31 Oct 2019 | 01:05 PM UTC
Ethiopia: Protest reported in Ambo (Oromia) October 31 /update 5
Protest in Ambo amid visit of Prime Minister October 31; further protests possible across the country
Event
Residents in Ambo (Oromia region) protested on the morning (local time) of Thursday, October 31, due to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's visit in the area. Protesters were reportedly chanting anti-Abyi slogans at the Prime Minister while he was attending community discussions regarding recent violence in Oromia.
A heightened security presence was reported in the area. Additional demonstrations are possible across the country over the coming days. Disruptions to transportation and businesses are to be anticipated near demonstration sites.
Context
The Oromia regional police commissioner announced on October 25, that the death toll had reached 67 in two days of protests in the Oromia region, including 62 protesters and five police officers. Protests seek to denounce Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed following reports that police surrounded Oromo activist Jawar Mohammed's home in Addis Ababa and attempted to withdraw his security detail.
Advice
Individuals in Ethiopia, and particularly those in Addis Ababa, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to potential violence, anticipate heightened security measures and disruptions to transportation and business near large public gatherings, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
