Calls for de-escalation of tension in Ethiopia after killings

Moussa Faki Mahamat, the African Union chairperson, released a statement on Nov 3 strongly condemning the killing of innocent civilians following inter-communal violence in Ethiopia.

According to a statement released on Nov 2, the Ethiopia Human Rights Commission said that an attack by a group of up to 60 armed assailants had occurred in Ethiopia's Oromia region on Nov 1.

"The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission unequivocally condemns the massacre of civilians in Oromia region's Wollega zone. Official figures state a death toll of 32 civilians but preliminary evidence obtained by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission indicate the number is very likely to exceed the tally," the commission said in the statement.

While extending his condolences to the families of the victims and wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded, Mahamat called on Ethiopian authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of the heinous crimes are found and held accountable.

"Noting the rise in inter-communal violence in Ethiopia, I call on all stakeholders to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and work towards de-escalating tensions in the country. I further encourage political actors to engage in an inclusive national dialogue and build a national consensus around key issues," Mahamat said.

"Failure to engage in dialogue can have grave impacts not only in the country but the region as a whole. I reaffirm the African Union's support to the reforms initiated by the Ethiopian government and we stand ready to assist Ethiopia in its efforts to promote peace and stability in the country," he added.

A day after the attacks, the Oromia regional government released a statement saying the perpetrators belonged to the Oromo Liberation Army or OLA, a group blamed for kidnappings and bomb attacks in western and southern Ethiopia.