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Impacts of Water Hyacinth Invasion on Lake Tana

The Ethiopian Affair


Discussing about the fate of Ethiopia
The Ethiopian Affair

Editor-in-Chief
Asnake Demena

/ Deputy Editors
Abebe Abidie

Daniel Moges
Daniel Shitie

Assistant Editors

Amin Rejawu

Tewachew Derebe

Secretary

Liya Nigussie

Coordinator
Daniel Kassa
Cover Design
Genet Tesfahun
Cartoonist
Alex Tefera

Biruk Mengist

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The Ethiopian Affair
Waldstrae 42A, 63589 Lisengericht
Mobile: 004915218187672
Email:
ethiopianaffair@gmail.com
Germany
2009 . August 2017 Volume 3 Issue No.3
The Ethiopian Affair

Content
3 Part II English 13
3 Mission statement 13
4 Editors Note 14
5 EPRDF's Dysfunctional Politics 15
6 TPLF: the main cause of Ethnic Conflict in Ethiopia 15
Ethiopia's Anti-Terrorism Law:
6 Security or Silencing Dissent? 16

7 Oromo People Struggle 17

7 Human Rights Abuses in Oromo people by TPLF 18

Our Flag: symbol of Liberty and dignity 19


? 8
Rent Seeking in Ethiopia 20
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Killings and Arrests of Oromo Protestors in Ethiopia 21
9
Hidden agenda of the TPLF to destroy
the Ethiopian orthodox Church 21
! 9
Massacare of Oromo people 24

! 10 Challenges of Semayawi party 25

11 Unity for Democracy and Justice arrests and tortured 26

12 We Demand justice 27

Detantion & Torture in Peacful Protesters 29


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Impacts of Water Hyacinth Invasion on Lake Tana 30

Corruption in Ethiopia 32

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Asnake Demena
Editor-in-Chief

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Part II English The Ethiopian Affair

Mission Statements
The Ethiopian Affair is a quarterly private Magazine established in September, 2014. It is voice
of the voiceless Ethiopians initiated by determined individuals to be published in Amharic and
English in Germany as well as beyond. The Ethiopian Affair is a print and online publication
dedicated to publishing latest information together with significant proposals. We used images
of three keys on the cover of this Magazine to symbolize mistrusts among Ethiopians, the
regime in power and opposition political parties. It is an obvious fact that Keys have been used
to lock away secret information and most valuable things of the greatest significances for
centuries. Consequently, we used images of the three keys to symbolize the ultimate quest of
Ethiopians for freedom, justice and democracy. Thus, our aim in this volume is to unlock the
range of political, social, economic and environmental issues that are locked before twenty
years but still affect all of us.
Editorials of the Ethiopian Affair strongly believe that information is a key to maintain power in
this twenty first century. Thus, we are committed to increase the circulation of information to
have a direct and positive effect on political, social, economic and environmental affairs of
Ethiopia in order to create a more inclusive democratic political system that involves all
stakeholders in it. Therefore, we encourage all Ethiopians regardless of their political, ethnic
and/or religion affiliation to actively participate in all affairs of the country without any
restriction. However, the opinions expressed in this Magazine are not necessarily those held by
Editorials of the Ethiopian Affair. Indeed, contrary views are most welcome to enhance further
discussion.

The Ethiopian Affair


The right Magazine in the
right place at the time!
Established in September, 2014

Established in September, 2014

13
2009 . August 2017 Volume 3 Issue No.3
The Ethiopian Affair

Editors Note
Institutionalized corruption
in Ethiopia
The artificial nature and the failure of representatives; local people dont have the
the countrys transformation to democratic power to rule themselves or vote corrupt
governance and its legacy to the deficit of the officials out of public offices. As the
political system once again open the door to consequence, like its hegemony in the
corruption and facilitated the political arena of the country, TPLF made
fertile breeding ground for the political itself to dominate the economic scenery of
gangrene. Ethiopias political landscape the country and monopolizes the economy of
seems to be dragged into a bottomless grave Ethiopia. Socially, the undesirable corruptive
by the EPRDF political cadres. Ethiopia is behavior is rampant in the country.
governed under a centralized form of Generally, corruption describes an
government and in the contemporary ailing economy that corruption is an outcome
Ethiopia corruption flourishes as institutions. of a weak state administration or ineffective
The significant causes of political governance. That is why currently the people
corruption in Ethiopia of Ethiopia defiantly refused to pay
are poor governance, lack of accountability shakedown taxes to the TPLF regime and
and transparency, low level of anti-tax movement against the TPLF with the
democratic culture and tradition, lack of slogan 'Taxation with out representation' is
citizen participation, lack of clear spreading throughout the country. Over the
regulation and authorization, low past years, the people of Ethiopia have
institutional control, extreme poverty and engaged in massive acts of civil resistance to
inequality. The citizens of the country are not the minority corrupted TPLF rule.
allowed to democratically elect their

Abebe Abidie /Deputy Editor

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EPRDF's Dysfunctional Politics The problem of power consolidation and


tribalism has been a plague in allover Africa for a
Abebe Abidie long time from the oldest nation like Ethiopia to
The minority regime has believed and
the youngest nation like South Sudan. Many
put in practice a fatal ruling system. As a
scholars raise a common reason for this
minority to rule Ethiopians (majority) is by
predicament, which is most of the leaders in
dividing, making it weak and disorganised
Africa came to power through either with war or
thorough its divide and rule policy. It has
coup de tat. But most of those wars and coups
created a structure that facilitate this division in
bear a slogan of freedom and democracy but the
form of federal boundaries. It has formulated
question is what kind of freedom and what kind
policies that ferments inflammatory remarks,
of democracy? Even those leaders who came to
false history, exaggeration and divisive acts
power with election suddenly stop preaching
among different ethnicities and religion to wage
about free election and persist on oppressing
division, animosity and war among ourselves.
opposition parties and lead them for civil war.
Protests in Oromia, Amhara and South regions
Being on power for life time can easily be
are viewed as indications that EPRDFs model of
associated with personal ego and refusal for the
governing through complete control over all
idea of subordination of personal interest from
levels of political and economic life could soon
national interest. And to make sure to stay on
reach its breaking point. The governments
power for life time the common formula for
intolerance of alternative political views is
whole African leaders is to be surrounded by
pushing the countrys diverse ethnic and political
their own loyal tribesmen. When the
communities to take to the streets to air their
government keeps on focusing tribalism as a
grievances.
main criterion for recruiting government
That is why world condemns the killing of
positions, people will suddenly start to
peaceful protesters and excessive use of force by
differentiate themselves based on tribe and
Ethiopian security forces; the detention of
suddenly tribal and ethnic incidents will arise.
journalists, students, activists and political
When ethnic group become the primary
leaders who exercise their constitutional rights
criterion for government position democracy
to freedom of assembly and expression through
and free election will disappear and parties will
peaceful protests; and the abuse of the Anti-
start to reshape based on ethnic group and
Terrorism Proclamation to stifle political and
sense of nationalism will start to diminish.
civil dissent and journalistic freedoms.
It is not a crime for someone to show
TPLF: the main cause of Ethnic belonging for his or her ancestors and ethnic
Conflict in Ethiopia group but the problem is when one ethnic group
Daniel Shitie began to oppress the other. Hundreds of
True leaders are willing to die for their thousands Africans have lost their precious lives
dreams. They dont oppress with ignorance; they and millions have displaced due to ethnic wars
impress with visions. That was Nelson and conflicts. Even if there are many reasons
Mandelas famous quote and everybody agree that can be raised as a main cause for ethnic
on the idea of having a leader that impress the conflicts, personally I blame governments. A
people with a powerful vision but the reality in government is responsible for building up
most African countries is an absolute inverse. nationalism in the mind of the people and a
Leaders struggle day and night to keep the government has to be an example in the idea of
power for life time and try so hard to be subordination of ethnic interest from national
surrounded by their tribe members and finally interest. A government is responsible to lead the
after they make sure that the power is in full people in a strong sense of putting the country
control they start preaching about how free and first. Ethiopian ethnic idea of ethnic interest and
democratic their government is. established to free single ethnic group from a

