Contract photographer at Getty Images, UPI, Redux Pictures and the Sundance Institute. Any opinions expressed are solely my own.
United States/Ethiopia
Joined February 2011
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@SFRCdems I am a Washington DC based photojournalist who has been covering the war in Ethiopia for the past 16 months. When I am in DC I cover The Hill and am at the Capitol often. I am willing to meet to discuss my first hand experiences covering the war if you are open to it.
jemal countess retweeted
Paravicini shows her true colors (and ignorance) with this paragraph, the old Oromumma lie that Menelik's campaign was about "conquest." In reality, it was to take back lands and territories captured during the Oromo invasion. Nor was Amhara culture and language "imposed." π
jemal countess retweeted
π¨ New report reveals 42 Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo churches have been destroyed by Oromia Region security forces across Horo Guduru Wollega and East Wollega Zones over the past three months; names of 28 churches released
A new report published by Ethio Focus News on October 29th, 2026, documents the destruction, burning and looting of 42 Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo churches across Limu, Gida Ayana and Dengoro Woredas in Horo Guduru Wollega and East Wollega Zones, Oromia Region, over recent months.
According to Ethio Focus News, the attacks occurred amid ongoing violence involving Oromia Region security forces, including Gada Commando units, backed by Ethiopian National Defense Force, and their attack on the Amhara population in the area. The report describes widespread destruction of religious institutions, including historic churches that have served local Orthodox Christian communities for decades. Sources believe the attacks were intended to deprive the Amhara residents of places of refuge and undermine their religious and spiritual morale.
Of the 42 affected churches, Ethio Focus News has released the names and founding years of 28 churches, listed below.
List of the 28 church locations, names and their founding years:
1. Mender 4, Medhane Alem (1979)
2. Mender 3, St. Mary (1979)
3. Mender 22, Medhane Alem (1983)
4. Endode, Holy Trinity (1986)
5. Mender 6, St. George (1984)
6. Endode, Shasho Ber Abo (1987)
7. Endode, Shasho Ber St. Mary (1991)
8. Mender 5, Zion St. Mary (1980)
9. Endode, Bechiboch St. George (1981)
10. Leli, Tekle Haymanot (1983)
11. Waja, Abo (1988)
12. Ngulo, St. Gabriel (1992)
13. Ali, St. Michael (1981)
14. Ali, St. Mary (1983)
15. Tulu Lencha, St. Michael (1979)
16. Bejet, Abo (1997)
17. Sosolo, St. Michael (1995)
18. Chancho, St. Mary (2006)
19. Mender 6, Weseta St. George (1982)
20. Gind Ansaw, St. Michael (1987)
21. Mender 1, Debre Hayl Tekle Haymanot (1985)
22. Tulu Lencha, St. Mary (1980)
23. Waja, Medhane Alem (2009)
24. Waja, St. George (2007)
25. Melka, Lemi Medhane Alem (2011)
26. Seqela, Bale Egziabher (2006)
27. Hare, St. Michael (2003)
28. Boda, Baβeta St. Mary (2008)
Ethio Focus News stated that information concerning the remaining 14 churches is still being collected and that additional findings will be published as further details emerge.
The reported destruction of these religious institutions adds to concerns about continuing attacks on Amhara and Orthodox Christian communities, widespread displacement and damage to civilian infrastructure across Oromia Region.
π¨ Over 200 Amhara civilians killed by Oromia Region Gada Commando and ENDF attacks across Wollega, with 13 villages destroyed, three churches burned and thousands displaced
New details have emerged following the reported massacre of approximately 80 Amhara civilians, predominantly women, infants, children and elderly residents, in Sibu Sire Woreda, East Wollega Zone, on October 28th, 2026. The victims were fleeing ongoing attacks in Gida Ayana Woreda and traveling toward Addis Ababa when Oromia Region Gada Commando forces intercepted their crowded public bus at a checkpoint near Sire Town, approximately 55 kilometers from Nekemte. The passengers, along with the driver and his assistant, were allegedly forced into a nearby forest and killed with machetes and knives. The displaced civilians had previously paid 3,000 birr per person to cross the Anger River in an attempt to escape the violence.
Additional reports indicate that more than 60 displaced civilians were killed within 24 hours during a separate attack on an internally displaced persons (IDP) shelter camp near the Anger River. The death toll may be higher, with recovery efforts and efforts to establish the full number of victims remaining incomplete.
βͺοΈGuto Gida Woreda β Over 4,500 displaced civilians trapped in Uke
More than 4,500 displaced Amhara civilians attempting to reach Addis Ababa were intercepted and forcibly redirected by local administration officials into a single displacement camp in Uke, Guto Gida Woreda. Over the preceding two weeks, the camp was surrounded by Oromia Region Gada Commando, Gachana Sirna and Oromia Special Forces. Facing severe food shortages and fearing another massacre, displaced families issued urgent appeals for protection.
