The following is a translation of a statement released by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission
Regarding the implications and effects of the “law enforcement campaign” in some areas of the Amhara region on human rights
May 4, 2023
It is necessary for all concerned parties to resolve the problem through dialogue, to refrain from actions and speeches that aggravate the conflict, and to ensure accountability by conducting the necessary investigation into the damage caused.
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is closely monitoring the implications and effects of the “law enforcement campaign” on human rights in certain areas of the Amhara region. that there is conflict in some areas of North Gondar, North Wollo and North Showa zones; Especially in Shewa Robit, Armenia, Antioquia, Gemza and Majete, there was an exchange of fire between the defense forces and the local militants, and the existence of attacks supported by heavy weapons; As a result, it has been confirmed that there have been deaths, physical and property damage to civilians, and that the road from Dessie to Addis Ababa has been closed at various times.
In addition, EHRC has learned that some members of opposition political parties in the region, some youths who allegedly led/coordinated demonstrations against the decision to restructure the regional special forces, and some people suspected of having links with the Fano group have been arrested.
EHRC has repeatedly stated that the war in northern Ethiopia in the last two years has caused large-scale human rights violations and damage to civilians. Recognizing that further conflicts in any part of the country will result in grave/serious violations of human rights, all concerned parties should resolve the problem through peaceful means and dialogue, refrain from actions and speeches that aggravate the conflict, make necessary investigations and ensure accountability for all the damage caused, and arrests in any case should be based on the law, especially ” EHRC calls on the government to ensure that they respect the principles of human rights, which are “strict importance, proportionality and non-discrimination”.
