ADDIS ABABA'S POORLY PLANNED DECENTRALIZATION AND #OROMOPROTESTS

by Abel D. Ayele OPride.com

The Oromo student protests in Ethiopia, which began last month in opposition to Addis Ababa’s controversial expansion, continued this week.

Tens of people have been killed while hundreds were wounded or jailed since the protests started in April. On May 14, locals said at least three people were killed and more than 100 wounded in Nekemte town, western Oromia where federal Special Forces have besieged the regional Wallaga University. Protests have spread to neighboring Najjo and other parts of Oromia on Thursday.

Ethiopia: Brutal Crackdown on Protests: Security Forces Fire On, Beat Students Protesting Plan to Expand Capital Boundaries

May 06, 2014 | Human Right Watch

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Ethiopia’s heavy handed reaction to the Oromo protests is the latest example of the government’s ruthless response to any criticism of its policies. UN member countries should tell Ethiopia that responding with excessive force against protesters is unacceptable and needs to stop.”

Leslie Lefkow, deputy Africa director

(Nairobi) – Ethiopian security forces should cease using excessive force against students peacefully protesting plans to extend the boundaries of the capital, Addis Ababa. The authorities should immediately release students and others arbitrarily arrested during the protests and investigate and hold accountable security officials who are responsible for abuses.

ADDIS ABABA'S MASTER PLAN, A PROJECT TO FURTHER MARGINALIZE OROMOS

By Bona Geshe

(OPride) — The Addis Ababa City Administration's plan to unconstitutionally expand the city’s territorial boundaries under the guise of development have sparked a growing protest around the country.

Over the last week and half, hundreds of Oromo students at all universities in Oromia expressed their opposition. While the protests have largely been nonviolent, local reports show that at least three students were injured in confrontations with police at Wollega University's Nekemte campus.

ETHIOPIA ROCKED BY OROMO STUDENT PROTESTS

(OPride) — At least a dozen protesters have been killed and many others wounded as students in Ethiopia's populous Oromia region clashed with military forces on Wednesday.

Student protests began earlier this month in response to plans by Addis Ababa City Administration which is expected to significantly expand the city's territorial jurisdiction.