βͺοΈAnger Gutin β Three buses carrying displaced women and children intercepted
On the morning of October 28th, Oromia regional security personnel intercepted three public buses carrying displaced civilians, predominantly women and children, fleeing Anger Gutin near Nekemte. The buses were forced to turn back and redirected to Mender 14 (Village 14). Sources stated that regional authorities were restricting the departure of women and children in an attempt to prevent a complete civilian exodus from the area.
βͺοΈHoro Guduru Wollega Zone β 75 civilian bodies recovered in Abi Dengoro Woreda
Between October 25th and 27th, attacks by Oromia Region Gada Commando and other regional security forces targeted civilian communities in Tulu Gana, Chancho and Bejet, Abi Dengoro Woreda. Search and burial operations recovered 75 civilian bodies, including 65 buried on October 27th. Among those killed were Sheikh Mohamed Arab, the chief imam of the local mosque, and Ato Ademale along with nine members of his family. Additional residents remain missing.
The violence has left more than 13 villages destroyed and three churches burned, while over 160,000 civilians have been displaced from the Gida Ayana area amid continuing attacks since August. The destruction of homes, religious institutions and agricultural livelihoods has further intensified the humanitarian emergency across East Wollega and Horo Guduru Wollega Zones.
The latest developments point to an expanding humanitarian crisis, with displaced civilians facing attacks along evacuation routes, restrictions on movement, food shortages and limited access to protection.
jemal countess retweeted
π¨ At least 80 Amhara civilians, mostly women and children, massacred by Oromia Region Gada Commando forces this morning after being forced off a bus in Sibu Sire Woreda, East Wollega Zone
At least 80 Amhara civilians fleeing ongoing massacres in Gida Ayana Woreda, East Wollega Zone, were killed by Oromia Region Gada Commando forces in Sibu Sire Woreda on October 28th, 2026. The victims, who had been displaced from their homes, were traveling toward Addis Ababa in an attempt to escape the violence. According to sources on the ground, the displaced civilians had crossed the Anger River after paying 3,000 birr per person before boarding a bus bound for Addis Ababa. While traveling through Sibu Sire Woreda, the bus was intercepted by Oromia Region Gada Commando forces, who allegedly forced all passengers to disembark and took them into a nearby forest, where they were brutally killed with machetes and large knives. Approximately 80% of the victims were women and children, while the remaining 20% were elderly civilians.
In a separate attack, more than 60 displaced civilians were killed within the past 24 hours after armed forces attacked another camp sheltering people who had crossed the Anger River while fleeing the violence. Sources stated that the bodies of victims remain unrecovered, with particularly disturbing accounts indicating that the remains of six children were consumed by hyenas.
Meanwhile, displaced Amhara civilians attempting to escape the ongoing violence in Wollega face increasingly desperate conditions as major land transportation routes toward Addis Ababa and Gojjam remain closed, while airfares have risen sharply. These restrictions have left thousands of displaced civilians and travelers with limited means of evacuation, exposing them to further attacks.
π¨ More than 42 Amhara civilians massacred by Oromia Region Gada Commando forces, including over 40 in Tulu Gana and more than 20 taken from their homes and executed in Mender 23
On October 26th, more than 15 Amhara civilians fleeing massacres in Tulu Gana and Menders 15, 17 and 18 were intercepted by Oromia Region security forces backed by ENDF near the Anger area while attempting to reach Gutin and Uke towns. Eyewitnesses who survived the attack stated that the victims had their hands tied behind their backs before being killed with machetes and knives. According to survivors, the attackers told the women and children, βWe will not waste bullets on you,β before striking them with machetes and cutting their throats. Additional civilians reportedly drowned in a nearby river while attempting to escape the violence.
jemal countess retweeted
π¨ Oromia Region security forces and Qeerroo (Oromo youth) massacre over 40 Amhara civilians, including a 10-day-old infant and six children, in Horo Guduru Wollega; over 160,000 displaced from Gida Ayana
On October 26th, 2026, attacks against Amhara civilians continued across Abi Dengoro Woreda, Horo Guduru Wollega Zone, Oromia Region. According to survivors Ethio Focus News spoke to, Oromia Regional Security Forces and armed Qeerroo (Oromo youth), supported by Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) heavy artillery, carried out attacks in Tulu Gana, Chancho, Gulma and Tulu Lenca kebeles, killing more than 40 civilians, including women, children and elderly residents.
Among those killed with machetes and knives were prominent local merchant Ato Ali Adem, his wife and their six children, as well as a mother who had given birth just 10 days earlier, her newborn infant and other young children. Bodies of victims remained uncollected along the main road connecting Tulu Gana and Chancho Gulma. Residential homes and commercial establishments in Gulma Town were looted and burned, while livestock were stolen and slaughtered near Village 23 School.
