Protests erupted in various cities of Oromia following the death of Hachalu Hundessa, an Oromo singer and activist, which led to the loss of over 150 lives, as reported by Ethiopia Observer quoting Girma Gelam, Oromia Deputy Police Commissioner.
Hachalu was killed on the night of June 29, 2020, by unknown individuals near his house. His fans interpreted the circumstances of his death as an assassination, resulting in angry protests in many towns across Oromia. These protests caused loss of life and property damage. Hachalu was a prominent figure in the Oromo protest movement, which had a significant impact on the federal government and led to administrative changes.
According to Addis Standard, on July 1, 2020, Ararsa Merdassa, Oromia Police Commission Commissioner, revealed that 81 people were killed in connection with the protests following the singer’s death. Among them were three police officers and 78 civilians, including Hachalu’s uncle who was allegedly killed by security forces in Ambo town. Additionally, seven civilians were killed in Addis Ababa.
In another report by Addis Standard, it was stated that at least seven people were killed in Adama, and two were killed in Chiro town. According to doctors from Adama hospital, five of the victims were shot and killed. A total of 75 people from Adama and 19 from Dhera were admitted to the hospital with injuries, most of them sustaining bullet wounds and some with burn injuries.
Multiple witnesses quoted in Ethiopia Observer’s report mentioned that during the protests, the demonstrators attacked non-ethnic Oromo individuals with sticks and metal rods. They also engaged in looting, vandalism, and destruction of businesses and properties in various towns, including Arsi Negele, Robe, Adaba, Asasa, Ziway, and others.
Shashemene was heavily impacted by the violence, with schools, businesses, and residential houses being set ablaze. The hotel owned by renowned athlete Haile Gebreselassie was among the properties destroyed. A resident told Ethiopia Observer that the rioters had burned down the entire town. Witnesses reported that properties belonging to ethnic Amharas and Guraghes were the primary targets. The rioting continued until the National Defense Forces took control of the situation.
According to Addis Maleda‘s reporting, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission confirmed that ethnic Amharas were specifically targeted in the violence following the death of artist Hachalu Hundessa. The regional authorities failed to protect civilians and were unprepared to respond to the crisis. In addition, Christians were also subjected to attacks.
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