Source: Eritrean Opposition Groups
We are excited to share our reflections on the recent fundraising and tax collection event organized by the Eritrean Charge de Affair from Washington DC, which took place on April 12-13, 2025. This gathering, aimed at rallying support for the impending war with Ethiopia, was quite different from the conferences held in previous years. Instead of the usual thousands of enthusiastic supporters and cheerleaders, this event saw a turnout of only seventy-five quiet and disheartened participants from California, Arizona, and Nevada.
Despite the low attendance, those present engaged in serious and pointed discussions. The representative was overwhelmed with pressing questions, particularly regarding the repeated controversial alliances with regional forces that the Eritrean government has asked its supporters to champion. At one point, attendees poignantly inquired, “How many flags of support do you want us to wave? The Ethiopian flag, and now the Tigrayan?” The sentiment was clear: the silent majority is growing weary of being asked to support causes they do not fully understand or agree with. The mood at the event was somber, with all participants wearing yellow T-shirts and flags symbolizing their current stance.
Leading up to the meeting, efforts were made to discourage the representative’s visit, with messages sent last week by Eritreans for Peace and Justice in San Diego urging everyone to carefully consider their involvement and the potential risks to their status in the United States. This was especially pertinent for asylum seekers who might be tempted to return to Eritrea by signing the infamous “Regret Form,” which implies that they regret their decision to come to the USA and that criticizing the Eritrean government was a mistake.
The gathering served as a powerful reminder that the Eritrean people, particularly those living abroad, are deeply concerned about the long-standing authoritarian regime that has ruled the country for the past 33 years without their consent. The silent majority began to voice their dissatisfaction and demand change, even if their numbers were smaller than in previous years. It is a testament to their resilience and determination to seek justice and peace for Eritrea. With the dwindling numbers of government supporters and the younger generation shifting to the opposition side, we envision the time for change is near.
Our message signified the need for both sides to communicate the greater goal of liberating our people. The regime is weakened from within, and people inside will rise up if the supporters in the diaspora no longer happily attend government-organized meetings or totally refuse to attend. Eritreans need no regret form applications, entry visas, bribes, surveillances, 2% taxation, fear ofnot returning home safely or any other constraints and inconveniences if the ruling regime-Isayas and his 10 henchmen are removed, and replaced by a constitutionally mandated, democratically elected government of the people by the people for the people. This is not an easy task, but it is a necessary one. We must remain vigilant and united in our quest for a free and democratic Eritrea.
Eritreans for Peace & Justice in Eritrea
April 14, 2025
