Solidarity Beyond Borders: Oromo Community’s Call for Unity
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Melbourne’s Oromo Community Stands in Solidarity with Jewish Australians After Bondi Attack
MELBOURNE, VIC โ 19 December 2025 โ The Oromo Community in Melbourne has issued a powerful statement of solidarity and support for the Australian Jewish community following the horrific antisemitic terror attack on peaceful Chanukah celebrations in Bondi.
The statement expresses the communityโs profound grief and unwavering support for the victims, their families, and all those impacted by the tragedy. “Our deepest condolences, sympathy, and love are with the bereaved families, the injured victims, the courageous first responders, and all members of the Jewish and wider Bondi community impacted by this tragedy,” the statement reads.
In a show of national unity, the Oromo community announced it has joined over 200 civil society organisations across Australia in signing a collective statement against hate, representing millions of Australians.
A Call for Unity and Safety
The community’s Chairperson, Mr. Alemayehu Kube, emphasized the shared values of peace and safety. โLove is what fortifies a community, while violence and hatred only destroy,โ said Mr. Kube. โThere is no place for hatred and violence in any form. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Jewish community, who have an absolute right to feel safe and be safe in our shared country.โ
The statement explicitly frames the attack as an assault on the nation’s core principles, calling it โan affront to the tolerance and inclusion that define our national character.โ It asserts that the right to safety is universal and โcannot depend on identity, origin, cultural background, age, or gender.โ
A Commitment to Action and Reflection
Beyond words of support, the Oromo community has committed to tangible action, stating it is โcommitted to deep reflection and meaningful actionโ in the face of such evil. The statement highlights the long-term trauma of such events, especially for children and families, and calls for a collective national response.
โIn this difficult moment, we call on all Australians to come together as one united people,โ the statement urges. โOur strength has always resided in our diversityโin people of all faiths and cultures, from over 236 backgrounds, standing side by side in empathy and mutual respect.โ
The message concludes with a hopeful vision, advocating for a response of compassion over fear and unity over division. โMay we support one another, honour those who have been impacted, and continue building an Australia where every person feels safe, valued, and supportedโin both body and mind.โ
The full statement from the Oromo Community in Melbourne is available for review.
About the Oromo Community in Melbourne: The Oromo Community in Melbourne represents members of the Oromo diaspora in Victoria, fostering cultural preservation, community support, and active civic engagement within Australia’s multicultural society.
The Case for Dual Citizenship in Ethiopia
In our increasingly interconnected world, the Ethiopian diaspora represents a vast reservoir of talent, capital, and cultural richness. To fully harness this potential, the Ethiopian government should formally recognize dual citizenship. This policy shift is a strategic imperative for national development, moving beyond outdated notions of exclusive allegiance to embrace a more inclusive and pragmatic vision of Ethiopian identity.
The current denial of dual citizenship creates an artificial and counterproductive divide. It forces a choice between a new life abroad and a fundamental connection to their homeland, stifling the very contributions the nation needs. The benefits of reform are clear and compelling:
- Economic Growth:ย Dual citizenship would unlock significant investment. By granting diaspora Ethiopians the full rights and security of citizenship, they would be empowered to invest more confidently in businesses, real estate, and the stock market, directly fueling entrepreneurship and economic growth.
- Knowledge and Cultural Exchange:ย This policy would fortify the bonds of culture and knowledge. It facilitates the seamless flow of ideas, skills, and heritage, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their roots and actively engaged in Ethiopia’s cultural and intellectual landscape.
- Political Engagement and Unity:ย Granting dual citizenship integrates the diaspora into the nation’s democratic fabric. It provides a formal voice in Ethiopiaโs future, transforming alienation into engagement and fostering a stronger, more unified global Ethiopian community.
- Global Competitiveness:ย Ethiopia is currently an outlier. Many nations across Africa and the world actively leverage dual citizenship to engage their diaspora. To compete for global talent and investment, Ethiopia must modernize its citizenship laws and join this progressive trend.
Ultimately, accepting dual citizenship is more than a legal updateโit is a profound commitment to inclusivity and progress. It is a recognition that the strength of a nation lies not only within its borders but also in the hands of its global citizens. By embracing its diaspora, Ethiopia can unlock a new chapter of development, unity, and shared prosperity.
Remembering Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo: A Legacy of Oromo Advocacy
A Message of Condolence from the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) on the Passing of Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo
The Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) expresses its profound grief and sorrow upon learning of the passing of the esteemed Oromo scholar, historian, and human rights advocate, Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo.
Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo was born and raised in Nageellee Arsi, West Arsi Zone, in the southeastern region of Oromia.
From his youth, Professor Hamdeessaa was a witness to the oppression and resistance of the Oromo people under successive Ethiopian imperial regimes. His personal history reveals that he grew up amidst the struggles of his people, developing from an early age into a resolute individual who refused to be a tool of the enemy’s oppression.
After completing his primary and secondary education, Professor Hamdeessaa pursued advanced studies abroad. He earned a B.A. in History from Avondale College, Australia (1972), an M.A. in Conflict Resolution from Andrews University, USA (1974), and a Ph.D. in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding from Michigan State University, USA (1981). His doctoral research focused on conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the role of Oromo cultural traditions.
Leveraging his academic expertise, he conducted various research projects and served as the Director of International Student Services and Oromo Cultural Affairs at George Mason University (1982โ1990), where he engaged deeply with the Oromo diaspora.
His distinguished academic career also included positions as a Professor in the Department of Conflict Resolution at Nova Southeastern University (1998โ2004), the Esau Distinguished Visiting Professor of Conflict Resolution at Menno Simons College, University of Winnipeg (2006โ2007), and a Professor in the Department of Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Manitoba (2011โ2019).
Among his numerous scholarly publications is the work Creating The Third Force: Indigenous Processes of Peacemaking, which presents the Oromo Gadaa system as a model for other nations.
Professor Hamdeessaa also played a significant role in the Oromo liberation struggle. He collaborated with Oromo activists, both living and deceasedโsuch as Luba Guddinaa Tumsaa, Jaal Baaroo Tumsaa, Professor Muhaammad Hasan, Professor Asaffaa Jaallataa, and othersโon matters concerning Oromummaa (Oromo national identity).
Furthermore, he initiated the “Shanachaa Jaarsummaa” (Elders’ Mediation) process (2001โ2004) in a long-standing effort to resolve political conflicts within the Oromo liberation movement.
His contributions extended to international advocacy, including his involvement in the “Immigration and Refugee Forum” during the 1980s, which helped secure refugee status for Oromos in the USA, and his participation in the London Peace Conference (1991) aimed at transforming Ethiopia’s political system.
He was also instrumental in founding the Oromo Studies Association (OSA), through which he promoted extensive research and scholarship.
Moreover, as a professor to countless university students, he planted the seeds of peace, human rights, and social change, inspiring many to become advocates and achievers in these fields.
Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo was an Oromo intellectual born into the Oromo struggle, who matured within it, and strived tirelessly to see the fruits of Oromo liberation. He passed away on November 22, 2025, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
The Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) shares in this irreplaceable loss and extends its deepest condolences to his family, relatives, and the entire Oromo nation, wishing them patience and strength.
A fighter falls, but the struggle continues!
Victory to the Masses!
Oromo Liberation Front (OLF)
November 23, 2025
Finfinnee
Oromo Studies Association Remembers Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo
Oromo Studies Association (OSA) Mourns the Passing of Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo
The Oromo Studies Association (OSA) has expressed its profound sorrow upon the passing of the esteemed scholar and activist, Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo.
In an official statement, OSA remembered Professor Hamdeessaa not only as a brilliant Oromo intellectual but also as a founding member who played an indispensable role in the establishment of the association. The statement emphasized that his contributions to the fields of Oromo scholarship and the global academic community were truly immeasurable.
The association highlighted his pivotal leadership from the very beginning, noting that he served as its first president and laid a strong foundation for the organization. This was at a critical time in 1986 when Oromo history, knowledge, and culture were under significant pressure. Professor Hamdeessaa provided crucial leadership and made immense contributions to building a robust institution dedicated to critical inquiry, intellectual empowerment, and collective advancement.
OSA’s statement further detailed the professor’s lifelong dedication. Born and raised in Oromia, he waged a long and steadfast struggle for the rights, dignity, and freedom of the oppressed Oromo people.
His commitment to the Oromo cause was evident early on; while in secondary school, he began his activism in human rights, demonstrating an unwavering sense of justice and a spirit of self-sacrifice for the goals of his people. These early experiences set the tone for a life dedicated to scholarship, mentorship, and public service.
After earning his Ph.D. from Michigan State University in 1981, Professor Hamdeessaa held significant academic positions at numerous prestigious institutions, including George Mason University, Antioch University, Nova Southeastern University, Menno Simons College, and the University of Manitoba.