Internally displaced civilians sheltering at Menageria Kidane Mihret Church were left vulnerable after ENDF personnel and local municipal officials evacuated toward the Village 15βGutin exit. Additional attacks and displacement were reported around the Menageria school and bus station area.
Meanwhile, more than 160,000 Amhara civilians have been displaced from Gida Ayana Woreda between August 18th and October 26th. The displacement followed sustained attacks across Gida Ayana, Gutin, Village 23, Endicho, Waja and surrounding areas. Thousands of women, children and elderly residents fled into forests, crossed the Anger River toward Benishangul-Gumuz Region, or attempted to escape through Nekemte Airport, where displaced civilians encountered excessive ticket prices and additional pressure.
π¨ Over 300 Amhara civilians killed by ENDF and Gada Commando forces in five days of attacks across Wollega, Oromia region; 13 villages and three churches destroyed as thousands flee
On October 25th, 2026, attacks against Amhara civilians entered their fifth consecutive day across East Wollega and Horo Guduru Wollega Zones, Oromia Region. According to local sources Ethio Focus News spoke to, more than 300 civilians have been killed and thousands displaced in operations involving the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), Oromia Region Gada Commando, Gachana Sirna and Repelola security units, the Abiy regime-backed Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) faction led by Jaal Mose, and armed Qeerroo (Oromo youth) militias.
The attacks extended across eight woredas, including Gida Ayana, Anger Gutin, Abidengoro, Charda, Jarti and Kiremu. In Abidengoro Woreda, violence was reported in Tulu Gana Kebele, Chancho Town, Wollo Sefer and the Bejet area, where civilian settlements and religious institutions were targeted.
Over the five-day period, 13 historical villages were completely burned and destroyed, including Wollo Sefer, a settlement established in 1964. Chancho Town was also set ablaze, while three churches in the Bejet area were burned down. Thousands of displaced civilians have fled into surrounding communities, facing severe humanitarian conditions. Federal forces also conducted four drone strikes targeting civilian settlements.
Beginning at approximately 11:00 AM on October 25th, phone and internet data services were shut down across eight affected woredas, including Gida Ayana, Anger Gutin, Abidengoro, Charda, Jarti and Kiremu, severely restricting communication and the flow of information from areas experiencing ongoing attacks.
jemal countess retweeted
The death toll in Arsi, in Ethiopiaβs Oromia region, has surpassed 60 in a massacre allegedly orchestrated by Oromo extremists and Islamist groups. These groups have continually attacked Orthodox Christians and ethnic Amharas across the region since Abiy Ahmed came to power.
π€ Made with AI
jemal countess retweeted
π¨ Oromia Region security forces are arresting Shirka Orthodox Christian massacre survivors who buried victims and shared photos on social media
Following the October 24th, 2026, massacre of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians in Shirka Woreda, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, local accounts describe a wave of arrests by Oromia Region security forces targeting survivors who helped recover and bury victims. Elders, youths and women who collected bodies from different locations and participated in burials are being detained, alongside residents suspected of photographing the deceased and sharing images on social media.
Government armed security personnel are also conducting house-to-house searches and inspecting residentsβ mobile phones for photographs documenting the massacre. The arrests and searches have raised concerns about the safety of survivors and the suppression of evidence relating to the killings.
π¨ Death toll in Shirka Orthodox Christian massacre rises as residents in neighboring Guna and Merti Woredas face threats of further attacks by government-backed Oromo militants
The death toll from the October 24th, 2026, massacre of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians in Shirka Woreda, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, has increased following the deaths of two additional victims who sustained severe injuries during the attacks. One victim died at Gobessa Hospital on Saturday, while another succumbed to injuries the following evening. Earlier accounts identified at least 47 Orthodox Christians killed in the attacks on Birbo and Chole, with Oromia Region Repelola militia members and allied armed groups implicated in the killings.
Meanwhile, on October 25th, residents of neighboring Guna and Merti Woredas raised urgent concerns over threats of similar attacks. Local accounts attributed the threats to regime-backed Oromo militants, who allegedly warned Orthodox Christian residents, βNow it is your turn. Just wait, we will deal with you very soon.β Reports also indicated that armed groups were making preparations for further attacks, prompting fears of another massacre.
The warnings follow repeated appeals by Orthodox Church officials in Shirka, who stated that they had alerted authorities to the presence of armed groups before the October 24th killings but received no effective protection. Residents in Guna and Merti are now calling for urgent intervention to prevent further civilian casualties.
jemal countess retweeted
Where are the condemnations from entertainers, social media influencers, and Democrats so-called civil rights warriors?
