In the past, the Ethiopian Government used to give honorary titles for the aristocracy, noblemen, officials, clergy men and madams.
The appointive name or the position given was serving not only in the life time of the appointed but also after death The title names can be classified in five major categories.
Title for the:-
- Aristocracy
- Army
- Civil
- Patriots
- Clergy
The present issue which is the second on this subject is related to some of the then honorary titles that had been given to the military group.
These are:
- Balambaras :- Honoric title
- Kegnazmatch : – Commander of the right (title of distinction)
- Fitawurari – General of the Vanguard
- Dedjazmatch :- Honorary title
- Balambaras :- 5 c. – This title is lower than Kegnazmatch and higher than a captain and appointed in different regions of the country with ceremonial robes of single golden stripped cloak and gown.
- Kegnazmatch :- 15 c. – This title is more or less higher than a captain. The one a Kegnazmatch could have some individuals under him. The ceremonial robes associated to this title silver were mantle of cloth or lion skin w strip; double stripped cloak an golden stripped gown.
- Dedjazmatch :- 80 c. – Honorary title some selected individuals in Sidamo, Bale and the like regions. The ceremonial robes assigned to this were cloak and gown decorated in gold and silver.
- Fitawurari :- 1 Birr – The minister of the army was appointed Fitawurari. Next to the king, he could exercise power by commanding the army in war time and was responsible administer the military group in peace me He could also command the officials under him. The robes he used to wear were mantle of cloth or lion skin decorated in gold and silver, double golden stripped gown; the base embroidered in silk.