People walk along a street in the town of Metema in northwestern Ethiopia on August 1, 2023 across from Sudan's eastern town of Gallabat. (Photo by AFP)
Ethiopia's Council of Ministers has taken the decisive step of declaring a state of emergency within the Amhara region, as the simmering clashes between regional forces and the military escalate to an alarming extent.
In response to the intensifying violence, the prime minister's office, on Friday, officially communicated this decision. Acknowledging the region leader's appeal for assistance due to the inadequacy of regular law enforcement to quell the turmoil, this declaration's implementation hinges upon the subsequent approval from the Parliament.
The statement released underlines the mounting peril posed by these activities to national security and public harmony, a menace that grows more pronounced with each passing day. The declaration not only underscores the consequential economic ramifications but also attributes these disturbances to "armed extremist groups."
Ethiopia, a country of more than 110 million people, is facing multiple crises and challenges that threaten its stability and security. One of the most affected regions is Amhara, located in the north-central part of the country. Amhara is home to the Amhara people, the second-largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, who speak Amharic as their native language. Amhara has a rich cultural and historical heritage, as it was the center of several ancient kingdoms and empires, such as the Aksumite, Zagwe, and Solomonic dynasties. Amhara is also known for its religious sites, such as the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the monasteries of Lake Tana.
However, Amhara has also been facing various challenges and conflicts in recent years, both internally and externally. Some of these include:
- The war in Tigray: In November 2020, a war broke out between the federal government of Ethiopia and a rebel group that had ruled Tigray region for almost three decades. The war spilled over into Amhara, as the rebels attacked and occupied parts of western and southern Amhara, claiming that they were historically part of Tigray. The Amhara regional government mobilized its special forces and militia, known as Fano, to fight alongside the federal army against the rebels. The war resulted in thousands of deaths, millions of displacements, widespread human rights violations, and a humanitarian crisis in both regions.
- The integration of special forces: In April 2023, the federal government announced that it would integrate all regional special forces either into the national army or the police force, as part of its efforts to promote national unity and security. The decision faced strong opposition in Amhara, where many people saw it as a threat to their regional autonomy and security. The Fano militia refused to disarm and clashed with the federal army in several areas of Amhara. The government declared a state of emergency in Amhara and arrested several journalists, activists, and politicians who were accused of supporting or inciting the Fano.
- The ethnic violence: Amhara has also experienced ethnic violence from other neighboring regions, such as Oromia and Benishangul-Gumuz. In June 2022, more than 200 ethnic Amhara were killed in an attack by suspected Oromo rebels in Ataye town, which lies on the border between Amhara and Oromia regions. In December 2020, more than 100 ethnic Amhara were killed in an attack by armed men from Benishangul-Gumuz region in Metekel zone, which borders Amhara region. These attacks have sparked fear and anger among the Amhara people, who have demanded more protection from the federal government.
These are some of the major issues that have affected Amhara region in recent times. The situation remains tense and volatile, as different actors pursue their own interests and agendas. The federal government faces a daunting task of restoring peace and stability in the region, while addressing the underlying causes of the conflicts. The international community has also expressed its concern and called for dialogue and humanitarian assistance. The fate of Amhara and Ethiopia depends on how these challenges are resolved.
