Ethiopia imposes state of emergency over possible militia uprising

Ethiopia’s central government declared a state of emergency following weeks of escalating tensions and conflicts with Fano, a militia previously allied with the federal army, in the Amhara region (northwest).

The government cited the illegal activities of these armed groups as a threat to law and order in the region and an obstacle to ensuring the rule of law.

The Ethiopian cabinet found it necessary to declare an emergency to control this alarming activity.

The government’s concern about the increasing danger to citizens’ safety and national security was expressed in a statement without specifically naming Fano.

The action came a day after the president of the Amhara region asked for more help from Addis Ababa to address the growing “insecurity” there.

The unsuccessful peace negotiations between the Ethiopian government and the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), coupled with the ongoing conflict involving the Fano militia, collectively illustrate the elusive nature of peace within Ethiopia.

Violence has erupted in the provinces of East Gojam and North Wollo, where residents reported Fano had taken control of the airport in Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, though a spokesperson for the Ethiopian Defense Forces denied this claim.

Tensions between Amhara and the federal government have been rising since last April when the central administration decided to dissolve the Fano group, supported by the regional authorities, and other military forces to integrate them into the federal army or police.

The human rights NGO Center for the Advancement of Rights and Democracy (CARD) also reported internet blockages in parts of the Amhara region, hindering communications and confirming Fano’s possible advances.

BACKGROUND

The Fano militia is a complex and multifaceted group that plays a significant role in the local politics and security of the Amhara region in Ethiopia.

Fano’s alignment with the Amhara region’s interests has led to conflicts with the Ethiopian federal government, particularly after the decision to dissolve and integrate regional forces like Fano into the national army or police.

Escalating tensions between Fano and federal forces have resulted in violent confrontations in the Amhara region, contributing to instability and the declaration of a state of emergency.

There have been reports of Fano taking control of strategic locations, such as airports, a move that has caused alarm and disputes with Ethiopian officials.

Concerns over potential human rights abuses by the Fano militia add to the complexity of the situation, raising questions about the rule of law and accountability within the region.

The actions of the Fano militia reflect broader issues of regional autonomy versus central control in Ethiopian politics, fueling further polarization and challenges to national cohesion and governance.

This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error