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country with over 80 ethnic groups. For the sake get rid of this ethnic government. Our freedom
of loyalty of ethnic interest almost all top will be real when we all become free together.
government positions and majority of middle Our people has been suffering with different
and lower level positions are granted to people kinds of problems for many years, enough is
from a single ethnic group. Ethiopia ethnic and enough, we do not have to sit and watch when
tribal issues started to since TPLF came to the so called Ethiopian government throw away
power. our nationalism and cheer us kill each other.
Now almost all Ethiopians have learned Ethiopia's Anti-Terrorism Law:
how to differentiate people based on Ethnic
group and surprisingly it has become quite
Security or Silencing Dissent?
normal. The government is fully responsible for Eyob Melaku (Troisdorf)
the consequences of this severe problem Terrorism is a term used in its broadest
because it has as a main policy for more than sense to describe the use of internationally
two decades without anticipating the complete indiscriminate violence to create terror or fear,
negative result just only for the sake of keeping to achieve a political, religious or ideological
an absolute power. aim. Terrorism comes from the French word
Sometimes it is difficult to blame certain Terrorisme, and originally specifically to state
ethnic group for putting their ethnic group first terrorism as practised by the French government
after they suffered a lot based on their ethnic during the 1793-1794 reign of terror. The French
group. The Ethiopian government is the main word terrorisme in turn derives from the Latin
verb terrere meaning to frighten. The Jacobins
reason for the problem of tribalism and its
coming to power in France in 1792, are said to
future consequences because it is the
have initiated the reign of Tertor after the
government that first throw away nationalism
and started running a policy of tribalism. Jacobins lost power "terrorist" become a term of
As we all know Ethiopian government is abuse. Although "terrorism" originally referred
not nationally elected government rather it is an to acts committed by a government, currently it
ethnic group which came to power by force and usually refers to the killing of innocent people
for political purpose in such away a spectacle.
segregate the rest of the people based on race
The definition of terrorism has proven
and ethnic group. It shouldnt be quite surprising
controversial, various legal systems and
if other ethnic groups start organizing
themselves based on ethnic group but I am not government agencies used different definitions
saying it is right, it is completely wrong but what of terrorism in their national legislation. For
I am trying to pinpoint is the main source of the Ethiopia proclamation of anti- terrorisom
problem. The main source of the problem is the designed the right of people to live in pace,
government. We should have stopped it years freedom and security must be protected, at all
ago when the government started putting ethnic times, from the threat of terrorisom but Laws in
groups on our personal identification card. We Ethiopia designed to prosecute terrorism are
should have protected our nationalism years ago increasingly being used to silence political
when the government started to organize dissidents, opposition party members,
political parties based on ethnic groups. I dont journalists and others in civil society. At this
think it is too late we can get back our moment when anybody want to write the
weakness of government on Facebook, magazine
nationalism after we get rid of this undemocratic
tyrannical regime. or other social media based on political
Ethiopian government has to stop democracy of the country is not possible
segregating Ethiopians based on their Ethnic because the dictatorial regime of the country
said anti -terrorism and send to prison without
group. For multinational country like Ethiopia
any precondition. Let us see evidence, Yonatan
Ethnic freedom will never be a long lasting
Tesfaye, a former spokesman of the Semayawi
solution, our freedom will become real when we
(Blue) party, was detained in December 2015 on

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charges under Article 4 of Ethiopia's Anti- new EPRDF government. Over the years, Oromo
Terrorism Proclamation. Eleven statements from protests have been broken up multiple times by
his Facebook page were used as evidence. His the police and the military. On 4 January 2004
posts were critical of the way the Ethiopian for instance, dozens of protesting Oromo
government handled the crackdown during the students were arrested and transferred from
protests throughout the Oromia region. The Addis Ababa University to an undisclosed place
Ethiopian government charged him with of detention. They were participating in a
planning or inciting terror acts but Yonatan was peaceful demonstration by members of the
only expressing his thoughts, which are Oromo ethnic group. In another incident, scores
protected by the constitution. The court decided of people were arrested near Jimma in the
six years and six months in prison. Lewis Gordon Oromia region, over 300 kilometers southwest of
is the executive director of the Environmental the capital Addis Ababa, on 26 August 2004.
Defender Law Centre, which helps people in They were detained at Agaro Prison without
developing countries who face threats due to access to a lawyer or their families and without
advocacy for the environment or human rights. charge or trial. The students were not brought to
He said the Ethiopian law was enacted in 2009 as court within the 48-hour period.
an anti-terror measure, but he believes its real During the Oromia protests against the
aim was something different. Addis Ababa Master Plan in April-May 2014,
"There's ample evidence that it was Amnesty International documented the use of
designed more as a tool to stifle legitimate excessive force by police and security officials.
dissent to policies of the government there," he During and after the protests, police and security
said. The main evidence is that the wording of officials beat hundreds of people, including
the law is extremely vague. For instance, Part 2, protesters, bystanders and parents of protesters
Section 3 of the law describes a terrorist group for failing to control their children, resulting in
as "intending to advance a political, religious or hundreds of deaths and injuries in locations
ideological cause by coercing the government, including Ambo, Jimma, Nekemte, Wallega,
intimidating the public or section of the public, Dembi Dollo, Robe town, Madawalabu and
or destabilizing or destroying the fundamental Haromaya. A woman who attended a protest in
political, constitutional or economic, or social Guder town told Amnesty International: On the
institutions of the country. It is a law with third day of protests, the military came to the
breath-taking wide provisions especially its street and were waiting for them. When the kids
definition of terrorism," Gordon said. The came to protest again, the military just started
dictatorial regime of the country always believes shooting at them. Oromo protests against the
by power when the people ask political question Addis Ababa Master Plan erupted again in late
or write something differ from the regime 2015. The government labelled the protesters as
opinion in meeting stage or other situation they terrorists and escalated its response against
send spying to betting, violence or arrested with them, resulting in deaths, injuries and the mass
contacting proclamation of anti-terrorism. arrest of protesters, opposition party leaders
Ethiopia's anti-terrorism law is not security of and journalists. The ATP permits up to four
nation and nationality people of Ethiopia months of pre-trial detention, which
because it's silence political dissidents, contravenes international human rights
opposition party members, journalists and other standards. Amnesty International has
in civil society. documented the widespread use of torture and
Oromo People Struggle other ill-treatment of protesters during this
lengthy pre-trial detention period. The Federal
Eliyas Ebrahim Chota police, regional police and the military killed
In November 1991, Amnesty
children as young as twelve years of age during
International reported the killing of at least 20
the protests. The security forces and the military
demonstrators who were protesting against the

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have discharged live ammunition, and beaten up cases, bystanders resulting in deaths and
protestors, wounding hundreds of people. They injuries. After security forces forcibly dispersed
have also conducted mass arrests during the the protesters, perceived leaders of the protests
protests as well as its aftermath. In May 2005, were subsequently arrested and prosecuted.
widespread protests broke out in Addis Ababa Restrictions on the right to peaceful assembly of
and other towns over contested results of the political opposition parties intensified during
Federal and Regional Parliament election. Police campaigns in the run-up to the May 2015
and other security service agents conducted general elections, in which the EPRDF won 100
mass arrests of political opposition party percent of the votes. For instance, on 19 May
activists as well as journalists and civil society 2015, Bekele Gerba and other members of the
activists. Thousands of people were detained Oromo Federalist Congress were campaigning in
and many were beaten, tortured or otherwise ill- Oromia when police and local security officers
treated, and detained without charge or trial for beat, arrested and detained them for a couple of
significant periods of time. In December 2005, hours. More than 500 members of Medrek, an
131 opposition leaders, journalists and civil umbrella group of political opposition parties,
society activists were charged with a range of were arrested at various polling stations in the
capital offences, including treason, incitement to Oromia region on 24 and 25 May 2015. Security
armed uprising and genocide against an ethnic officers beat and injured 46 people during the
group and members of the ruling party. elections; six people sustained gunshot wounds
Regional and Federal Police also and two were killed.
conducted pre-emptive arrests following the Human Rights Abuses in Oromo
Arab Spring in North African and Middle
Eastern countries. Amnesty International
people by TPLF
observed: In early 2011, the authorities made Jemila Abbaraya
large-scale arrests which appeared to be pre- Almost three year ago, the Ethiopian
emptive to prevent demonstrations from government announced the Addis Ababa Master
taking place. Hundreds of students and Plan, which proposed an expansion of Ethiopias
capital into surrounding farms within the Oromia
opposition political party members were
region. The Oromo, who make up 40% of
arrested across Oromia, large numbers of
Ethiopias population, frequently complain about
opposition political party members, students
and other dissenters, including independent their lack of representation in the capital, and,
journalists and advocates of reform, were following the announcement of the master plan,
arrested.Members of Oromo political Oromo demonstrators gathered to show their
opposition parties were arrested by security disapproval and anger. The protests quickly
forces in August and September 2011, as well as turned violent. On December 16, 2015, Prime
a number of students in August 2011. More than Minister Haile Mariam Desalegn declared that he
75 students from Wallega and Adama would show no mercy towards the protesters.
universities and Gimbi town were arrested that In January, after 140 people had been
following December. In 2012-2013, Muslims in killed, the government decided to withdraw the
Ethiopia staged a protest against alleged plan. In a statement government officials
government interference- the government claimed to have huge respect for the Oromo
and explained that the opposition to the plan
sponsored teaching of al habash
interpretations of Quran- in Islamic affairs. was based on a misunderstanding. For many
Amnesty International received reports of protesters, this response was too little, too late.
several incidents in which security services used According to an amnesty international report,
even after the master plan was scrapped, the
excessive force against peaceful protestors,
Ethiopian government continued to imprison
including firing live ammunition on unarmed
Oromo leaders and marginalize members of the
protestors, beating up protestors and in some
Oromo ethnic group. Protesters refused to go