His scholarly work was robust, focusing on critical areas such as peace and conflict, indigenous peacemaking, African oral traditions, and the politics of the Horn of Africa.
Beyond the academy, OSA noted, Professor Hamdeessaa Tusoo also played a major role in community service and empowerment, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the classroom.
Oromia Support Group Details Human Rights Abuses in Ethiopia
Oromia Support Group Report Details Widespread Human Rights Abuses in Ethiopia
November 21, 2025ย โ The Oromia Support Group (OSG), an organization advocating for human rights, has released a damning 70-page report alleging systematic and widespread human rights violations across Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa.
The report, released on November 20, 2025, documents a severe crisis in Ethiopia, citing extensive human rights abuses, extrajudicial killings, the suppression of public dissent, and the widespread intimidation of civil society leaders.
The OSG’s findings echo concerns previously raised by international bodies. On September 9, 2025, during its 60th session, the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) expressed alarm over the human rights situation in Ethiopia, noting that rights to free expression, assembly, and political party association have been severely curtailed.
The OSG further highlighted significant concerns regarding the environment for the country’s upcoming 7th national election, scheduled for 2026, stating that civil society organizations and journalists are operating in a climate of intense fear and repression.
According to the OSG, a significant portion of the human rights violations in Ethiopia are perpetrated by state security forces and affiliated militias. The report details that the recurring inter-ethnic conflicts in Oromia, Amhara, and the post-conflict Tigray regions continue to inflict severe harm on civilian populations.
The group’s documentation provides a grim snapshot of Oromia, alleging that summary executions, arbitrary detentions, and property seizures by government forces are commonplace.
The OSG report specifically names numerous locations where these alleged killings have occurred, including major urban centers such as:
- Finfinnee (Addis Ababa)
- Shaggar
- Adaama
The list also encompasses a wide range of zones and regions across Oromia, such as:
- Shaawa:ย East, West, South-West, and Central Shaawa
- Arsi:ย West Arsi and East Arsi
- Hararge:ย East and West Hararge
- Wallagga:ย East, West, Qellam, and Horro Guduru Wallagga
- Gujii:ย East and West Guji
- Boorana
- Bunnoo Badallee
- Jimma
- Iluu Abbaa Booraa
This extensive list underscores the report’s central claim that human rights abuses are not isolated incidents but are pervasive throughout the Oromia region.
Remembering Obbo Dootii Turaa: A Legacy of Oromo Leadership
The Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) has announced the passing of the esteemed Oromo freedom fighter and elder, Obbo Dootii Turaa, expressing its profound sorrow at this great loss.
In an official statement, the OLF conveyed that the death of Obbo Dootii Turaa has left them with a sense of deep and immense grief.
Obbo Dootii was born in 1925 in Nageellee Arsi, Arsi West Zone, in the Southeastern part of Oromia. From a young age, he was deeply conscious of his identity. After completing his elementary education, he became a teacher in his home region, serving in Goobee town and later in Maqii, in East Shewa. In this role, he was dedicated to educating his people on various subjects, ensuring they knew their culture and identity, and teaching them about the realities of living under a foreign colonial system.
After moving to Finfinnee (Addis Ababa), he continued his education and, during the reign of Haile Selassie, ventured into business. He built a family home and a business enterprise, and he strategically used the wealth he accumulated to openly support the Oromo struggle for liberation.
He actively participated in the resistance against the feudal regime, taking part in the 1960s student movements and the initial organized resistance. He also supported the Macca and Tuulama Self-Help Association, contributing his professional skills and financial resources in a significant and visible manner.
Furthermore, during a time when few were dedicating themselves to the cause, Obbo Dootii transformed his business into a meeting place for freedom fighters and his family home into a safe house for them. He also provided material support to the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA).
Through his overt and covert work, he collaborated with members and supporters of the OLF, such as the late Luba Guddinaa Tumsaa, Baaroo Tumsaa, Muhee Abdoo, and former OLF High Council member Magarsaa Barii. He was subsequently accused by the oppressive regime of the time and imprisoned for ten years alongside Luba Guddinaa Tumsaa.
Throughout successive Ethiopian regimesโthe Haile Selassie monarchy, the Derg, and the TPLF/EPRDFโObbo Dootii Turaa was repeatedly imprisoned and severely persecuted.
Under the particularly brutal repression of the EPRDF/TPLF/OPDO regime, he was forced into exile, ultimately living as a refugee in the United States.