Massacre of Christians leaves more than 40 dead in Ethiopia trib.al/uGZmqXr
jemal countess retweeted
Death toll has already reached 60 while the @AbiyAhmedAli is arresting the survivors to cover up the massacre
π¨ Names and ages of 46 Ethiopian Orthodox Christians killed in Shirka massacre revealed; residents identify Oromia Region forces as responsible for 25 deaths
On October 24th, 2026, more than 47 Ethiopian Orthodox Christians were killed and numerous others injured in renewed attacks by armed Oromo militants in Chole and Sole Digelu kebeles of Shirka Woreda, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region.
According to the information received so far:
β«οΈThe names of 46 people killed have been obtained. There are additional victims whose names have not yet been received.
β«οΈOf those killed, 25 were massacred by Repelola, an Oromia Region militia operating under the regional government's administrative structure.
β«οΈTwenty-five people sustained serious physical injuries.
β«οΈMore than 20 houses were destroyed.
β«οΈNumerous livestock were looted, while animals that could not be taken away were slaughtered.
Names and ages of the 46 victims
The following is the list of victims whose names have been obtained so far:
1. Kalkidan Kefalew (age 25)
2. Mihret Kefalew (age 12)
3. Kalkidan Demsu (age 12)
4. Dani Takele Kebede (age 25)
5. Kebede Tadesse Biru (age 50)
6. Tiringo Sisay (age 45)
7. Ephrem Teferi Alemu (age 30)
8. Shewan Gizaw Dejenu Waq Tola (age 42)
9. Abay Tesfaye Tesema (age 45)
10. Matewos Lale (age 35)
11. Wudneh Zewde Belachew (age 75)
12. Kebede Mandefro Bokan (age 60)
13. Mulatu Teshome Bokan (age 50)
14. Amde Beley Hun (age 85)
15. Girma Alemu Biru (age 45)
16. Kefalew Alemu Biru (age 60)
17. Begashaw Bogale (age 40)
18. Abraham Sime Kebede (age 24)
19. Kelema Abera (age 60)
20. Minale Getahun Hailemariam (age 45)
21. Demek Eshetu Bokan (age 50)
22. Zeleke Tilahun Eshetu Bokan (age Not specified)
23. Endale Tsegaye Assefa (age 42)
24. Wondimu Legesse Dula (age 60)
25. Abat Kebede Tadesse (age 4)
26. Tamene Tadesse Beyene (age 60)
27. Bekele Dadi (age 40)
28. Abebe Getachew Zewde (age 50)
29. Babi Tamene Tadesse (age 10)
30. Yilma Woldesenbet (age 70)
31. Niguse Mandefro Bokan (age 65)
32. Mebrat Getachew (age 50)
33. Gebeyehu Asamine (age 35)
34. Tamene Getachew (age 40)
35. Firaol Yismu Atnafe (age 25)
36. Abay Geredew Feye (age 50)
37. Abu Degu Kassa (age 48)
38. Tadesse Desta (age 80)
39. Atlaw Amde (age 39)
40. Mekuria Sebsibe (age 45)
41. Mesfin Temene (age 58)
42. Wosene Abera (age 53)
43. Hana Getaneh (age 15)
44. Mekdes Kefalew (age 18)
45. Teshome Melse (age 64)
46. Abiti Tekle (age 32)
Additional information about victim No. 40: Mekuria Sebsibe, aged 45, was a security guard at Sole Medhane Alem Church in Sole Digelu Kebele.
Circumstances before the massacre
1. Dissemination of false information targeting Orthodox Christians
With the approval of government officials, false information claiming that "Every Orthodox Christian is Fano" was reportedly circulated on social media and promoted in mosques.
2. Repelola militia commander requested reinforcements to take action against Orthodox Christians
A commander of the Oromia Region Repelola militia reportedly contacted zonal authorities and stated:
"There are absolutely no Shene (OLA) in Shirka. Those currently causing problems are Orthodox Fano (meaning the Orthodox population itself). Therefore, we request that you send us additional forces so that we can take strong action against them."
3. Former Chaffee (parliament) Oromia official allegedly coordinated with militia members
Abdella Aman, also known as Abdella Micro, a former member of Caffee Oromia (Oromia Regional Council), who was accused of orchestrating the massacre of Orthodox Christians, was reportedly hosting and holding discussions with Repelola militia members alongside individuals known for their extremist views.
4. Supplies transported to the areas where the massacre occurred
Soft drinks and various other supplies were reportedly transported to Birbo and Chole for the perpetrators of the massacre.
5. Speeches at a mosque in Gobessa Town
On Friday, Islamic religious teachers (ustazes) at a mosque in Gobessa Town, the administrative center of Shirka Woreda, reportedly delivered speeches indicating that an attack was being planned.