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back home, and their demands broadened to restored Internet, but social media and
include fair political representation and basic messaging platforms are still blocked throughout
human rights protections. Though Ethiopia the country.
claims to be a democracy, countless hurdles Unfortunately, the government refuses
impede the formation of rival political parties to acknowledge the valid concerns of Oromo and
and their attempts to obtain power. For the Amhara dissidents and the legitimacy of their
Oromo, their oppression at the hands of the protests. Rather, they have denounced
Tigrayans, who make up only 6% of the countrys dissidents for disturbing the peace. In a recent
population, is unacceptable. It is also nothing sttatement
new. The Oromo have been marginalized since These protests have the ability to lead to
before 1973, which is when they formed the political change for the first time, the Oromo
Oromo Liberation Front (OLF).When the and Amhara oppositions have coalesced into a
Ethiopian Peoples Revolutionary Democratic single force against the government, and now
Party (EPRDF) came to power in 1991, the OLF pose a greater threat to Ethiopias political
joined the transitional government. leadership. The authoritarian regimes increasing
Unfortunately, it was not long before the EPRDF fear of subversion could make it more
created another Oromo party, the Oromo responsive to its citizens needs. The Oromo
Peoples Democratic Organization, in order to need a stable government just as much as the
weaken the OLF. Now, the Oromo are back on government needs the Oromia regionthe
the streets, fighting for their rights. source of much of Ethiopias food and most of its
In July, the protests worsened, coffee
expanding into Ethiopias Amhara region. After Political change in Ethiopia is critical. The
the Oromo, the Amhara are the second largest Oromo are a historically oppressed group that
ethnic group in Ethiopia, and over the past few have not been offered the same economic and
months, tens of thousands have come together political opportunities as the Tigrayans. It is
to demonstrate against government oppression unlikely that the protests will end until the
and ethnic violence. government acknowledges their legitimacy and
The governments response has been agrees to implement reforms. For now, it is
brutal. Since the protests began, approximately unlikely that the opposition will trust the current
800 people have been killed. The police have ruling coalition, the EPRDF, to make necessary
responded to peaceful protests with violence, changes. For years, it has simultaneously
exacerbating the existing tensions: reports that promised to implement reforms and violated
in one instance, the police fired tear gas and human rights. Until they are truly held
warning shots at a group of protesters attending accountable to their people or a new coalition
a religious festival. When the protesters turned comes to power, hundreds more Ethiopian
to run away, several people were crushed to dissidents will likely be mercilessly killed and
death, leading to a total death toll of tortured, and thousands imprisoned.
approximately 100 according to human rights Our Flag: symbol of Liberty and
groups, and 55 according to the government.
Furthermore, the government has conducted
dignity
mass arrests as part of a larger campaign to Teketel Beyene (Sweden)
It is time to prepare for the unknowns
silence civilians. , more than 11,000 people have
been arrested since the demonstrations began of tomorrow for when it comes, we must
last year. Of these, more than 300 are women. confront it, first as people of shared humanity
The government has also restrained free speech and then as Ethiopians; not by our differences,
but by what unifies usour homes, the land we
by shutting down all mobile Internet to prevent
all share and the mixed blood of our ancestors .
communications and isolate those dissidents
In order to confront our tomorrow, we
outside of prison. the government partially
should all be standing together as one family,

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the Ethiopian family to demand a New Ethiopia without contributing any significant wealth creating
where everyone is included; where my justice activities. They are companies in rent - seeking by
will not come without the justice of my using their capital to contribute to political and also
neighbor. there are people who used their power so as to
Every ethnic groups in Ethiopia are our twist the decision of government in favor of
beloved brothers and sisters; valued and themselves to create different law and regulations.
treasured by God Almighty who created all of us. Rent - seeking behavior include bureaucratic,
They are us! We Ethiopians are not like TPLF Said corruption, political violence, lobbing, abusive
we all we are one Ethiopian. judicial and influence the decision and policy of the
Yes, those who committed crimes of government. In the present of Ethiopia who is rent
destruction under the TPLF/EPRDF will face seeker individual,company, political parties, or
justice, but for anyone else, the New Ethiopia government of Ethiopia. Government of Ethiopia or
will include all our Ethiopian brothers and sisters ruling party itself is rent seeker by abuse power, by
in a more human, more God-honoring Ethiopia. making different law and regulations to benefit
Whenever I look at our magnificent and pure party company, owned by ruling party, ruling class.
flag of Green,Yellow and Red (without satanic Government of Ethiopia duty to rent seeking
symbol of ethnic hatred regime TPLF/EPRDF in behavior monopolized the market affect the
the center) my heart swell with the splendor. economy reduced competition this led to affect
Nothing more honorable, than to love people welfare. Nowadays, they reach 80
your people, your country and embraced your company owned by TPLF and under the control of
humanity. I love seeing our Ethiopian flag waves EFFORT. Now a days not only control political but
proudly over our ancient land. Nothing more also the economy of the country in every aspect
dignifying than weaving one owns country's industry business , finance and banking . In
flag. It is inspiring to see our Green,Yellow and banking sector, new company own by TPLF enter to
Red waves in the breeze with pride. the finical and banking sector like, lion,
Nothing more coveted than Freedom. debubglobal, etc. To those company in favour
And that is why I choose to fight against injustice national bank set rule and regulations to other
and defense Ethiopia unity and believe in the private bank. National bank makes forces to buy
principles of liberty, equality, united Ethiopia bonds, other private bank can't make transaction,
where there is justice for all. because capital so tight, they can't give loan to
That is why I have a dream one day our other and other activities so they will run out of the
flag: Green,Yellow and Red stripes (without the market. When we come to the other companies
Satanic symbol in the middle) will waves freely in owned by effort and the way expanded by directly
the wind and above our ancient land. I have a transfer from government to effort or through
dream of a new and United Ethiopia where all purchase or bid from government with list price,
the citizens can live in harmony and in a country also they can buy through loan of government
which values freedom above all else. May God bank. When we come to other business activities,
protect all our precious people. May the for those who have connection with TPLF or
Almighty God free our grand country from the indirectly owned by, they can import without
ethnic terror or dictatorship and letting our flag taxed this led to prices differntion in the market, to
continue waving freely until the end of Time. those inter material without taxed get higher profit
Rent Seeking in Ethiopia also they can sell any price or Lower one, those
Heaven Muane taxed are unprofitable, difficult to compute with
As we know we all hear in different media or them, run of the market. even taxed payment
government agenda about rent seeking. What is from revenue for government also different among
rent seeking is earing beyond normal profit or max company. For many company difficult to resist.
profit but rent seeker are individuals, group, or civil In general ruling party (TPLF) highly involved
servant in one way or the other transfer wealth interacted the business activity they can shift any

