(A4O, Press Release 12 March 2019) Advocacy for Oromia, a non-profit advocacy organisation working to ensure that the Oromo people’s rights and wishes are respected, is highly concerned at the intimidation, the violence and the wave of arrests that have taken place during the week end in Oromia.

Advocacy for Oromia understands the security concerns of the regional and the Federal Government and the steps taken to protect the people who live in the country. The Ethiopian military established a buffer zone in Western Oromia (four zones of Wollega) and Southern Oromia (Borana, Goji Zones) and deployed huge number of military forces in Oromia.

Over the last three months, more than 200 Oromo people have reportedly been detained in Xoolay and Sanqallee detention camps. Furthermore, the door to door operation has involved breaking the houses and beating them up cold-heartedly and treating them in heartless manner and robbing their properties. However, none of the government bodies have initiated any inquiry into the matter which continues to violate human rights.

For detail information: Press Letter 12 March 2019