During the massacre
Repelola militia members reportedly participated in the killings alongside Oromo militants.
After the massacre
Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) entered Shirka Woreda after nightfall. However, according to local residents, the troops remained in their positions without moving into the affected areas until the afternoon of October 25, 2026.
When ENDF personnel finally moved toward the areas where the massacre had occurred that afternoon, they reportedly withdrew in less than one hour.
jemal countess retweeted
π¨ Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Holy Synod announces that 60 believers were killed in Arsi Zone over the past few days
Source: @MeseretMedia
The Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church has announced that 60 Orthodox Christian believers were brutally killed in Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, during attacks on October 20 and 24, 2026.
According to the Holy Synod's statement:
βͺοΈ14 believers were killed in Gora Silingo, Angada Kebele, Merti Woreda.
βͺοΈ46 believers were killed in Tereta, Chole and Birbo, Shirka Woreda.
βͺοΈ20 residential homes belonging to believers were completely burned down.
βͺοΈMore than 20 people sustained serious injuries and are receiving treatment in hospitals.
Holy Synod condemns the continued massacres of Orthodox Christians
The Holy Synod stated:
"The extremely horrific and appalling massacres, displacement, physical injuries and destruction of property being inflicted upon our innocent Orthodox Christian children in the Arsi Diocese and various parts of our country have continued without interruption and are worsening over time. It is also known that numerous believers have previously been killed in different woredas of the zone."
The Synod explained that its plenary assembly had observed the immense suffering and atrocities inflicted upon the population with profound sorrow.
It emphasized that such acts are entirely unacceptable under the teachings of any religion and violate fundamental human rights.
The statement continued:
"These inhumane acts violate the constitutional rights to freedom of religion and life, contradict religious teachings and the natural principles of humanity, and destroy our national values of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. Therefore, the Plenary Assembly of the Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church strongly condemns these acts."
Holy Synod calls on authorities to stop the killings and bring perpetrators to justice
The Holy Synod issued an urgent appeal to the relevant authorities, calling on them to publicly condemn the killings and take immediate measures to protect civilians.
The statement declared:
"The Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church strongly urges the responsible authorities to publicly condemn these inhumane acts, uphold the constitutionally guaranteed rights to life and freedom of worship, and bring the perpetrators of these atrocities before the law."
The Synod further called on authorities to uphold the rule of law and provide the necessary legal protection to prevent similar acts of violence from recurring.
It emphasized that the responsible institutions must fulfill their obligations to protect citizens and ensure that such atrocities do not happen again.
Holy Synod demands immediate security protection for Orthodox Christians
Expressing profound grief over the loss of life, the Holy Synod stated:
"We urge the government to provide the necessary protection to our faithful children wherever they may be, so that they do not suffer similar attacks. We also call upon the relevant security institutions to give this matter special attention and take the necessary protective measures until the problem is resolved, working to prevent further dangers."
The Synod extended its condolences to the families of those killed and to all Ethiopians.
It added:
"The Holy Church prays that Almighty God grant eternal rest and the honor of martyrdom to our people who unjustly lost their lives, and provide comfort to the families of the deceased and to all Ethiopians."
Holy Synod announces nationwide and worldwide memorial prayers
The Plenary Assembly of the Holy Synod also adopted several decisions in response to the killings.
1. Memorial prayers on October 26, 2026
The Holy Synod decided that funeral and memorial prayers would be conducted on October 26, 2026 (Tikimt 16, 2019 E.C.), by members of the Plenary Assembly at the Patriarchal See's Holy of Holies St. Mary Monastery.
2. Worldwide memorial prayers on October 27, 2026
The Synod instructed all Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church monasteries and churches throughout the world to conduct funeral and memorial prayers following the Divine Liturgy on October 27, 2026 (Tikimt 17, 2019 E.C.), in remembrance of the victims.
3. Meeting with senior government officials
The Plenary Assembly decided to arrange a meeting with the relevant senior government official to discuss the killings and the security situation affecting Orthodox Christians.
4. Long-term measures to prevent further attacks
The Holy Synod also resolved to pursue appropriate efforts toward a lasting solution to the violence and insecurity affecting Orthodox Christian communities.
The statement concluded by emphasizing the Church's determination to seek protection for its believers, accountability for those responsible for the killings, and lasting measures to prevent further atrocities.
π¨ Funeral held at Medhane Alem Church in Asella for Kassahun, who died in hospital following Shirka Orthodox Christian massacre
The funeral service for Kassahun, who died in hospital, is taking place at Medhane Alem Orthodox Church in Asella, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region. His death comes in the aftermath of the October 24th, 2026, massacre of Orthodox Christians at the hands of @AbiyAhmedAli regime backed Oromo militants in Shirka Woreda, which claimed the lives of at least 47 civilians and left numerous others injured.
