Early Life and Education

Colonel Maammoo Mazaamir was born in 1929 in Gudar, Shawa, West Shawa, to his father, Obbo Mazaamir Habtee Doorii, and his mother, Aadde Ummee Gurmeessaa. His pursuit of education began at the Dajjaazmaach Bashaa Elementary School in Gudar. He then attended Tafari Makonnen School for his secondary education, where his academic excellence earned him a placement at the Harar Teacher Training College.

However, his aspirations extended beyond teaching. Driven by a dual interest in academia and military service, he enrolled in the Harar Military Academy. He graduated with high distinction and was subsequently appointed as an instructor at the same academy.

Intellectual and Political Awakening

While pursuing a law degree (LLB) at Finfinnee University, which he earned in 1962, Maammoo Mazaamir began engaging with prominent Oromo intellectuals. It was during this time that he became involved with the Maccaa and Tuulama Association, an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights of the Oromo people.

He emerged as a leading figure in mobilizing university students to join the association. His efforts were successful, and he became a key member, participating in the historic and impactful struggle for Oromo rights—a legacy remembered with great respect and admiration by surviving members of the association to this day.

Activism and Unjust Accusation

Colonel Maammoo Mazaamir was a well-read intellectual, deeply versed in history and politics, who became a powerful voice for the oppressed Oromo people at various forums.

However, his activism made him a target of the imperial regime of Haile Selassie, which was hostile to the cause of Oromo rights and identity. In a blatantly fabricated case, the government accused him of throwing a bomb at a cinema in the Ampiir area in 1967, alleging it caused numerous casualties. Based on these false charges, he was sentenced to death on May 28, 1969.

Final Statement and Martyrdom

Facing execution by a regime that had orchestrated a judicial murder, Colonel Maammoo Mazaamir delivered a powerful final statement. He declared:

“My blood has been shed for the rights of the Oromo people, not wasted on the ground. Today, in an attempt to destroy Oromo identity, you have condemned one branch. But the Oromo people are a tree with nine branches, and they will endure. Do not doubt that the Oromo people will secure their rights, whether our blood is shed today or tomorrow! I ask only that you tell my Oromo brothers and sisters who come after me to pass a similar judgment upon you!”

Colonel Maammoo Mazaamir was executed in 1969 at the “Alem Beqqany” prison (Gaashiree). He was a father of two children, martyred for his unwavering commitment to the cause of the Oromo people.