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law & regulations in terms of their benefits, high without charge, and without access to legal counsel
corrupted, they can destroy the other company or or family members.
existed in market. For one country to develop it This report is based on more than 125
need open market, free competition but Not interviews with witnesses, victims, and government
monopolized, for the society it creates many officials. It documents the most significant patterns
problems, increasing gap between rich and poor, of human rights violations during the Oromo
increasing unemployment, capital it led also protests from late 2015 until May 2016.
capital hold by in fewer hands that affect the In November 2015 when the protests
economy etc. They affected both social, started, protesters initially focused their concerns
economically but they benefit under the expanse of on the federal governments approach to
Ethiopia people. Now a day they control not development, particularly the proposed expansion
only politics but also the economic, the TPLF of the capitals municipal boundary through the
become more powerful rent seeker und dictator. Addis Ababa Integrated Development Master Plan
Killings and Arrests of Oromo (the Master Plan). Protesters feared that the
Master Plan would further displace Oromo farmers,
Protestors in Ethiopia many of whom have been displaced for
Fatiyaa Awel Mustefa development projects over the past decade. Such
State security forces in Ethiopia have used developments have benefitted a small elite while
excessive and lethal force against largely peaceful having a negative impact on local farmers and
protests that have swept through Oromia, the communities.
countrys largest region, since November 2015.
As the protests continued, the government
Over 400 people are estimated to have been killed,
in mid-January 2016 made a rare concession and
thousands injured, tens of thousands arrested, and
announced the cancellation of the Master Plan. But
hundreds, likely more, have been victims of by then protester grievances had widened due to
enforced disappearances. the brutality of the government response,
The protests began on November 12, 2015, particularly the high death toll and mass arrests.
in Ginchi, a small town 80 kilometers southwest of Farmers and other community members joined the
Ethiopias capital, Addis Ababa, which is
protesting students, raising broader economic,
surrounded by Oromia region and home to most of
political and cultural grievances shared by many in
Ethiopias estimated 35 million Oromo, the
the ethnic Oromo community.
countrys largest ethnic group. The decision of
authorities in Ginchi to clear a forest and football Hidden agenda of the TPLF to
field for an investment project triggered protests in destroy the Ethiopian orthodox
at least 400 different locations across all the 17 Church
zones in Oromia. Tabor Mekonnen
Security forces, according to witnesses, According to affirmation given by
shot into crowds, summarily killing people during Aregawi Berhe, one of the founders of Tigray
mass roundups, and torturing detained protesters. Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF) destroying the
Because primary and secondary school students in oldest Ethiopian orthodox Tewahido church is
Oromia were among the early protesters, many of hidden agenda of the front for many years.
those arrested or killed were children under the Why should our Holly Ethiopian orthodox
age of 18. Security forces, including members of Tewahido church was set under the domination
the federal police and the military, have arbitrarily of single ethnic group from the patriarch to
arrested students, teachers, musicians, opposition cleaner? Why should the resources and finance
politicians, health workers, and people who department of the church was set under the rule
provided assistance or shelter to fleeing students. of those who came from Tigrigna speaking Ethnic
Although many have been released, an unknown group? Like other governmental and none-
number of those arrested remain in detention governmental institution within the country
(Ethio-telecom, National and commercial banks,

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armies and federal policeetc) the highest was raised by the regional government and
administrative position of the church is given to many others; leader of Kulubi Saint Gabriel
Tigregna speaking priests and popes. As a result, church lead the church for about 24 years.
they believe no one should ask them for fault Sacking the administrator from Kulubi Church
and fraud they commit inside the church. Due to was impossible for TPLF because the official
this they make themselves busy in transferring bank account of the church shows in the month
themselves from shanty house residents to Villa December and July at the celebration of the
owner by embezzling our church; rather than Angle Gabriel more than 90 million Ethiopian
providing service expected to provide for the birr was collected. It is huge income.
followers. The effort and struggle to destroy
At his stay at Sheger FM 102.1 radio with Ethiopian Orthodox Church is here and there
the known journalist Meaza Biru; when asked throughout the country. Destruction movement
about the rampant of corruption inside the observed in Tigray regional state (Shire, Adwa,
church surrounding; holy patriarch answered, Adigrat and Mekelle) is not accidental
let leave it, the issue is so hard and trying to movement rather it is a planned and obviously
abolish it means trying to snatch meat from the intended by allocating budget for it. In Adigrat
chin of lion. So, it is impossible to eliminate University wearing Netela or t-shirt that has
corruption found within the administrative of churchs catchword is forbidden. The origin of
the church due to the above-mentioned reason. Ethiopian Orthodox Church is obviously known in
Those who engaged in this criminal practice are the country. So, to destroy the church in totality
from ruling party ethnic groups. These people destroying Orthodox Church found in Tigray or
are not asked by law for the crime they commit, the origin is taking is essential for TPLF. Waldeba
they are not sent to correctional institutions for Monastry is sample that shows destroying the
their misdeed. Those Sunday school students ancient Orthodox Church will be the long-term
who oppose leader involved in such crime were plan of TPLF. Without losing arable land in each
tortured by police officers and sent to jail. Their corner of the country destroying Waldeba
school was closed due to their opposition. Clergy Monastery for the sake of sugar industry
men who oppose those corrupted church leaders development is disregarding 50 million followers
are also expelled from serving the church, down- of the church.
graded or sent to exiled in border town away In his PhD dissertation paper which is
from their childrens and families. To collect later published as a book; Aregawi Berhe, one of
money from the follower priests from Tigray TPLF influential members at the beginning of
were hired in each churches of Addis Ababa. their revolt uttered the hidden plan of
Obliteration of our church will continue until destruction of the church. Until he was banished
TPLF is in power. So, we all Ethiopian people are out by Sibhat Nega due to the split that takes
expected to say enough for TPLF rules. place within TPLF; Doctor Aregawi Berhe was
Those disciples graduating from different one of the nucleus of TPLF. But in 1985GC with
theological college in degree and master other members of the party Gidey Zereatsion,
program are influenced not to preach gospel in Doctor Aregawi Berhe was expelled from the
their mother tongue or forbid advocating the party with a tape Gangrin.
followers not to give Waldeba Monastery for The arrangement of TPLF how to destroy
none-believers. On the contrary the movements and demolish the Ethiopian orthodox Tewahido
of protestant are expanding from time to time. Church clearly stated on the book The political
In each church within the capital city starting History of the Tigray peoples Liberation Front
from the leader each position was occupied by (1975 -1991) Revolt, Ideology and mobilization
Tigregna speaking men. Oromo and other in Ethiopia by Aregawi Berhe PhD July 2009.
Ethiopian are marginalized harshly by this group The book or dissertation consist many truths.
as a result. As an example, even though question But I preferred to focus and contest basic

2009 . August 2017 Volume 3 Issue No.3


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premise raised on Ethiopian Orthodox Church Gebez. Any layman can become a Gebez. The
from page 244 to 246. According to Aregawi, person who becomes Kese Gebez was elected
TPLF is trying to apply a policy of Neutralizing by the follower and then approved by the
the Church and mobilizing Muslims Neutralize church.
meaning: make (something) ineffective by In 1974GC when the military junta
applying an opposite force or effect. This and regime introduced socialism and abolishes
other factor makes the relationship between the feudalism; it becomes an end for church
church and TPLF ridiculous. government relationship. By 1974 proclamation
In Ethiopias long history as statehood, incorporation of all national land under
the church is dominant and central in social life government control the socialist Dergue
of the society in each corner of the country. inherited all land found under the church
Marriage, epiphany, graving ceremony and even control. The then patriarch of the Ethiopian
dispute resolution among member of the society Orthodox Church his Holiness Abune Tewoflos
is held within the compound of the church. So, was assassinated by ruling elites. In 1975GC the
to provide service for the followers of the church falls under great hullabaloo raised
church, many priests were found there. Each between Marxist Leninist ideology promoter and
family has his own holly father(priest)which the north rebellions. The church observed its
follows the familys religious life. So, the church hope on right wing ideology promoter like EDU.
has highest attachment with the society. Stand But there is nothing gained. So, the church
side by side with past kings. Starting from local stands on cross road like TPLF.
neighbourhood to the national level the church TPLF observed the crucial role that the
has highest integration. This becomes socio- church has on social and cultural life of the
cultural bases of the country. The church has community and unity of the country. The front
also played prominent role in resolving quarrels also observed the collaboration between the
happened between kings and rival by involving church and opposition parties due to inheritance
as negotiator. The church preaches its follower of church land by Dergue government. So the
respects of king and officials ruling the country. church is standing on the ways of the front and it
On the bases of this the church has the power to must be kept sympathetically. Even though
use national flag as a symbol. This is also TPLFs is promoter of Marxists ideology it will
common in national army. not be anti-church practically. But there will be a
The third point is that the legitimacy of need to make the church under its control. To
any king to rule the country is approved by the make the church passive and reluctant on
church. Crowning the king is take place in Tigrie political issues TPLF takes many massive
Axum Zion church. In return, the kings pay destruction measures on the church.
tribute for the church. Samon is land the The first measure is not to return back
government had granted to the Ethiopian the inherited church land by the Dergue
Orthodox Church in perpetuity (time without government. So it will weaken the economic
end). Based on this the church owns one third of capability of the church and will abolish the
the total farm land in the country. The local hope of coming back of many revolt parties like
people also give their land for the protection and EDU. The long lasting economic strength of the
continuation of service provided by the church. church was broken due to inheritance of
The priests were paid in kind or land for the churchs land. The regime faces opposition due
service they give for the church. Since land is to its inheritance of church land. The fear
very essential ingredient in feudal community initiated by societys opposition on inheritance
economy most young people become a priest to of church land make TPLF vow for protection of
gain farm land found under control of the church land. Because of this the church was
church. Land found under the control of the forced to establish new social compulsion with
church was administered by a priest known as its followers. Farmer started to plough priests

