The two Amanuels

By Tullu Liban

Amanuel Wondimu of Dembidollo and Amanuel Ephrem of Boji Birmeji are executed in the same fashion by government forces. What a horror!

We have witnessed quite a number disturbing of slaughters over the last few years. When such free and barbaric killings are conducted by savage elements words fail you to express your utmost anger, grief and frustration. Such is a moment when you give up on your country and any of its functionary apparatuses. Such is a moment when you are forced to condemn the horrible acts in all possible terms.

What is this insanity? Is there a moral ground for the Ethiopian security forces to claim they are enforcing law and order? Is an extra judicary killing of such type a reward for blood thirsty beasts in human image and clothing? Does this kind of violence grant legitimacy to the regime? Can it stop resented citizens from protesting the suppression they are doomed to? Is brutal killing of the youth before their parents in the open a solution to the crisis the regime is indulged in? Is it how the Ethiopian security forces are trained to discharge their responsibilities?

Just a challenge. Can the Ethiopian parliament speak up to the commander-in-chief of the armed forces to get explanation about the legal framework, if any, that granted unlimited power and unaccountability leverage for free killing? How does he communicate with the security forces he is heading from top of the helmet?