Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis standard1
Published on 2024-02-13 10:49:42
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has released a preliminary report confirming that at least 45 civilians were recently killed in extrajudicial executions in various parts of the Amhara regional state’s east Gojam zone. This report substantiates claims made by the media, including Addis Standard.
The preliminary report also states that the killings were carried out by government security forces, who accused the victims of supporting the Fano armed group. The EHRC found that the victims included civilians who were arrested on suspicion of being Fano members, however, the exact number of those killed could not be confirmed at the time. Residents of the affected area described the killings as “execution-style.”
The EHRC has identified and confirmed the killing of 45 civilians based on a list of names gathered from various sources. It is expected that the actual death toll might be higher. At least 18 civilians were killed while in hiding after a confrontation between government security forces and the Fano armed group in Merawi town on January 20.
Furthermore, the report revealed that government security forces executed eight civilians in the Millennium settlement, accusing them of not cooperating in the search for a missing member. They also set fire to 12 three-wheeled bajajs. The EHRC expressed concern over the difficulty in gathering information regarding the extent of the killings due to the security situation and other related reasons.
The EHRC’s incomplete report also documented the killing of at least 15 people (including women) in Shebel Berenta District, Ye’edwha City on January 19. Additionally, six civilians were executed in Absara, Woybeyign Kebele on January 15. EHRC Chief Commissioner Dr. Daniel Bekele emphasized the importance of peaceful dialogue as the only lasting solution to the conflict, calling on all parties to implement it with determination.
The United States government has called for unfettered access by independent human rights monitors and an impartial investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. EHRC’s report also raised concerns about the implications of the state of emergency on human rights, the conflict casualties, the humanitarian crisis, and prolonged pre-trial detentions in Amhara regional state.
The content of the report and the ongoing conflict in the region have led to increased attention and calls for action by the international community. The situation in the Amhara region demands urgent humanitarian intervention and justice for the victims of extrajudicial executions. It is crucial for the involved parties to engage in peaceful dialogue to find a lasting solution to the conflict.
The preliminary report by the EHRC sheds light on the grave human rights violations taking place in the Amhara region and underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and impartial investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable.
Read the original article on Addis Standard