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land for the service they receive from the Dr. Aregawi Berhe tries to show as
priests. interference of TPLF within churchs
The second measure taken was to administrative body within 3 pages. He tries to
changing the attention of association outside the show as the invisible confront that TPLF putted
church arena. The administrative and social role on Orthodox Church up to 1983 E.C. Starting
of the church was replaced by cooperatives and from 1991 GC Ethiopian Orthodox Church is
associations. Even duties and right of the church facing severe challenge and destruction for
fall under associations decision. So, the about 26 years under TPLF regime. It this is
influentiality of the church was weakened due to visible for all Ethiopian and world people.
these reasons. The church loses its conflict Ethiopia is land of God. We Ethiopian people
resolution capacity and involvement in familys oppose the hidden agenda held by TPLF to
life. This is because the newly coming leaders of destroy the Ethiopia Orthodox church.
the country does not want it. Reference: Aregawi Berhe, 2009.The Tigray
The third measure taken was that Peoples Liberation Front (1975-1991): Revolt,
starting from 1977GC consecutive meetings and Ideology and Mobilisation in Ethiopia.
panel discussion was held with selected church Massacare of Oromo people
leader with the core objectives of promoting Abdulshukur Nesru Jemal
Tigrien Nationalism on the minds of others to Baga ganna nagaan baatanii booqaa
separate the Tigrean church from the vast birraa argitan. Good that the rainy season is over
Ethiopian Orthodox church. for you and that you came to see the spot of the
The abused Tigray people nationalism sunny flowering season. The expression signifies
was a challenge to the church. Those panel
the end of one season and the beginning of another
discussions held at Wereda level was given by
season, which incidentally is the beginning of a new
the one of the then orator, TPLF member and
year according to Oromo time reckoning. This is not
theology graduates G/Kidan Desta . The
objective of the panel was to replace the church the only expression in Irreecha festival as the event
leadership by Tigrean and place in TPLF ideology is characterized by vast and varieties of expressions,
within the church. In order to weaken the stories and sequences of cultural displays.
churchs power intelligent group lead by Sibhat Thanksgivings to God (Waaqa) the creator
Nega was established. The members of the (Uumaa).
group change themselves into monk and Genocide against Oromo The TPLF has
interred into those monasteries found in Tigray committed people by murdering in a broad day
and worked hard to pressurize the church to light peaceful people who gathered at Bishoftu to
accept TPLFs ideology. Between 1979 and 1981 Celebrate Irrecha, the Oromo National Thanks
clergy men assembly was held on those towns Giving Festival celebration on October 2, 2016. The
liberated by TPLF. To establish Tigrian Orthodox TPLF attacked peaceful people on the ground and
church office was opened at Woreda and from the air by killing hundreds and wounding
Regional Level. Due to this the church, thousands. At Irrecha, Oromo from all corners of
administrative body was divided into two Oromiya dressing their cultural clothes and caring
practically. The first work under the regime and olive branch as sign of peace and prosperity get
the other worked under TPLF. Both churchs together to celebrate their national holiday.
administrative body are working till 1982 EC. The TPLF fascist regime which intoxicated
When TPLF controlled Mekelle the regimes
with the blood of innocent Oromo people for the
administration retreated to Diese. The
last 25 years, particularly for the last 11 months has
administrative office found in librated area
ordered its army on the ground and the Helicopter
comes to Mekelle. It was stayed there until TPLF
from the air to attack peaceful innocent people
came to power in 1983EC .
who gathered at Hora Arsadi, Bishoftu for national
Irrecha Celebration.

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The Oromo Liberation Front strongly Research Directorate within the time constraints of
condemns this callous massacre by the TPLF this Response.
Regime , and resolute that the TPLF regime will be Several sources report that on 2 June 2013,
accountable for the genocide it has committed the Semayawi Party organized the first
against Oromo people who came together from all government-permitted public protest since 2005
corners of Oromiya to Celebrate and thank their (The Guardian 3 June 2013; US 19 Apr. 2014, 15;
Almighty at Hora Arsadi , Bishoftu, Oromiya. IHS Global Insight 4 June 2013). The protest
The murderous regime of TPLF should occurred in Addis Ababa (ibid.; The Africa Report 3
know that it will not control oromiya and its June 2013; The Independent 5 June 2013). The
number of protesters ranged from government
resources by killing its people. The glorious Oromo
estimates of 2,000 (VOA 3 June 2013), to 4,000
people will hunt the TPLF Regime down to make
(The Economist 8 June 2013), to estimates by
sure that they will pay for all crimes they have
organizers of 15,000-20,000 (VOA 3 June 2013).
committed against Oromo people in particular and Sources report that the protest was peaceful and
Ethiopian peoples in general. the police did not intervene (The Economist 8 June
We call upon all Oromo and other political 2013; SMNE 5 June 2013). Rally participants
organizations to be united to dismantle The TPLF included people from different parties, ethnicities,
callous & fascist regime. There remains no moral or religions and regions (ibid.). Similarly, VOA reported
legal justification to demand the respect of that participants represented "a broad spectrum of
peoples rights from the regime that used machine Ethiopian youth" (VOA 3 June 2013).
guns on the ground and on the air against peace Sources indicate that the protesters called
full people. All Ethiopian people should use all for the release of imprisoned journalists and
means necessary to dismantle the genocidal and political activists and government action to address
murderous TPLF regime and its collaborators. unemployment, corruption and inflation (The Africa
The OLF will do everything to make sure Report 3 June 2013; IHS Global Insight 4 June
the TPLF will not get away with all crimes it has 2013; The Independent 5 June 2013). They also
been committing against peoples in Ethiopia, and called for the stop of state "interference in religious
especially the mass murder it has committed affairs" (IPS 6 June 2013; SMNE 5 June 2013).
against Oromo people at Irrecha National Thanks According to IHS Global Insight, in June and
giving Holiday on October 2, 2016. July of 2013, the Semayawi Party staged protests in
the northern Amhara and Southern Nations
Challenges of Semayawi party Nationalities and Peoples (SNNP) regions against
Yohannes Tikahere the "harassment of opposition members and the
The Semayawi Party staged several controversial land redistribution system" (IHS
protests in 2013-2014 during which a number of Global Insight 30 July 2013). They also threatened
the demonstrators and organizers were arrested to increase the frequency of protests if the
and temporarily detained (AI 26 Apr. 2014). government did not release political prisoners by
Similarly, Freedom House reported that the August 2013 (ibid.). Corroborating and further
Semayawi party said that the government arrested information about these protests could not be
large groups of their members and held them found among the sources consulted by the
without charge (Freedom House 2014). Research Directorate within the time constraints of
The US Department of State's Country this Response.
Reports on Human Rights Practices for Sources report that on 31 August 2013,
2013 indicates that some people were arrested in authorities raided the Semayawi party's
connection to a 17 March 2013 protest organized headquarters (US 19 Apr. 2014, 15; Ethiomedia 1
by the Semayawi Party (US 19 Apr. 2014, 15). Sept. 2013; AI 5 Sept. 2013). According to AI,
Further information about this protest could not be federal police and intelligence officers forcefully
found among the sources consulted by the entered their office in Ginfle in Addis Ababa while

