet firmly, request the official organization of Fichee-Chamballala in the current year in a manner that fully reflects its cultural, social, and moral significance—and not merely as a symbolic or politically driven event.

Fichee-Chamballala, the Sidama New Year celebration, is officially recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition affirms that Fichee-Chamballala is not an occasion for political visibility or short-term consumption, but a living philosophy grounded in peace, renewal, social cohesion, reconciliation, and collective responsibility.

Historically, Fichee-Chamballala has served as a deeply rooted social institution through which the Sidama people renew moral commitments, strengthen unity, resolve tensions, and reaffirm shared values across generations. Its meaning lies in substance, participation, and respect for tradition—not in formality, spectacle, or political messaging.

Organizing Fichee-Chamballala merely to fulfill an administrative requirement or to serve political narratives risks emptying the celebration of its true purpose and undermining its credibility as a UNESCO-recognized heritage. Such an approach would fail both the Sidama people and the responsibility entrusted to us by the international community to safeguard this heritage with integrity.

I therefore respectfully urge the Sidama Regional State to ensure that this year’s Fichee-Chamballala:

• Is organized with authenticity, dignity, and cultural integrity

• Centers its core values of peace, renewal, and social cohesion

• Encourages genuine community participation rather than political display

• Reflects its role as a moral and social institution, not a political instrument

Upholding Fichee-Chamballala in its true spirit is a moral, cultural, and historical responsibility. Doing so strengthens trust, unity, and social harmony, and ensures that this sacred tradition continues to serve its purpose for future generations.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,

Nomonanoto Critica