Dejen Media (August 2)–Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice (ECSJ) issued a statement on Monday expressing deep concern over the escalating unrest in Ethiopia, particularly in the Amhara region. The organization emphasized the need for reflection and urgent action to address the current challenges facing the country.
The statement highlighted the vital role of the Ethiopian defense army, describing its commitment to protecting the motherland and its people. The defense army has been actively engaged in peacekeeping and national survival efforts across the country. It has made significant sacrifices to combat armed groups operating under various ethnic identities and has remained dedicated to the well-being of the nation.
ECSJ pointed out that the Ethiopian Defense Forces are currently facing two major challenges. Firstly, government officials’ negligence and internal conflicts within the ruling party have negatively impacted the army’s effectiveness. There are concerns about the military being exploited for political purposes instead of fulfilling its institutional and professional responsibilities.
The party also raised alarm over the presence of militant groups organized along caste lines, exacerbating the security situation. The failure to swiftly respond to security threats and the mishandling of information dissemination have hindered the defense forces’ efforts, leading to unnecessary sacrifices.
The statement criticized the inconsistency in implementing the government’s decision to halt the operation of regional special forces, leaving the Ethiopian Defense Forces vulnerable to further attacks. The organization cited government incompetence, lack of clear policies, and internal conflicts as contributing factors to the current unrest.
In recent months, the Amhara region has witnessed an escalation of tensions, with extreme political rhetoric targeting the National Defense Forses. Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice expressed concern that such hostile narratives could escalate the situation further, posing risks to regional stability and national unity.
The party called on the government to take immediate action to address these challenges, prioritize national security, and ensure the Ethiopian Defense Forces can effectively fulfill its mandate without undue political interference. It emphasized the importance of a cohesive and coordinated approach to tackle the root causes of the unrest and promote lasting peace in the region and across Ethiopia.
As the situation unfolds, both national and international observers are closely monitoring developments in Ethiopia, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the current crisis.