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members were preparing for a demonstration the detention (ibid.). Al Mariam, a professor of political
following day and all members present (estimated science at the State University of California at San
at 60-90) were arrested and detained, but were Bemadino who specializes in constitutional law and
released without charge several hours later (ibid.). African politics and is a self-declared supporter of
A number of the party members who were the Semayawi Party, indicated in a blog article that
detained told AI that they and many others were the women were victims of threats and physical
"severely beaten" and sustained injuries while in assaults while in detention (Mariam 16 Mar. 2014).
custody (ibid.). Sources report that 60-100 people Sources indicate that in March of 2014,
were temporarily detained and some were beaten security officials at the Addis Ababa airport held
(ibid.; US 19 Apr. 2014, 15; BBC 2 Sept. 2013). In the chairman of the Semayawi Party and prevented
addition, the police reportedly confiscated him from traveling to the US to attend a US-
equipment from the office (AI 5 Sept. 2013; Human sponsored training session for African leaders
Rights Watch 2014). Human Rights Watch reports (Ethiomedia 22 Mar. 2014; Semayawi Party 22 Mar.
that the planned protest was cancelled as a result 2014).
of the raid (ibid.). AI indicated that a government AI reported that the Semayawi Party told
spokesperson denied the action against the them that 20 of its members were arrested on 24
Semayawi party, but AI noted that the allegations and 25 April 2014, including the Vice Chairman of
"fit a long-standing pattern of credible reports of the party, and were detained in multiple police
intimidation of peaceful protestors and of political stations in Addis Ababa (AI 26 Apr. 20 14). The
opposition parties" (AI 5 Sept. 2013). Corroborating chairman was also reportedly detained at this time,
information could not be found among the sources but later released (ibid.).
consulted by the Research Directorate within the All and Human Rights Watch reported that
time constraints of this Response. on 8 July 2014, Semayawi member Yeshewas Asefa
According to the Ethiopian Review, the was arrested, along with three members of other
following leaders and members of the party were political parties, on "'terror"' charges (Human
detained by authorities as they left the office on 11 Rights Watch 19 July 2014; AI 10 July 2014).
October 2013: the Semayawi Party Chairman, Vice According to AI, he was being held in the Maikelawi
Chairman, Head of Legal Affairs, Head of Office, federal police detention centre in Addis Ababa but
Head of Women's Affairs, a member of the Central Semayawi party members who tried to visit him in
Committee, a member of the Central Council and detention were denied access until after the police
five other members (Ethiopian Review 12 Oct. investigation was concluded (ibid.). According to AI
2013). and Human Rights Watch, detainees at Maikelawi
According to the Semayawi Party website, are sometimes subject to "torture" during
14 members of the Semayawi Party, including the interrogation (ibid.; Human Rights Watch 2014). AI
Organization Affairs Head, the Legal Affairs Head, also states that "'terror"' charges are "commonly
the Public Relations Head, and the Youth Affairs used as a pretext to put dissenters behind bars in
Head, were arrested in the town of Gonder in Ethiopia" (AI 10 July 2014). According to Freedom
February 2014 for attempting to hold a peaceful House, in 2011, more than 100 members of
public demonstration (Semayawi Party 17 Mar. opposition parties had been detained under the
2014). 2009 antiterrorism law.
Sources report that in March 2014, seven Unity for Democracy and Justice
female members of the Semayawi party were
arrested after they chanted slogans calling for
arrests and tortured
freedom, justice and the release of political Tewachew Derebe
prisoners during a run to mark International According to Amnesty international
report the opposition Unity for Democracy and
Women's Day (Mariam 16 Mar. 2014; AI 26 Apr.
Justice party (UDJ) has also reported that
2014). According to AI, the women were released
numerous members of the party were arrested
without charges after spending ten days in
in various locations around the country during

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July and August 2013. All were reportedly The government has continually
arrested whilst distributing flyers promoting a attempted to discredit the movement and to
series of demonstrations and public meetings associate it with extremism and terrorism. A few
and a related petition demanding the days before the Blue Party demonstration
amendment or abrogation of the Anti-Terrorism planned for 1 September, the government-allied
Proclamation and the release of UDJ and other Inter-Religious Council announced that a
political leaders, religious leaders and journalists demonstration would take place on the same
currently imprisoned under the law. The UDJ date and in the same location against Muslim
says that in the last two months, members of the extremism. The UDJ and Blue party
party have been arrested in Mekele, Gondar, demonstrations are also protesting against the
Dessie, Walaita zone, Fiche town in North continued imprisonment of a number of political
Shewa, and Addis Ababa. 62 party members opposition party members and journalists,
were reported to have been detained in Addis imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom
Ababa in the last two weeks, after distributing of expression, in many cases in relation to
flyers. Most of those arrested were reportedly peaceful protest movements. Both parties are
released without charge after several days calling for the release of journalist Eskinder Nega
detention. However, several people reportedly and UDJ leaders Andualem Arage and Nathnael
remain in detention in various locations. One Mekonnen, who are serving lengthy prison
person is reported to have been detained sentences on terrorism charges after they
without charge for 12 days. A UDJ representative discussed at a public meeting whether the
told Amnesty International that organizers of Middle East and North Africa style uprisings
demonstrations and public meetings in Bahir could spread to Ethiopia. The parties are also
Dar, Arba Minch, Gondar and Walaita zone also calling for the release of journalists Reyot Alemu
experienced other forms of harassment by and Woubshet Taye, and opposition leader
government authorities, including the Zerihun Gebre-Egziabher, who are also serving
confiscation of loud-speakers, tearing down prison sentences under the Anti-Terrorism
posters, and a party member being expelled Proclamation for their alleged involvement with,
from his job due to his involvement in the and [journalistic] reporting on the Beka!
protests. The planned demonstration in Mekele (Enough) movement in 2011 that called for
and the public meeting in Walaita zone peaceful protests to take place. The UDJ is
reportedly had to be cancelled due to the particularly focusing its protests and petition on
extensive harassment faced by the party the misuse of the Anti-Terrorism Proclamation,
members. Protesting against protest-related which has been used in all of the above cases,
arrests Among the issues both the UDJ and Blue and calling for the amendment or abrogation of
parties are protesting about, is the government the proclamation. Amnesty International has
repression of the peaceful Muslim protest repeatedly expressed concern about the vague
movement, and the detention and prosecution provisions in the Anti-Terrorism Proclamation,
of key figures of the movement. For over 18 which continues to be used to prosecute and
months, large swathes of Ethiopias Muslim thereby silence dissenting and critical voices.
population have staged regular peaceful protests We Demand justice
against alleged government interference in Ahmed Fentea
Islamic Affairs. The protests have been met with TPLF recent declaration of war and an
repressive tactics including hundreds of arrests, act of terrorism perpetrated against the Amhara
the prosecution of the movements leaders on people in Gonder. The Agazi special TPLF killing
terrorism charges, and several incidents of squad, armed to its teeth have been killing,
alleged excessive use of police force which torturing, imprisoning, and dislocating the
resulted in the deaths of many protestors. Amhara people and the rest of Ethiopians from
their natural dwellings for the last 25 years. The

