ONM-ABO May 29, 2024
The Ethiopian government, led by Dictator Abiy Ahmed, has consistently attempted to address political challenges through the use of force, following a pattern seen in previous regimes. One of the most pressing issues has been the Oromo people’s demand for statehood, which has been met with suppression, marginalization, killings, imprisonment, and forced disappearances of Oromo individuals.
The Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) has long been in conflict with the government, seeking resolution for Oromia-related issues. However, instead of engaging in peaceful dialogue, the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) has escalated its military actions in areas controlled by the OLA.
In a recent series of military engagements against the OLA, the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) faced significant setbacks. On May 25, 2024, two separate incidents occurred:
- Haro Danaba Engagement (Bule Hora District, West Guji Zone): The ENDF engaged OLA forces in a battle lasting over three hours. The result was a substantial military setback for the ENDF, with a reported death toll of 40 and over 30 fatal injuries. The ENDF retreated to their bases, paying a high price in human lives.
- Hirmayeti Encounter (Arero District, Borana Zone): In this coordinated attack, the Madda Albuda and Goro Dugda battalion OLA intercepted an ENDF military movement. The ENDF had been accused of terrorizing local communities. The OLA fighters executed a precise attack, inflicting serious losses on the state army. The ENDF scattered and retreated in disarray, suspending military activities in the area.
During this encounter, the OLA recovered weapons, munitions, and other military assets, and the ENDF military suffered heavy casualties within 24 hours. Demoralized and defeated, the ENDF resorted to destroying forests in Oromia, which are considered breeding grounds for OLA forces.