Kassahun is among the victims identified in subsequent accounts of deaths following the massacre, as survivors and families continue mourning those killed in the attacks.
Speechlessβ¦. @Chriseldalewis
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π¨ Over 300 Amhara civilians killed by ENDF and Gada Commando forces in five days of attacks across Wollega, Oromia region; 13 villages and three churches destroyed as thousands flee
On October 25th, 2026, attacks against Amhara civilians entered their fifth consecutive day across East Wollega and Horo Guduru Wollega Zones, Oromia Region. According to local sources Ethio Focus News spoke to, more than 300 civilians have been killed and thousands displaced in operations involving the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), Oromia Region Gada Commando, Gachana Sirna and Repelola security units, the Abiy regime-backed Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) faction led by Jaal Mose, and armed Qeerroo (Oromo youth) militias.
The attacks extended across eight woredas, including Gida Ayana, Anger Gutin, Abidengoro, Charda, Jarti and Kiremu. In Abidengoro Woreda, violence was reported in Tulu Gana Kebele, Chancho Town, Wollo Sefer and the Bejet area, where civilian settlements and religious institutions were targeted.
Over the five-day period, 13 historical villages were completely burned and destroyed, including Wollo Sefer, a settlement established in 1964. Chancho Town was also set ablaze, while three churches in the Bejet area were burned down. Thousands of displaced civilians have fled into surrounding communities, facing severe humanitarian conditions. Federal forces also conducted four drone strikes targeting civilian settlements.
Beginning at approximately 11:00 AM on October 25th, phone and internet data services were shut down across eight affected woredas, including Gida Ayana, Anger Gutin, Abidengoro, Charda, Jarti and Kiremu, severely restricting communication and the flow of information from areas experiencing ongoing attacks.
jemal countess retweeted
π¨ Oromia Region forces and former Oromia parliament official implicated in planning of massacre of Orthodox Christians in Shirka Woreda, Arsi Zone
New accounts emerging following the October 24th, 2026, massacre of more than 47 Ethiopian Orthodox Christians in Shirka Woreda, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, have raised allegations of advance coordination involving Oromia Region Repelola militia members, a former regional official and armed Islamist extremists.
According to local accounts, a commander of the Oromia Region Repelola militia contacted zonal authorities before the massacre, claiming that no OLA militants were operating in Shirka and instead identifying the local Orthodox Christian population as βOrthodox Fano.β The commander reportedly requested additional forces to carry out what he described as strong measures against them.
The accounts also identified Abdella Aman, also known as Abdella Micro, a former member of Caffee Oromia parliament, as allegedly involved in coordinating with Repelola militia members and individuals described as religious extremists. He was reportedly seen hosting meetings and providing hospitality to militia members ahead of the attacks. Additional accounts described supplies being transported to Birbo and Chole, while Islamic religious teachers in a mosque in Gobessa Town allegedly delivered speeches on Friday suggesting that an attack was being planned.
The allegations emerged following the October 24th killings in Chole and Sole Digelu, where church officials reported that more than 47 Orthodox Christians were killed, at least 18 others were hospitalized, and victims were buried at St. Raphael and St. Michael churches. Church leaders stated that they had repeatedly warned authorities about armed groups entering the area but received no effective response.
π¨ βWe kept warning that armed groups were entering the area, but no one listened. They came and massacred the people!β β Shirka Woreda Church Official
On October 24th, 2026, more than 47 Ethiopian Orthodox Christians were killed and numerous others injured in renewed attacks by armed groups in Chole and Sole Digelu kebeles of Shirka Woreda, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region. According to testimonies provided to Tikvah Ethiopia by officials of the Arsi Diocese and Shirka Woreda Church Administration, the attacks began around 4:00 AM and continued until approximately 10:00 AM, leaving numerous civilians dead and at least 18 others hospitalized.
A Shirka Woreda Church official, speaking anonymously for security reasons, confirmed that 36 victims had already been buried at one location, while three additional bodies had subsequently been discovered and another three people were reported killed. Victims were buried at Chole St. Raphael and St. Michael churches, while at least one church was reportedly looted. The official described widespread fear, stating, βThe people are burying those who were killed. Roads have been blocked in various places to prevent people from coming together. We do not know what will happen next.β
The latest killings followed earlier attacks in which six Orthodox Christians were killed and five others abducted. Church officials stated that they had repeatedly warned authorities about armed groups entering the area but received no effective response. βIn recent days, we kept raising the alarm that armed groups were entering the area. Because no one was willing to listen to us, the armed groups entered and massacred the people,β the official told Tikvah Ethiopia.