Obbo Dootii Turaa was a wise Oromo elder, a visionary leader, and a respected authority on Oromo affairs and identity. He remained unwavering in his commitment to Oromo freedom until his final days. He passed away on November 18, 2025, in the United States, at an advanced age after a period of illness.
Remembering Obbo Dootii Turaa: Oromo Freedom Fighter
Condolence Statement
On the Passing of Oromo Freedom Fighter and Elder, Obbo Dootii Turaa (1925-2025)
Oromo Liberation Front (OLF)
The Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) expresses its profound and deepest sorrow at the passing of the esteemed Oromo freedom fighter and elder, Obbo Dootii Turaa.
Obbo Dootii was born in 1925 in Nageellee Arsi, Arsi West Zone, in Southeastern Oromia. From a young age, he was deeply conscious of his identity. After completing his elementary education, he became a teacher in his home region, first in Goobee and later in Maqii, in North Shewa. In this role, he was dedicated to educating his people about their culture and history, teaching them about Oromo identity and the realities of living under a colonial system.
After moving to Finfinnee (Addis Ababa), he pursued business during the reign of Haile Selassie. He strategically used the wealth he accumulated to openly support the Oromo struggle for liberation.
He actively participated in the resistance against the feudal regime, taking part in the 1960s student movements and the initial organized resistance, including supporting the Macca and Tuulama Self-Help Association. He was among the few who dedicated their lives to the cause, transforming his business into a meeting place for freedom fighters and his home into a safe house. Furthermore, he provided material support to the Oromo Liberation Army.
Through his overt and covert work, he collaborated with members and supporters of the OLF, such as the late Luba Guddinaa Tumsaa, Jaal Baaroo Tumsaa, Jaal Muhee Abdoo, and former OLF High Council member Jaal Magarsaa Barii. He was subsequently accused by the oppressive regime of the time and imprisoned for ten years alongside Luba Guddinaa Tumsaa.
Throughout successive Ethiopian regimesโthe Haile Selassie monarchy, the Derg, and the TPLF/EPRDFโObbo Dootii Turaa was repeatedly accused, imprisoned, and severely persecuted. Under the particularly brutal repression of the EPRDF/TPLF/OPDO regime, he was forced into exile, ultimately living as a refugee in the United States.
Obbo Dootii Turaa was a wise Oromo elder, a visionary leader, and a respected authority on Oromo affairs and identity. He remained unwavering in his commitment to Oromo freedom until his final days. He passed away on November 18, 2025, in the United States, at an advanced age after a period of illness.
The Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) conveys its heartfelt condolences and shares in the grief of his family, relatives, and the wider Oromo nation. We pray for strength and resilience during this difficult time.
A Fighter Falls, The Struggle Continues!
Victory to the Masses!
Oromo Liberation Front (OLF)
November 18, 2025
Finfinnee
The Gada System: A Living Legacy Passed to a New Generation
The Gada system is the proud heritage of the Oromo people. It is a system of bravery and discipline, founded on structured laws, principles, and timelines.
For over a century, the succession of Gada assemblies faced suppression and was pushed to the brink of being lost to the harsh pressures of the time. However, because our people held steadfast to their system and culture, it has not only been revived but has also gained worldwide recognition. As is well known, the Gada system is registered by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Guji Oromo have played an exceptional role in preserving this system to the present day. For the Guji, Gada is not just for the leaders; the entire community forms the foundation of this system. As evidence, since 1424 [2012 EC], the Guji have recorded every Abbaa Gada who has led them through successive generations, without significant error or omission. In that year, following established tradition, they gathered at Me’ee Bokkoo for the transfer of power (Baallii), establishing laws and conducting various rituals and ceremonies.
In accordance with Oromo law and tradition, the assembly sat continuously at Me’ee Bokkoo for the past seven days. They established and proclaimed the nine articles of “The Wayyooma Waaqaa Lafaa and the Bulii Olii of Sons and Daughters.” This assembly has a father. Its father is Abbaa Gadaa Jiloo Maandhoo. He was the 74th Haaganaa, or General Abbaa Gadaa, of the Guji.
The process for the 75th Baallii transfer has been completed. Abbaa Gadaa Jiloo Maandhoo has concluded his term and received his honor (daraaraa). He was celebrated with the verse:
โHoo’aa mi’ii gadaa tiyyaa
Hoo’aa itittuu gadaa tiyyaa
Hoo’aa areera gadaa tiyyaa
Hoo’aa daraaraa gadaa tiyyaaโ
(Farewell, the council of my Gada; / Farewell, the foundation of my Gada; / Farewell, the legacy of my Gada; / Farewell, the honor of my Gada.)
