Escalating Human Rights Crisis in Oromia: Abductions, Detentions and Disappearances Amid Rising Conflict
Published Aug. 13, 2025, 9 p.m. by FNN
Mounting Concerns Over Prosperity Party's Tactics as Civilians Bear the Brunt of the Ongoing Conflict with the Oromo Liberation Army
On August 13, 2025, in the district of Lata Sibu in Western Wallaga, there were reports of severe human rights violations allegedly perpetrated by the Prosperity Party (PP) forces, according to local sources. This incident, involving the killing and arbitrary detention of local residents, has sparked international concern among human rights advocates.
Violence in Lata Sibu and Wara-Jirru
The victims of this incident were identified as Bal'inaa Saaqqataa, a 30-year-old resident of the Amuumaa Goorgisii village, and two brothers, Waaqtolaa Gaaromaa and Baarii Gaaromaa. Bal'inaa was reportedly shot and killed by PP forces during an interrogation in his home, while the Gaaromaa brothers were taken from their mother's home by the same forces and their current whereabouts remain unknown. Earlier on the same day, reports highlighted the deployment of government forces in the town of Wara-Jirru, indicating a possible escalation of the ongoing conflict between the PP and the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA). The heightened military presence has raised concerns among locals about potential clashes and further human rights violations.
Abduction of Prominent Oromo Elder
In a separate incident in the Saden Soddo district of Southwest Shagar zone, Tufa Farajo, a respected Oromo elder known for his peacebuilding efforts, was reportedly abducted by government forces on August 6, 2025. Farajo, who was seized from his farmland, had no known affiliations with any political activities or armed movements. His family's efforts to locate him have been met with silence from the authorities.
Young Oromo Man Vanishes From Prison Cell
In yet another disturbing development from Alge Sachi, Ilu Aba Bora, a young man named Kafe Jorgi disappeared from his prison cell. Jorgi had been detained by security forces loyal to the Prosperity Party under accusations of supporting the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA). His current whereabouts remain unknown, leading to fears of extrajudicial execution or enforced disappearance. According to local sources, Kafe Jorgi had been subjected to prolonged torture while in detention. These sources stated that there was no evidence linking Jorgi to any political or armed group. His disappearance has ignited renewed calls for international intervention and independent investigations into the conduct of Ethiopian security forces.
State Violence and Human Rights Violations
The Prosperity Party’s military and security apparatus has been widely accused of using arbitrary arrests and torture to silence dissent and suppress Oromo identity. Disappearances, mass detentions, and torture are increasingly common, particularly in districts where federal forces suspect sympathy for the OLA.
International Intervention Urged
The international community, human rights organizations, and Oromo civil society organizations are closely monitoring the situation. They are calling for a thorough investigation into these incidents and an end to such atrocities. The escalating tensions and ongoing conflict with the Oromo Liberation Army continue to pose significant challenges to the stability and security of the region. The international community is urged to pay close attention to the unfolding events and take necessary steps to prevent further escalation of violence and human rights abuses.
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