An Arsi Diocese official described the worsening violence as unprecedented and appealed for urgent intervention, declaring, βBe our voice. We have not taken up arms. Be our voice.β The Shirka Woreda Church official also emphasized the communityβs repeated appeals for protection, stating, βAll we want is to live, but we are not being allowed to live. Even now, our message is that our right to life must be respected.β
jemal countess retweeted
Breaking News Alert:
Massacre of Orthodox Tewahedo Christians restarted in Arsi Zone of Oromia State in Ethiopia, reported the Archdiocese.
facebook.com/share/p/1Mxdt9Nβ¦
jemal countess retweeted
(UPDATE) βπThe reported anti-Christians attacks in Arsi Zone have claimed the lives of nearly 50 Orthodox Christians, raising grave concerns over the safety of religious communities in Oromia region.
How many more innocent lives must be lost before those responsible are held accountable? #Ethiopia
@OrthodoxyNews @orthodox_33ad @Orthodoxy2019 @ocaorg
π‘ππͺ πͺππ©π π’π ππ‘π§π-πππ₯ππ¦π§πππ‘π¦ π©ππ’πππ‘ππ ππ‘ ππ§πππ’π£ππ
π¨ BREAKING: Dozens of Orthodox Christians are feared killed, churches burned, and hundreds more reportedly wounded, in a new wave of anti-Orthodox Christians attacks in Chole, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia.
As insecurity, violence, and bloodshed continue to spread across #Ethiopia, is there any hope for the country under Abiy Ahmedβs leadership?
(Photo: archive)
jemal countess retweeted
47 Orthodox Christians Killed and Homes Burned in Arsi Attack. Read more.Β
borkena.com/ethiopia-47-orth⦠#EthiopianNews #OrthodoxChristians #HumanRights
jemal countess retweeted
The massacre has continued, and the death toll has passed 47 Christians. Horrible footage of Oromo Islamists killing Orthodox Christians (ethnic Amharas) and burning their villages is surfacing on local media. Such mass killings are being carried out by government-backed groups.
#Ethiopia: Reports indicate that 10+ Orthodox Christians were killed, dozens were abducted, and a priest was injured in the Shirka & Honkolo districts of the Oromia Region by government-backed Oromo Islamists. The killings of Christians in πͺπΉ under the Abiy Ahmed regime continue.
jemal countess retweeted
π‘ππͺ πͺππ©π π’π ππ‘π§π-πππ₯ππ¦π§πππ‘π¦ π©ππ’πππ‘ππ ππ‘ ππ§πππ’π£ππ
π¨ BREAKING: Dozens of Orthodox Christians are feared killed, churches burned, and hundreds more reportedly wounded, in a new wave of anti-Orthodox Christians attacks in Chole, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia.
As insecurity, violence, and bloodshed continue to spread across #Ethiopia, is there any hope for the country under Abiy Ahmedβs leadership?
(Photo: archive)
jemal countess retweeted
π¨ βMany Orthodox Christians were killed after the force known as Repelola entered the area. We expected them to protect us, but instead they massacred us,β one witness stated. The witness also expressed fears of further attacks, warning, βWe are extremely afraid that these forces will massacre us during the night. If we are attacked again, we want everyone to know that Repelola is responsible.β
π¨ Oromia Region security forces massacre Orthodox Christians sheltering inside St. Raphael Church in Shirka Woreda, Arsi Zone
Witness testimonies emerging from Shirka Woreda, Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, accuse Oromia Regional Security Forces known as Repelola of participating in the massacre of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians alongside armed extremists. According to accounts from the area, Repelola units allegedly opened fire from behind on local farmers attempting to defend their communities against the attacks.
Witnesses further accused Repelola forces, operating under the Oromia Region security structure, of carrying out mass executions of Orthodox Christians who had sought refuge inside St. Raphael Church. The testimonies described the attacks as coordinated operations involving both Repelola units and armed extremist groups.
βMany Orthodox Christians were killed after the force known as Repelola entered the area. We expected them to protect us, but instead they massacred us,β one witness stated. The witness also expressed fears of further attacks, warning, βWe are extremely afraid that these forces will massacre us during the night. If we are attacked again, we want everyone to know that Repelola is responsible.β
The latest testimonies follow reports that at least 47 Orthodox Christians were killed in attacks across Birbo, Chole and Sole Guna kebeles of Shirka Woreda, where residential homes were also burned and property looted. The Arsi Diocese has called for urgent intervention to protect civilians and end the continuing violence.
jemal countess retweeted
The University of Sankore in Timbuktu was operating in the 12th century.
At its peak it had 25,000 students.
It held between 400,000 and 700,000 manuscripts on mathematics, astronomy, medicine, law, literature and theology, many of which are still being catalogued today.
Seven hundred thousand manuscripts.
