Ethiopia: Further protests possible in Oromia region through late February

Event

Student and other activist groups in Oromia State will likely continue their ongoing campaign of protests through at least late February. The purpose of the action is to demand the release of a number of jailed prominent ethnic Oromo political figures, some of whom have launched a hunger strike to protest the late January arrests of numerous supporters and family members.

Student protests initially broke out Feb. 5 in Ambo and Ethiopia's chartered city Dire Dawa, before spreading to other Oromia towns such as Nekemte, Waliso, Asabot, Shashamene, Gimbi, and Gedo by Feb. 8. At least one person was reportedly killed in Yebelo when police used force to disperse the protesting crowd there.

Major cities, including Adama, Hawassa, Shashamene, Dire Dawa, Nekemte, and Ambo, will have the highest potential for experiencing anti-government protests. However, demonstrations could also occur in other locations. Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture until the wave of protests abate; the use of live ammunition to disperse gatherings cannot be ruled out. Authorities may limit or block internet and telephone services to prevent protesters from organizing, in addition to deploying roadblocks and implementing other movement restrictions, such as curfews.

Context

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered the ethnic Oromo opposition leaders' arrest for an alleged plot to incite violent protests in Addis Ababa and the Oromia Region following the assassination of Oromo singer and activist Hachalu Hundessa in June 2020. Oromo youth activists, known locally as Querros, called for protests and a number of other disruptive actions, such as blocking major routes serving Addis Ababa, preventing goods deliveries, and disrupting utility services.

Advice

Monitor local media and liaise with trusted contacts for updates on protests, as organizers may not announce details in advance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Avoid all large public gatherings. Limit exposure to popular rally sites such as government buildings, religious sites, and public squares. If violence breaks out nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter in a safe location. Confirm business appointments, road status, and transport arrangements before attempting travel. Avoid travel at night. Allow additional time to reach destinations, especially in urban centers. Do not attempt to navigate any roadblocks, as protesters could attack vehicles.