Unrest in Oromia: Rising Defections, Civilian Casualties, and Alleged Human Rights Violations
Published June 12, 2025, 2:23 p.m. by FNN
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Oromia, two soldiers from the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) forces have defected to the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) on June 13, 2025. The defectors, believed to be of Oromo and other ethnic backgrounds, carried their full military gear, including AKM rifles and ammunition, marking a growing trend of defections across Oromia.
Continued Defections to OLA
The defectors joined the OLA units operating in the area, reflecting an increasing discontent with the PP-led regime, which they described as repressive and conspiratorial. The former PP soldiers expressed gratitude for the reception they received, describing the OLA as "a force fighting for justice and the dignity of all oppressed peoples." They urged other soldiers to leave the "barbaric and dictatorial camp" and join the growing armed resistance. As the insurgency gains ground and public support, reports continue to emerge of government troops being captured, wounded, or killed in clashes with OLA fighters. Observers note a rapid deterioration of morale within PP-aligned forces.
Rising Civilian Casualties in Wallo
In the North Oromia, Wallo zone, Harxumma Furse district, there have been reports of increasing civilian casualties. On June 9 and 10, 2025, Amhara militias launched an attack on the local population, resulting in several deaths and injuries. The victims, most of whom were from the Coqorso village, were reportedly targeted by the militias due to their Oromo ethnicity. Victims identified include Abdu Ahimed Datoo, Hasan Ahimed Ibraahim, Nuuru Ahimed, Aamma Hasan Maamud, and Nuuru Ahimed Alii. Each suffered multiple gunshot wounds, while many others remain unidentified. This incident has added to the growing tension and fear among the Oromo population.
Alleged Human Rights Violations in Horro Guduru Wallaga
In the Horroo Guduru Wallagga, Amuru district, there have been reports of human rights violations. On June 5, 2025, families of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) soldiers were reportedly arrested by forces loyal to the regime of with Minilik ideology and were subjected to torture. Two individuals, identified as Abbabu Marara and Darartu Getacho, were reportedly detained and subjected to inhumane treatment. On the same day, Babbe Bayyana and Dosa Tolera, who were identified as faamily members of the Oromo Liberation Army, were also reportedly arrested and subjected to torture. These incidents have sparked widespread condemnation among the Oromo community, with many calling for an immediate end to the violence and respect for human rights. The OLA maintains that it is fighting for the liberation and self-determination of the Oromo people against a regime it accuses of systemic violence, political marginalisation, and military occupation. As the conflict continues to intensify, the international community is urged to pay close attention to the evolving situation in Oromia.
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