Residents of Munessa and Saagure districts in the East Arsi zone have reported being forcibly prevented from growing their crops of choice. Farmers who cultivated potatoes are now being compelled to sow wheat instead, with many facing beatings, fines, and denial of access to fertilizer, according to local sources.
The affected communities told ONM that potato farming has long been their primary means of supporting their families. However, PP is allegedly enforcing wheat cultivation, destroying existing crops, and imposing an unfamiliar farming practice on the area. This has left families struggling with a crop they have no experience growing and one that is not traditionally cultivated in the area.
