Fighting in Ethiopia's Amhara kills at least 183, UN says

According to the UN human rights office, the fighting between Ethiopia’s military and militiamen in the Amhara region has resulted in the death of at least 183 people. This independent death toll provides the most comprehensive information about the conflict, which has been ongoing for a month. As part of the government’s response to the violence, more than 1,000 people, mostly young individuals of ethnic Amhara origin, have been arrested throughout the country. The government spokesperson did not provide any immediate comments on the matter.

The conflict in Ethiopia’s second most populous region has been fueled by allegations from many in Amhara that the government is attempting to undermine their security. However, the government denies these claims. Despite the initial expulsion of government forces from major towns and cities in the region, they have since reclaimed control. Nevertheless, the conflict continues.

The UN statement called on all actors involved to cease killings, violations, and abuses, as federal forces reassert their presence in certain towns and Fano militias reportedly retreat into rural areas. On Sunday, fresh fighting broke out in the town of Debre Tabor, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals, as reported by two doctors. The clashes occurred about a week after Ethiopia’s military entered the town. The doctors spoke on condition of anonymity for safety reasons. One of them witnessed the bodies of four deceased individuals and multiple injuries, including his father-in-law who was shot in the chest by an unidentified gunman near his residence. The other doctor stated that seven individuals had died, including three civilians and four police officers who were supporting the military.

Reporting for this article was done by Emma Farge in Geneva and Dawit Endeshaw in Addis Ababa, with the writing completed by George Obulutsa. The article was edited by Aaron Ross and Nick Macfie.