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Amhara and other Ethiopians have to do Following this event, the natives had
everything to stop this rapacious regime to live exerted many efforts to lodge their complaints
in peace, security and prosperity. and objection their demographic change and
We are torn by this great tragedy and requesting their national identity to be
join the world wide protest to express our respected as an Amhara. For that effort the
outrage and condemnation of this ferocious act people in the area had set up an 88 committee
driven by enmity against the Amhara people and members and send them to Addis Ababa more
their struggle for freedom and justice. We find it than eleven times. Nevertheless, some months
very disturbing that before any investigation of ago they were bared to enter the city 35 km
these crimes, the TPLF government continues to away for several days. Subsequently, the
use vindictive rhetoric of discord and distrust government started to fan through its media
directly on the Amhara especially on the outlets and characterized the legitimate
Wolkayit-Tsegede-Humera-Tselemit who defend committee setup as terrorist or has connection
their Amhara root and their natural with terrorism.
habituations. The Ethiopian government spokesperson
Historically, Wolkayit-Tsegede & Getachew Reda accused the committee
Humera-Tselemit were distinct regions of members of kidnapping, murder and being in
Northern Gonder since ancient times, in which it possession of arms with an intent of staging
was annexed by force into Tigray in 1991 in the terrorist attacks. Despite Ethiopian human right
form of subjugation. In all historical books, in all committee grim report publicizing that in 34
ancient maps, in tradition, culture and language, people were murdered 93 were abducted and
their psychological make up and norms of these many has been dislocated from their usual
people were never been part of Tigray. They domicile the area by the government and its
were always part and parcel of the Dembeya affiliated clusters.
together with quara, janamora, semen and the The repressive regime in Addis Ababa has
rest form North Gonder ethnically identified as not only condemned the committee (Amharas)
Amhara. as guilty as usually it does to other Ethiopians,
During TPLF armed insurgency the group such as the Oromos the Gambelias etc. who
used the above mentioned subjugated areas for had peacefully protested for their rights. It is
military strategy to make a corridor with its host now asserting that Wolkayit-Tsegede, Humera
the Sudan. It subdued the people and other and Tselemit Amharas have been collaborating
resistance movements in the area in its military with terrorism and labelled them as terrorists
might. So this TPLF might become a right now trained by its untrustworthy enemy and
after it toppled the military government in infiltrated from Eretria. It is clear that
grabbing the land and displace the people in the the regime in Ethiopia is trying to cripple the
area and start to relocate and settle its own peaceful legitimate protest of these Amharas
ethic groups Tigrians. Although the people in for their rights. This is a protest that has now
these areas had contributed significantly to peacefully gone on for more than thirty four
topple the military government, sadly TPLF had years and is opposed to the regimes gross and
managed to settle more than three hundred illegal mutilation and merge the Wolkayit
thousands of Tigre farmers in its first stage, and community and its land into the neighbouring
continued settling in these fertile lands of Tigray Regional State.
Wolkayit-Tsegede, Humera and Tselemit, and Finally, we demand the government
associated areas by replacing the native with the authorities who are perpetrators of this heinous
new comers from Tigre and consequently crime and those who gave an order of this
changed the demographic nature of the land. nature and cause a loss of life expeditiously as
possible so that responsible be brought to
justice.

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Detantion & Torture in Peacful government forces killed at least 100 people.
More than 1,000 protesters were arrested and
Protesters taken to Awash Arba military base, where they
Getnet Yoseph were beaten and forced to do strenuous exercise
Tens of thousands of protesters have in hot weather.
flooded the streets of Gonder in the Amhara The crackdown on human rights
region of northern Ethiopia on Sunday defenders, independent media, journalists,
demanding a change of government due to the
bloggers, peaceful protesters as well as
unfair distribution of wealth in the country. The members and leaders of the political opposition
protest, reported to have been staged in intensified during the year, often using
defiance of a government order, is also in provisions of the 2009 Anti-Terrorism
solidarity with the Oromia protests held Proclamation (ATP). The declaration of the state
between November last year to March 2016 in of emergency signalled further restrictions on
opposition to a government development plan in freedom of expression, including intermittent
the region which could affect poor farmers. blocking of the internet. Under the state of
Images posted by protesters and other emergency, more than 11,000 people were
eye witnesses on social media show hundreds of arrested and detained without access to a
thousands of people carrying Ethiopian flags and lawyer, their family or a judge. Among those
placards singing and chanting against the arbitrarily arrested were Befeqadu Hailu, a
governments regime. Prolonged protests over member of the Zone-9 blogging group; Merera
political, economic, social and cultural
Gudina, Chair of the Oromo Federalist Congress
grievances were met with excessive and lethal
(OFC); Anania Sorri and Daniel Shibeshi,
force by police. The crackdown on the political
members of the former Unity for Democracy and
opposition saw mass arbitrary arrests, torture Justice Party (Andinet); and Elias Gebru, a
and other ill-treatment, unfair trials and journalist. Four members of the national NGO,
violations of the rights to freedom of expression This time in July last year, anti-
and association. On 9 October, the government government protests in Gondar and Bahir Dar
announced a state of emergency, which led to
saw the death of hundreds of protesters at the
further human rights violations.
hands of security forces. In the city of Bahir Dar,
In response to sustained protests in
at least fifty people were killed in one day as
Oromia and Amhara regional states, the security forces shot indiscriminately at
authorities introduced reforms. However, these protesters. The protests in the Amhara region
failed to address the protesters grievances, came after a year of similar protests in the
including those relating to: economic, social and Oromo region againsts years of economic and
cultural rights; respect for the rule of law; and political marginalization that protesters blamed
the release of prisoners of conscience. In late on the kleptocracy of the regime. The protests in
July, people in Amhara region protested against the Amhara region was sparked when the people
the arbitrary arrest of members of the Wolqait of Wolkait, Tegede and Telemt confronted
Identity Amhara Self-Determination Committee authorities on the annexation of their land to
and demanded additional regional autonomy in the Tigray region. The people in Gondar say
accordance with the Constitution. After the state those areas were historically Amhara and were
of emergency was declared in October, protests
annexed by the ruling Tigrean elite for their
subsided but human rights violations increased. wealth in natural resources.
The security forces used excessive and
lethal force against protesters. By the end of the
year, the security forces had killed at least 800
people since the protests began in November
2015. On 6 and 7 August, for example, when an
open call to protest was made in Addis Ababa,

2009 . August 2017 Volume 3 Issue No.3


29
Environmental Issues The Ethiopian Affair

Impacts of Water Hyacinth and its surrounding areas. Papyrus, one of the
characteristic features of Lake Tana, grows along
Invasion on Lake Tana
the lake's shoreline. There are a few patches of
Asnake Demena
original forest vegetation that have been protected
Introduction by churches and monasteries in the area. These
remnant church forests are islands of biodiversity,
At an altitude of 1840 meters above sea
providing refuge for over 100 tree and plant
level, Lake Tana is the largest lake in Ethiopia, with
species, many of them indigenous and rare. These
a surface area of 3,673km2. Lake Tana is a shallow
sites are invaluable pools of genetic resources for
lake with a maximum depth of 14 meters, but the
example of wild coffee and field crop varieties. Lake
average depth is 8 meter. Around, 40 rivers and
streams flow into Lake Tana from its large Tanas global importance originates not only from
surrounding watershed area of about 15,000 km2. biodiversity perspective but from hydro-politics
The lake is one of Africa's most unique wetland point of view, being the source of the Blue Nile
ecosystems and the source of 50 percent of River.
Ethiopia's freshwater, located in the Amhara region Besides these, Lake Tana area has a unique
of north-western part of the Ethiopian Highland. cultural, historical and aesthetic value with
The unique wetland ecosystems around Lake Tana numerous monasteries and churches dating back to
has a high level of biological diversity and support the 13th century. Culturally, the lake is very
many endemic animal and plants species. important as it is home to many unique churches
According to a study conducted by NABU in and monasteries of the Ethiopian Orthodox
2012, Lake Tana is internationally recognized as an Tewahedo Church; some date back to the 13th
Important Bird Area (IBA). Its wetlands provide a century. These churches and monasteries contain
habitat for many endemic and migratory bird valuable treasures of the Ethiopian Christian faith.
species which depend on the area for feeding, In general, Lake Tana is a mystical place where time
and history run deep. For these reasons, the United
nesting and roosting. Due to its location at the horn
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
of Africa, the lake is an important stopover and
Organization (UNESCO) designated the Lake Tana
wintering site for many migratory birds on the
Biosphere Reserve in 2014. Given the scenarios
flyway between Europe, Asia and Africa. The
discussed above, this article explores
marshes and shallow areas of the lake are some of environmental and socioeconomic impacts of
the most important wintering areas for Central and Water Hyacinth invasion on Lake Tana. The article
Northern European migratory bird species. Rare also suggests ways to overcome the invasion of the
bird species such as the endemic Wattled Crane lake.
and Black-crowned Crane also use the wetlands Origin of Water Hyacinth
surrounding the lake. Vast undisturbed reedbeds It is widely reported that water hyacinth is
serve as breeding, feeding and roosting sites for indigenous to Brazil having been first described
these resident crane species and are essential for from wild plants collected from the Francisco River
their survival. in 1824 (Monsanto, 1996). On the African
Furthermore, Lake Tana is well known for continent, water hyacinth was first reported in
its unique concentration of endemic fish species Egypt in 1879; in South Africa in 1908; Zimbabwe in
due to the lake's isolation from other water bodies 1937; Sudan in 1957; Senegal in 1964; Nigeria in
separated by the Tis Abay falls. Approximately 70% 1983 and Uganda in 1987 (Makhanu, 1997). It is
of the 67 different fish species recorded in Lake now popularly believed that water hyacinth
Tana are endemic and the lake is home to the only entered Lake Tana in 2011. After being recognized
remaining intact flock of Barbus fish in the world. in September 2011, water hyacinth invaded 50
Hippopotamuses, and reptiles like the Nile percent of Lake Tana, despite the fact that the lake
Crocodile and Nile Monitor also populate the lake is important for the regions inhabitants through

