The Permanent Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church said that what is happening to ministers, parishioners and churches in different parts of the country is questionable on earth and in heaven. The Synod is today, Monday, December 08 /2023. In his statement, he pointed out in detail that more than 60 people have been killed in recent attacks on parishioners and church leaders in various places.
The statement stated that “killings, persecution, destruction of property and displacement” is a recurring event; “What is happening in Welega, Gonder, Gojam, Wolo, North Showa, etc. . . In a country where there is a government, hatred based on religion, killing of innocent lives and destruction of wealth” is sad.
More than 60 people were killed in recent attacks on worshipers and churches in Shirka District, RC Zone, Oromia Region. Regarding this attack, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (ESMECO) issued a similar report last week, and the Oromia Region Communication confirmed that the attack took place and blamed the “Shene”, the Oromo Liberation Army, which the government calls terrorists.
Also, in Central Gonder Diocese, a church teacher was “stoned to death by an unknown person” and the General Manager of Central Gondar Zone Diocese was similarly “shot dead by unknown persons”, the statement said. According to the Synod, in the brutal action it is facing, “the lack of responsibility and accountability is causing irreparable danger to the lives, bodies and property of citizens, religious institutions, irreplaceable natural and man-made heritage…” Shager said that this recurring incident threatens the citizens’ ability to live, move from place to place, their physical and property security, and the freedom of religion and belief.
In addition to the problems caused by hunger, drought, high cost of living and unemployment in the country, due to the unrest and conflicts, “many have left their homes, monks have left monasteries and fled; Pregnant mothers, the sick and the elderly are dying due to lack of medical care, children and youth are hindered from healthy development and education.
At the conclusion of the statement, the Synod called for dialogue and consultation to get out of civil killings and wars, and to give priority to the protection and security of citizens.Also, the Permanent Synod called for an immediate end to the attacks on the members and institutions of the Church, for the government and relevant bodies to provide guarantees, for the perpetrators to be brought to justice, and for the whole world to condemn the act.
In addition, he urged that special protection should be given to great churches and monasteries such as Zzkala Gebre Holy Ghost, Debre Libanos Abune Tekleheman Monastery, Asbot Debre Wegeg Abune Samuel Monastery and its surroundings, Debre Roha Saint Lalibala Monastery, which are said to be in danger. One of the reasons for this statement by the church’s permanent synod is that following the attack that took place in the RC zone of the Oromia region a week ago, many people told the BBC that their property was destroyed and they fled their homes due to fear.