The Gada power has moved from Gadaa Harmuufa to Gadaa Roobalee. Abbaa Gadaa Jaarsoo Dhugoo has received the Baallii! The former Abbaa Gadaa, Jiloo Maandhoo, has become an elder! The door has been closed! The door is now closed!
This is how the Oromo people have brought the Gada system to this day. As a member of this generation, witnessing the Gada assembly at Me’ee Bokkoo and the peaceful transfer of power for the 75th time filled me with immense joy.
The core mission of our Reformist Government is to restore the Oromo people to their culture and identity. Consequently, we are focusing significant effort on revitalizing it for the benefit of our society. The Gada system is being integrated into the educational curriculum, taught from primary school levels. At the higher education level, we are encouraging research leading to Master’s and PhD degrees.
Furthermore, we are working to re-establish and institutionalize Gada values. By drawing from its philosophy, we have established the Cultural Court of Law to ensure restorative justice. We have institutionalized community service to strengthen social bonds.
To foster mutual support and responsibility, we have re-established the Buusaa Gonofaa system. Going a step further, we are providing nutritious meals to schoolchildren, building a healthy future generation. We are establishing the Gaachana Sirnaa (Security Institutions) to ensure public safety. In the future, these civic institutions will continue to expand their reach and efficiency.
Me’ee Bokkoo is a sacred site. For generations, it has been a center for legislative debate and judicial verdicts. Because it is where the Gada assembly convenes for the transfer of power, it is the parliamentary center for the Guji Oromo. It is a place of respect and cleanliness. This is why the Guji invoke the name of Me’ee Bokkoo when they pray to Waaqaa.
In this spirit, the Oromia Regional Government announces that the ceremony for the 76th Baallii transfer will be preceded by the construction of a grand amphitheater at Me’ee Bokkoo, as a cultural center.
I extend my congratulationsโbaga geessanโto the Guji people and all Oromo people, for successfully reaching the 75th Gada transfer at Me’ee Bokkoo. My hope and vision for the coming years is that it will be a time when our culture flourishes and our identity is fully restored.
Gadaan quufaa gabbina (The Gada of Quufa is prosperity);
Gadaan Roobalee misa (The Gada of Roobalee is honey).
Horaa Bulaa; Deebanaa! (The Hora of Bulaa shall return!)
President of the Oromia Regional Government
Ethiopian Opposition Calls for Fair 2026 Election Conditions
Press Release: Ethiopian Opposition Parties Outline Fundamental Preconditions for a Credible 2026 Election
Addis Ababa, November 12, 2025 โ The undersigned coalition of Ethiopian opposition parties has closely monitored the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia’s (NEBE) preliminary activities concerning the 2026 General Election.
While we acknowledge this as a procedural step, we state unequivocally: in the complete absence of a democratic foundation in Ethiopia today, and without a guaranteed conducive environment, this exercise is a hollow and meaningless endeavor.
Historically, Ethiopian elections have been political performances designed to legitimize an authoritarian system. They have been neither free nor fair, their results neither credible nor publicly accepted. Consequently, they have exacerbated conflict and instability rather than resolving the nation’s profound political crises. A genuine election must be an expression of citizens’ democratic rights, not a tool for rulers to consolidate power.
Therefore, for the 2026 election to represent a genuine step toward lasting peace and a decisive break from this past, we insist that creating a conducive environment is not optional, but an absolute prerequisite. Before any discussion of an electoral calendar can begin, the Ethiopian government must take immediate and concrete action on the following non-negotiable foundational conditions:
1. An Inclusive National Dialogue and Political Settlement
The government must immediately initiate a comprehensive political dialogue with all opposition parties, including those in exile and armed struggle, to agree on a shared roadmap for a genuine democratic transition. An election held without prior national consensus on the nation’s existential issues will only deepen the crisis and cannot produce a legitimate outcome.
2. An End to Armed Conflict and Guaranteed Security
The devastating wars in Oromia, Amhara, Tigray, Afar, and beyond must be brought to a swift, permanent, and verifiable end. Peace and security are the bedrock of any credible election. All parties, candidates, voters, and observers must be able to operate freely and safely across the entire country.
3. The Unconditional Opening of Political Space
The government must immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners. Hundreds of illegally shuttered opposition party offices must be reopened, and the systematic harassment and intimidation of political opponents must cease. Participating in an election while our leaders are imprisoned and our offices are closed is not a credible democratic process.