2009 . August 2017 Volume 3 Issue No.3


30
The Ethiopian Affair

the supply of drinking water, power generation, substantial amount is spent on their control
fisheries and food security, transportation, and annually throughout the world. It is also a very
provision of other ecological goods and services. sturdy species. It cause blockage of irrigation
The Lake Tana basin supports a population of more channels affecting the flow of water to fields,
than 3 million people. The question is: how did making fishing difficult, and almost makes any
Water Hyacinth get to Lake Tana? And why did the place inhabitable and inaccessible. They may block
TPLF regime neglected the invasion of the lake with hydroelectric turbines causing enormous damage,
this dangerous weed? Answering these questions which are vital for economy and green
didnt require detail analysis: there are only two environment. They out-compete almost all other
species growing in their vicinity thereby decreasing
possibilities for Water Hyacinth to enter into Lake
biodiversity (Crafter et al. 1992). They destroy the
Tana, either by the TPLF regime itself or by the
beauty of a given place, and sometimes can be a
Egyptian government. Since it is part of the
breeding ground for disease causing insects and
biopolitics of water and Lake Tana is located in the pests. They also can accelerate the process of
so-called Amhara region, it is intentional for the evaporation from water bodies. They tend to
TPLF regime to neglect the infestation of the Lake absorb nutrients quickly thus making the
for the last 6 years. ecosystems less fertile.
Negative impacts of Water Hyacinth There is a great discrepancy among policy
Water Hyacinth is one of the most dangerous makers, environmental agencies and research
weeds on earth. It poses serious socioeconomic scientists on the way to control this invasive
and environmental problems for millions of people species and the practical benefits that can be
in riparian communities and is, therefore, an added obtained (Lu et al. 2008). There is a need for
constraint on development. It has a strong capacity sustainability and a new perspective when it comes
for propagation, especially in eutrophic water to managing this species and understanding and
bodies with plenty of nutrients, mainly nitrogen implementing their marketability as an ornamental
and phosphorus (Bricker et al., 1999). Water or in their alternative products or as a newly found
hyacinth takes between 6 and 28 days to double in biofuel crop. A recent study conducted by Goraw
weight, and between 4 and 58 days to double in and Shimelis (2017), revealed that while
number based on field measurements; and a mat researchers continue to investigate the perceived
of medium sized plants may contain 2 million potential uses of water hyacinth, the current
plants per hectare that weigh 270 to 400 tons negative impacts of the weed far outweigh its
(Epstein, 1998). This spontaneous propagation of benefits. The use of water hyacinth as raw material
water hyacinth can result in detrimental effects, in cottage industry should not encourage
including exhausting oxygen in water, interfering propagation of the weed, but rather help to control
with navigation, recreation, irrigation, and power its growth. Changing land use practices in the
generation, which in turn may have negative catchment communities through watershed
effects on the environment, human health and management will help to reduce agricultural runoff
economic development (Epstein, 1998). as a mechanism for controlling the proliferation of
The socio-economic effects of water water hyacinth. This is considered by many as one
hyacinth are dependent on the extent of the of the most sustainable long-term management
invasion, the uses of the impacted water body, actions. The key issue to be addressed is lowering
control methods and the response to control of the nutrient level in the water bodies. This is to
efforts. Ecosystem-level research programmes that say that appropriate standards must be observed
simultaneously monitor the effects of water for the dumping of both industrial and domestic
hyacinth on multiple trophic-levels are needed to wastes into receiving waters. The high level of
further our understanding of invasive species. sediments in the Inflow Rivers should also be
Water hyacinth is very difficult to eradicate by reduced by implementing a number of
physical, chemical, and biological means, and a sedimentation control measures such as proper

2009 . August 2017 Volume 3 Issue No.3


31
The Ethiopian Affair

farming methods and construction of sediment Lu et al. 2008, Performance of a water hyacinth
trap reservoirs. system in the treatment of wastewater from a
Summary duck farm and the effects of using water
hyacinth as duck feed
The Environmental and socio-economic
Monsanto, 1996. The Integrated Control &
impacts of water hyacinth are dependent on the Management of Water Hyacinth.
extent of the invasion, the uses of the impacted
water body, control methods and the response to Corruption in Ethiopia
control efforts. Ecosystem-level research Daniel Kassa (Maintal)
programmes that simultaneously monitor the High-level state corruption became
effects of water hyacinth on multiple trophic-levels prominent in Ethiopia. It is a hot issue in the coutry
are needed to further our understanding of that runs on state TV every day. Acoourding to
invasive species. It is clear from the foregoing that Amundsen (1999), corruption is a disease, a cancer
water hyacinth is one weed which man had better that eats into the cultural, political and economic
do away with. Three of the methods have been fabric of society, and destroys the functioning of
discussed and adopted in various regions in the vital organs. It takes many forms. It may be
world: mechanical, chemical and biological incidental (such bribes to junior public officials),
removal. systematic (affects whole areas of government and
In Ethiopia, mechanical removal has been harms revenue, trade and development).
tried by the local community. However, the Corruption jeopardy fundamental human rights,
ongoing and accelerating spread of weed the public services on which the poor depend are
infestation indicates that the region has been starved of funds and environmental protection
unable to control the invasion. As a result, 50 measures are flouted.
percent of the lake already invaded by this The corruption that infested the TPLF
notorious weed. Therefore, I strongly suggest that officials have significantly affect an entire economy
the need for launching Lake Tana Biosphere of the country through multiplier effects. It is
Initiative to assess the extent of the water-hyacinth negatively associated with developmental
problem across the region. The initiative should objectives. As a result, at least 37 million Ethiopians
have the following specific aims: continue to suffer under chronic poverty.Many
To identify the main bottlenecks impeding people in Ethiopia today are unable to afford basic
effective control of water hyacinth in Lake necessities like food due to the high prices.
Tana; Illiteracy is another area that shows the level of
To increase awareness of the spread and corruption. Corrupted TPLF official do not pay
negative socioeconomic impact of water- much attention to education. Ethiopia has a
hyacinth infestations in the region; and lliteracy rate of 49% with the female literacy rate
To stimulate the search for effective hovering around 41%. This implies only about 41%
mechanisms for water-hyacinth management of the total female population of Ethiopia above
in the region. age 15 can read and write which is very bad
compared to neighboring countries like Kenya.
Refrences:-
Bricker et al., 1999, National Estuarine Eutrophication Environmental issues such as water pollution , land
Assessment: Effects of Nutrient Enrichment in degradation which often leads to desertification,
the Nations Estuaries. poor climatic conditions (including severe
Crafter et al. 1992, Wetlands of Kenya: proceedings of droughts), etc. continue to threaten several lives in
the KWWG Seminar on Wetlands of Kenya Ethiopia today. In general, poor governance and
Epstein, 1998, Weeds bring disease to the east African corruption are major problems facing Ethiopia
waterways today. Unfortunately, Ethiopia's corrupt regime
G. Goshu and S. Aynalem, 2017, Problem Overview and the international community fail to
of the Lake Tana Basin
acknowledge the simple fact that Ethiopia is facing
K. S. Makhanu, 1997, Impact of water hyacinth on
Lake Victoria
a crisis of unprecedented magnitude.

2009 . August 2017 Volume 3 Issue No.3


32
Map of Lake Tana showing watershed, wetlands
and church forests (source: Heide, 2012).

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