26 February 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The human rights landscape in Ethiopia continues to face grave challenges, with reports of extrajudicial killings in the Amhara region raising serious concerns. Amnesty International, a renowned human rights organization, has stepped forward to condemn these acts and demand accountability from the responsible parties.
Amnesty’s report sheds light on documented instances of extrajudicial killings perpetrated by the Ethiopian Defense Forces (ENDF) within the Amhara region. The capital city, Bahir Dar, serves as a chilling example, with reports detailing the deaths of six civilians in August 2023. This disturbing trend continued into October, with another six individuals losing their lives in Sebatamit under similar circumstances.
The report further highlights the added pain inflicted upon the bereaved families, who were reportedly denied the right to bury their loved ones with dignity. These acts not only violate fundamental human rights but also potentially constitute war crimes under international law, according to Amnesty.
In response to these alarming violations, Amnesty has issued a series of demands. They call for the immediate cessation of extrajudicial killings by the ENDF and the initiation of an independent investigation into these occurrences. Additionally, they urge the Ethiopian authorities to hold those responsible accountable through legal proceedings that adhere to international standards.
However, the organization acknowledges the significant challenges in obtaining reliable information due to communication disruptions and the fear of reprisals prevalent in the region. This lack of transparency further underscores the urgency of addressing the underlying issues and establishing a culture of accountability.
Amnesty also emphasizes the need for increased local and international attention towards the human rights situation in Ethiopia. They advocate for the immediate intervention of the United Nations Human Rights Council to undertake comprehensive monitoring efforts and ensure the protection of fundamental rights for all Ethiopian citizens.
The current situation in the Amhara region, characterized by reports of extrajudicial killings and the violation of basic human rights, demands immediate and decisive action. Amnesty International’s call to action serves as a stark reminder of the need for transparency, accountability, and respect for human dignity in Ethiopia. As international scrutiny intensifies, it remains to be seen whether the Ethiopian government will take concrete steps to address these alarming concerns.
