The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) disclosed that deaths and physical injuries occurred as a result of attacks against the protestors held in Amhara Region following the government’s decision to dissolve the Special Force of the Region.
The Commission on Thursday said that the security forces took the measures; and unidentified people have perpetrated attacks.
EHRC said this in the statement it issued today, 12 April 2023, announcing that the reorganization of the Regional Special Force should be accomplished in such a way that it does not violate people’s human rights.
The Commission said that it has kept an eye regarding the protests that erupted in various parts of Amhara Regional State in connection with the government’s decision to implement the restructuring moves against the Amhara Special Force.
EHRC further indicated in its statement that its surveillance covers the disruption of peace, attacks and injuries perpetrated in some areas of the region.
The Commission also said that there were protests, road closures, service interruptions and clashes with the Defense Force in Kobo, Bahir Dar, Wereta, Kombolcha, Debrebirhan and Marawi towns of Amhara Regional State.
Protesters fear that the government’s decision would leave them exposed to attacks by neighboring regions.
Ethiopia’s regional states have their own special forces to protect their borders, and to fight rebels.
The government announced last week that it wants the Special Forces to be integrated into the federal army or police force in order to promote national unity.
The protest has led to a partial curfew being imposed in the historic city of Gondar, while clashes have been reported between protesters and the military in Kobe town of the region.
MG/abj/APA