Protests In Amhara Over Ethiopia Armed Forces' Reintegration
Federal government plans to integrate local defence forces into the police and national army have led to days of violent protests across Ethiopia's northern Amhara region. There were reports of several people being shot at during protests held on Tuesday April 11, 2023, which marked the sixth consecutive day of rallies against the government plans.
Residents in Dessie and Bahir Dar have told Deutsche Welle that Tuesday's unrest has largely receded. Independent Ethiopian analyst Alemnew Mekonnen said some major roads in Bahir Dar remained blocked.
Earlier, eyewitnesses said heavy fighting occurred between Ethiopian National Defense Force and members of Amhara regional forces in Debre Birhan city, approximately 120km north-east of Addis Ababa.
Some cities have also imposed curfew restrictions.
Aid agency Catholic Relief Services said it was "devastated" at the death of two staff members who were shot in the protests against the reintegration on Friday, April 7, 2023.
The Amhara region was also shaken by conflict with Oromia region in February 2023.
Public life came to a standstill during nearly a week of protests across Amhara state.