ADDIS ABABA (EVN) August 18 — The Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church has issued a plea for peace amidst the ongoing conflict between the Fano militia and Ethiopian federal government forces. The conflict escalated after Fano militia recently seized key cities and towns, including Gondar and Lalibela, two weeks ago.
His Holiness Abune Mathias issued an impassioned message, imploring all involved parties to halt the cycle of violence and seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict. “Let there be peace! Let the shedding of human blood stop! And let the land rest!” he implored in a press release issued today.
The intensifying hostilities between the Fano militia and federal forces have raised significant concerns not only within Ethiopia but also on the volatile Horn of Africa region. The seizure of strategic locations by the Fano militia has added more urgency to an already precarious situation, sparking fears of further violence and instability across the region.
The words of the Patriarch resonate with the guiding principles of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church, which has historically championed unity and stability within the nation. His Holiness emphasized the critical nature of resolving the current crisis through peaceful dialogue and called upon all factions to relinquish their arms in pursuit of the greater well-being of the nation.
The capture of the historic cities of Gondar and Lalibela by the Fano militia has propelled the conflict into the forefront of national and international attention. The appeal for peace from His Holiness Abune Mathias underscores the need for cessation of hostilities and a collective commitment to forging a peaceful resolution to the ongoing strife.
The Amhara region has already endured significant devastation due to the incursion of the TPLF during the Tigray war. This incursion resulted in widespread destruction of property and infrastructure, as well as millions of people. The situation led to crimes against humanity, including mass rapes and killings.