4. Fundamental Institutional and Legal Reforms
We question the capacity and independence of the NEBE and demand its reconstitutionโfrom the board level to polling station staffโthrough a transparent, consensus-based process with full political party participation. The electoral law must be fundamentally amended to ensure a fair, inclusive, and proportional system, including the removal of the restrictive support signature requirement.
5. Guaranteed Neutrality of State Institutions
A legally binding agreement must ensure the tangible neutrality of all security forces (defense, police, intelligence) and the judiciary. These institutions must serve the constitution and the nation, not the ruling party. A secure environment where citizens can vote without fear is non-negotiable.
6. Unfettered Press Freedom
The persecution of journalists must end, and all legal barriers stifling independent media must be removed. All local and international media must have equal access to information and polling stations, and face no restrictions on dissemination.
7. Robust Observation by Domestic and International Monitors
The government must legally guarantee the unhindered participation of credible domestic and international observers throughout the entire electoral process. The NEBE’s deployment of unvetted “domestic observers” is insufficient and will not guarantee credibility.
A Call for Verification and Unity
To ensure these are not empty words, the fulfillment of these conditions must be verified by independent international actors, including the African Union (AU), European Union (EU), and United Nations (UN). Public trust must be built through reliable agreements among all electoral stakeholders.
We therefore issue a collective call to the government and ruling party to immediately begin fulfilling these preconditions.
We also call upon all genuine democratic political parties, civic organizations, media, and the people of Ethiopia to unite in demanding this democratic foundation. The 2026 election can only be historic if we first build the ground upon which it can stand. Our mission for unity cannot be postponed.
Finally, we call upon Ethiopia’s international partners and friendly nations to stand with the Ethiopian people in this struggle to build a democratic system, thereby rendering a great service to our nation and its future.
Unity is Strength! A United Struggle Will Prevail!
List of Signatory Parties:
- Hibir Ethiopia Democratic Party (Hibir Ethiopia)
- All Sidama People’s Democratic Unity Party (ASPDUP)
- Balderas for Genuine Democracy (Balderas)
- Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP)
- Ethiopian Social Democratic Party (ESDP)
- Ethiopian Political Parties Joint Forum (MEDREK)
- Oromo Liberation Front (OLF)
- Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC)
- Wolaytta National Movement (WNM)
- Arena Tigray for Democracy and Sovereignty (Arena Tigray)
November 12, 2025, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Oromo Rights Protest Held in London, Demanding International Action on Ethiopia
LONDON, UK โ December 10, 2025 โ A protest organized under the banner “Tumsa Haqa Oromoo” (Support Oromo Rights) was held in London, with participants calling for an end to human rights abuses in Ethiopia and international intervention to halt the ongoing violence in the Oromia region.
According to Dr. Gizaaw Taasisaa, a member of the organizing committee who spoke to OMN, the protest’s key objectives were to condemn the widespread human rights violations and killings targeting the Oromo people, demand an end to the attacks on Oromia’s borders, and urge the global community to take decisive action.
Protesters highlighted that the offensive on Oromia’s borders has enabled militias, particularly the “Fino” in Western and Central Oromia, to carry out mass killings against civilians.
Key Demands Presented
As outlined by Dr. Gizaaw Taasisaa, the demonstrators presented several critical demands to the Ethiopian government:
- Immediately haltย the forced conscription of children into the military.
- Cease the killingsย of Oromo civilians.
- End the genocideย and the military operations being conducted across Ethiopia.
- Withdraw all forcesย from Oromia.
Furthermore, protesters called for justice and accountability, demanding:
- The cases of murdered artists and activists, includingย Haacaaluu Hundeessaaย andย Battee Urgeessaa, and all other victims be brought to light.
- Theย unconditional release of all political prisonersย in Ethiopia.
- That Ethiopian officials responsible for crimes be brought beforeย international courts.
Focus on Dirree Dhawaa and International Complicity
The protest also specifically condemned the government’s ongoing attacks in the Somali regional state against Oromia. Dr. Gizaaw Taasisaa emphasized that the city of Dirree Dhawaa is historically, legally, demographically, and geographically part of Oromia.
Finally, the demonstrators called on theย UK Government and international financial institutionsย to suspend all financial and diplomatic support to the Ethiopian government. A formal petition detailing these grievances was also submitted to the UK Foreign Office.
Oromedia 