Falls Church, VA (05/30/2023) – On May 23rd, the Oromia Islamic Affairs Supreme Council issued a statement confirming the demolition of 19 mosques within the newly established Sheger City. The council accuses the Government of disregarding their appeals, which were sent to the various offices, including the Prime Minister and the Oromia Regional State. On May 26th, peaceful demonstrations opposing mosque demolition in Sheger City occurred in several locations, including Finfine/Addis Ababa, Shashemene, and Wolkite. Reports indicate that government authorities used force, resulting in the tragic loss of two civilian lives, severe injuries to four others and the detainment of over 100 individuals during the protest held at the “Grand Anwar Mosque.”
Furthermore, our concerns extend to the escalating tension and conflicts between Oromia regional security forces and Oromo Liberation Army (OLA). Following the conclusion of the initial round of peace talks on May 3rd, OLLAA has received a reliable report of casualties, tragically resulting in the death of civilians. Moreover, we are also aware of numerous casualties inflicted upon government officials by OLA forces.
OLLAA vehemently condemns all forms of violence, particularly those perpetrated against civilians. We urge the Ethiopian Government to exercise restraint from employing lethal weaponry and promptly releasing unlawfully detained protesters associated with the Anwar Mosque protests. We urgently appeal to the international community to conduct thorough investigations into these and all other assaults against civilians. OLLAA also implores the Ethiopian Government to seize the opportunity for confidence building, renew commitment to engage in peaceful dialogues and promptly schedule a second round of peace talks.
OLLAA is an umbrella organization that works in collaboration with dozens of Oromo communities around the world.