ONM – Gindhir, East Bale, 29 May 2025
Residents of Ilaanii Dooyyoo village in Gindhir district, East Bale Zone, have taken to the streets in protest against the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) government, decrying what they describe as systematic repression, forced conscription, and the denial of basic services.
The protests, which broke out last week, were sparked by growing frustration over reports of extrajudicial killings, beatings, and restrictions on access to essential infrastructure such as water and roads. According to a statement from Oromia National Media – Arraata Biyyoolessa Oromiyaa (ONM-ABO), the actions of government forces in the region amount to blatant violations of fundamental human rights.
On 27 May 2025, federal security forces responded by launching a crackdown, detaining several individuals suspected of participating in the demonstrations. Among those arrested are Kamaal Huseen Galchuu, Maamilee Adam Jiloo, Mohammed Ibroo, Kamaal Tarishee Maammee, Ahimad Mohaammad Huseen , Mohammed Umaroo, and Abunaa Umar Tashee. Local sources report that the number of detainees is rising, with further arrests ongoing.
Beyond the violent repression, residents in more than 54 surrounding villages report being coerced by local authorities to pay between 4,000 and 7,000 birr per person under the pretext of funding the construction of administrative offices. Community members say that after the initial payments were collected, officials claimed the funds had been depleted and began demanding an additional 3,000 birr or more, placing enormous financial pressure on already impoverished households.
Human rights monitors and Oromo advocacy groups have condemned the actions of the Prosperity Party administration, accusing it of exploiting rural communities while denying them even the most basic public services. The mounting unrest reflects growing public anger at the government’s militarised rule and economic exploitation in Oromia.
As of publication, the Prosperity Party and local authorities have not issued any official response to the protests or the allegations of abuse and extortion.
