Tensions between the Ethiopian Federal Government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) escalated in November of 2020. This ongoing conflict between the 2 parties has resulted in thousands of deaths and 1.7 million displaced civilians. TPLF and the Ethiopian Federal Government, led by Prime Minister Mr Abiy, have been accused of ethnic cleansing, massacres, and sexual violences.
Ethnic Groups in Ethiopia
Ethiopia has a diverse population consisting of over 80 ethnic groups.
The Oromo are Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group, followed by the Amharas. The Tigrayans are a small ethnic group, accounting for only 7.3% of the population. Despite their size, Tigrayans and the Tigray region are important in the ongoing conflicts in Ethiopia.
Mai Kadra Massacre
The Mai Kadra Massacre occurred a few days after the TPLF and Ethiopian Federal Government clashed.
On November 9th, the Samri, a local kebele (ward) who supported the TPLF, went door to door, killing those they identified as part of the Amhara ethnic group. At least 600 innocent civilians were beaten, stabbed, strangled and hacked to death with machetes and sticks in the town of Mai Kadra. The death toll may increase as there were many bodies missing or hidden in fields outside of town.
Prime Minister Abiy and Ethnic Cleansing
Recently, Prime Minister Abiy has been accused of allying with the Amhara region and Eritrean soldiers to wipe out the Tigrayans. This leaves the Tigray region trapped between Eritrea and the Amhara region, and harder for civilians to flee.
For months, the people of Tigray have been denied access to electricity and telecommunications, leaving little hope for their stories to be heard. Although Ethiopia claims that life is returning back to normal, survivors/ refugees state that killings, often of multiple people, rape, looting, burning of crops are still occurring.
Why Should You Care?
Innocent civilians including women, children, and the elderly are being caught up in a political conflict they have no part in. Hunger and poverty is prevalent in Ethiopia and the situation will only worsen the conditions.
Moreover, Prime Minister Abiy currently holds a Nobel Peace Prize for his previous efforts when he was elected, but how can he still hold the award when violence is arising from his decisions?
It is important that both political parties face the consequences for the atrocities they have directed and assume a middle ground that does not cause harm.
How Can You Help?
Regardless of their ethnicity, Ethiopia is facing famine and displacement because of the political dispute. You can help by:
Raising awareness, educate yourself and others
Donate to:
Sign these petitions which urge for more action and to revoke Prime Minister Abiy’s Nobel Peace Prize award:
Sources:
Amnesty International
The Washington Post
New York Times
Al Jazeera
Associated Press
DoctorsWithoutBorders
Written by JoYii Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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