The Oromia Regional State denies reports that authorities instructed farmers in several zones to purchase firearms and arm themselves amid rising regional security concerns
Borkena Desk
TORONTO, Canada — The massacre in the Oromia region of Ethiopia seems to be unending. It was only a few weeks ago that elite forces organized with the name “Gada Commando” massacred ethnic Amhara communities in rural parts of East Wollega.
Yet, a new report by Wazema radio this week reveals that the regional government has called on farmers in South West Shoa, West Shao, North Shoa and Qelem Wollega to arm themselves. It cited residents as sources.
A translation of the news update from Wazema reads :
“Wazema Radio has learned that Oromia Regional State authorities have instructed farmers in zones facing security challenges, including Southwest Shewa, West Shewa, North Shewa, and Qellem Wollega, to purchase firearms, arm themselves, and organize to protect their local areas, provided their age and health allow them to do so. Residents told Wazema that officials in these zones informed farmers that the regional government would promptly issue firearm licenses to farmers who purchase and arm themselves and supply ammunition at an affordable price. Sources added that farmers who lack the financial means to purchase firearms have been placed in a difficult situation.”
Ethiopian Media outlets extensively covered the story as the information was interpreted as, including by human rights organizations, “dangerous” that could lead to widespread massacre of farmers from non-Oromo ethnic groups.
The information was projected in the context that the Oromia region is gravely worried about the Tsemdo alliance ( an alliance of Fano, TPLF and Eritrea) that it has to make a further mobilization. There has already been widespread forced conscription in the region for several months now.
The regional government normally does not respond to reports of massacre in the region. But this time it was quick to respond. On Thursday, it said “no directive was given to farmers to arm themselves.” Hailu Adugna, head of Oromia regional state communication office, is cited as saying “not only is the information incorrect but it is also irresponsible.” He added that it is the responsibility of the government to protect citizens’ security.
There had been a recurring massacre of unarmed civilians in the region , mostly ethnic Amharas, since after Abiy Ahmed took power. Human rights organizations – both from the country and abroad- released several statements about it. No official figure regarding the number of people massacred so far. Based on borkena reports over the years, thousands of ethnic Amhara were reportedly massacred in the region mostly in Wollega and Arsi area of the region.
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