Ethiopian Church Says Attacks Killed at Least 60 Worshippers

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church says two attacks in Oromia’s Arsi Zone killed at least 60 worshippers, as the church called on authorities to protect civilians and prosecute those responsible. In a statement issued October 26, the church’s Holy Synod said 14 people were killed in Merti district on October 20 and another 46 in Shirka district on October 24. The church also reported that more than 20 people were seriously injured and 20 homes were burned. The figures come from the Synod’s account; the attacks and casualty totals have not been independently verified in the reporting. Responsibility for the killings remains disputed. Oromia regional government spokesperson Hailu Adugna blamed the Oromo Liberation Army and allied groups, alleging they sought to provoke ethnic and religious conflict. He provided no evidence for the accusation in his reported statement. A source linked to the rebel alliance, in turn, accused the regional government of carrying out the killings, citing conversations with two local residents. That allegation has not been independently verified. The Oromo Liberation Army did not immediately respond to a request for comment, according to one...