Nagawo Gudisa, a 60-year-old man, lived in the Liban Jawi district, West Shawa, a rural area of Oromia, Ethiopia. He was a farmer who played a vital role in his community, participating in activities such as the construction of schools and the development of infrastructure through community participation and organization. Furthermore, he was known in the community for reconciling conflicts and helping the needy.
However, five years ago, his young children joined the Oromo Liberation Army (OLF). As a result, on May 20, 2022, the Oromia Special Forces (OSF) burned down his house along with his entire property.
Mr. Nagawo’s house burned on May 20, 2022 by government security forces.
Fortunately, with the help of village people, Mr. Nagawo and his family were able to rebuild their homes and resume their lives in peace.
However, on August 7, 2023, the Ethiopian security forces and the Liban Jawi District Administration once again carried out a targeted operation at Mr. Nagawo’s residence. They severely beat him in his own home. A total of 46 individuals and families from the village, including relatives, friends, and neighbors of Mr. Nagawo, were apprehended and detained. They were taken from their village to Babicha town and subjected to a series of beatings. Following this, Mr. Nagawo was separated from the others and was severely beaten, which ultimately led to his death. After they had killed him, they refused to give his body to his family, and instead buried him in the location of their choice. As for the remaining victims, several of them remain suffering in detention.
International Law
International human rights law contains the obligation for States to protect individuals from human rights violations, including violations of the right to life, which is guaranteed under numerous human rights treaties that Ethiopia is a party to, including the UDHR, ICCPR, CRC, and ACHPR. Extrajudicial executions involve the deliberate killing of individuals by state agents outside of any legal framework and constitute a violation of this right.
The Ethiopian security forces therefore must face the consequences for their detrimental actions, which led to the loss of innocent lives and to the denial of justice. They must rightfully take responsibility for the death of Mr. Nagawo as it is a grave matter that demands immediate attention. The government must prioritize the human rights of its citizens, ensuring that there is mutual respect between all parties present.