Oromo Diaspora in London Protests Ethiopian Government, Demands Justice and Freedom

Demonstrators gathered on 30 March 2026 to condemn civilian killings, political repression, and human rights abuses in Oromia

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM — On 30 March 2026, members of the Oromo diaspora and their supporters took to the streets of London to protest against the Ethiopian government, condemning the ongoing killings of civilians in various regions of Oromia.

The demonstration, which drew participants from across the UK, was marked by powerful chants and placards demanding justice, freedom, and accountability. Organisers described the protest as part of a sustained global campaign to draw attention to the plight of the Oromo people under the current administration.

The Demands: A Call for Justice

The protesters chanted a series of slogans that reflected their demands for political reform, human rights, and an end to violence. Among the key messages were:

  1. Free all political prisoners in Ethiopia — A call for the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals detained for their political beliefs or activities.
  2. Ethiopia’s Prime Minister is a war criminal! — A direct accusation against Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, holding him personally responsible for atrocities committed during the conflict.
  3. Oromia shall be free — A declaration of the protesters’ belief in the right to self-determination for the Oromo people.
  4. Oromia is not for sale — A rejection of any attempts to appropriate or commodify Oromo land and resources.
  5. Oromia is a country — An assertion of Oromo national identity and the right to statehood.
  6. Finfinnee belongs to Oromo and Oromia — A demand for the recognition of Addis Ababa (Finfinnee) as part of Oromia, disputing its status as a separate federal entity.
  7. Fano is a terrorist group — A denunciation of the Fano militia, accused by protesters of committing atrocities against Oromo civilians.
  8. Fano out of Oromia — A demand for the withdrawal of Fano forces from Oromo territories.
  9. Justice for Bette Urgessa — A call for accountability in the case of Bette Urgessa, an Oromo activist whose death has become a symbol of state repression.
  10. Justice for Haacaaluu Hundeessaa — A demand for justice for the murdered Oromo singer and activist, whose assassination in 2020 sparked widespread protests across Ethiopia.

A Global Movement

Organisers emphasised that the London protest is part of an ongoing global campaign by the Oromo diaspora. Demonstrations have been held in cities across Europe, North America, Australia, and Africa, with activists calling for international intervention to address the crisis in Oromia.

The protesters submitted a formal petition to the UK Foreign Office, urging the British government to take a stronger stance against the Ethiopian government and to support efforts to end the violence and human rights abuses in Oromia.

An Unbroken Determination

The London protest of 30 March 2026 was not an isolated event. It was part of a sustained movement that continues to grow, driven by the Oromo diaspora’s determination to see justice done and a free and democratic Oromia established.

As the organisers declared: “Hiriirri kun biyyoota addunyaa guutuu irratti itti fufuudha qaba” — This struggle continues across all countries of the world.

The Oromo diaspora in London and beyond remains committed to the struggle for justice, freedom, and human rights for the Oromo people.