In a city that European maps labeled "terra incognita."
Unknown land.
Not unknown to the scholars studying astronomy inside it.
Not unknown to the merchants who traveled thousands of miles to reach its markets.
Not unknown to the students who came from across the continent and the Arab world to study there.
Unknown only to the people who needed it to be.
Because 700,000 manuscripts changes the sentence.
Because a university operating a thousand years ago in sub-Saharan Africa changes every assumption that colonialism was ever built on.
And the assumptions needed to survive.
So the manuscripts were not taught.
And the "terra incognita" remained, in the minds of those who needed it to, incognita.
jemal countess retweeted
Until When? #Arsi Mourns Again
In my June 3 commentary, βUntil When? The Arsi Attacks and the Pattern That Will Not End Itself,β I documented the killing of thirteen Orthodox Christians, the destruction of a century-old church, and the displacement of families. Today, October 24, reports from Shirka Woreda indicate another massacre, with at least 47 Orthodox Christians killed. That latest toll still requires independent verification, but the recurring violence is undeniable. Ethiopia's own Human Rights Commission has documented repeated attacks in Arsi and called for effective civilian protection.
As families mourn and communities bury their dead, Ethiopia's leadership appears in the ceremonial surroundings of Bahir Dar Stadium. The contrast is devastating. From Arsi to Amhara, Tigray and beyond, the question remains the same: Until when? How many more innocent lives must be lost before protection, accountability and justice replace political spectacle?
The accompanying poster and three harrowing videos capture the anguish of #Amhara communities: women, children and the elderly mourning their dead, families devastated, and entire communities living under the shadow of recurring violence. The structural violence targeting Amhara communities across Ethiopia continues unabated. Under Nazism, the greatest crime a Jew could commit was simply being Jewish. For decades, countless Amhara civilians have faced persecution for the simple fact of being Amhara. We will continue to bear witness, document every atrocity, preserve the names of the victims, and demand accountability until impunity meets its end on the altar of justice. Until when?
@UNHumanRights @UN_HRC @UN @UNOSAPG @hrw @amnesty @IntlCrimCourt @coe @EUCouncil @eu_eeas @StateDept @SecRubio @USCIRF @CSW_UK @ADFIntl @OpenDoorsUS @persecutionnews @Pontifex @WCCworld #AmharaGenocide #Ethiopia #HumanRights #ReligiousPersecution #EOTC #AbiyAhmedAli #Ethiopia #Gada_Commando
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jemal countess retweeted
Egypt is the most revealing case of all.
Ancient Egypt, with its pyramids, its philosophy, its mathematical precision, its medicine, its legal systems, its art that still stops people in museum halls, is acknowledged as one of the great civilizations of human history.
And for most of Western academic history, it was also systematically, carefully, persistently de-Africanized.
Ancient Egyptians were depicted as lighter than the evidence suggests.
The obvious geographical and cultural connections to the rest of Africa were minimized.
The Nile Valley civilizations that predated the dynastic period were underdiscussed.
Cheikh Anta Diop spent his career arguing that ancient Egypt was an African civilization.
Not Mediterranean. Not racially ambiguous. Not a separate category inserted between "real" Africa and "real" civilization.
African.
The reaction from Western academia was not engagement.
It was dismissal. It was decades of institutional resistance. It was the particular fury of a field that had built its understanding of the ancient world on the careful, necessary, structurally load-bearing separation of Egypt from the continent it sits on.
Because if Egypt is African, then the sentence "Africa had no civilization before Europe arrived" doesnβt just need revision.
It becomes incoherent.
Not just false, but the precise inversion of the truth.
And not just about one dynasty or one period but about the foundational story of Western civilization itself, which drew substantially from Egyptian knowledge in mathematics, medicine, architecture, philosophy.
Which means Western civilization did not bring knowledge to Africa.
It learned from it.
The mummies are still there.
The DNA studies have complicated every clean narrative.
Diopβs work has been increasingly vindicated by genetic and archaeological evidence.
The resistance continues anyway.
But the instinct, the deep structural instinct to separate the civilization you want to celebrate from the continent you needed to be empty, that instinct shaped the field for generations.
You cannot claim the pyramids and also claim the continent that built them had no history.
You cannot do both with a straight face.
They tried anyway.
ALT Pharaoh Nebhepetre Mentuhotep II (reigned c. 2055β2004 BCE). An African king of the Nile Valley who reunified Egypt and founded the Middle Kingdom more than 4,000 years ago. This is not a modern reconstruction. It is an original ancient Egyptian statue, discovered at Deir el-Bahari in 1900. Long before European colonialism, Africa had already produced one of the greatest civilizations in human history. Egypt was African. Its pharaohs were African. Its history is African history. Egyptian Museum, Cairo (JE 36195).