Church Reports 60 Orthodox Christians Killed in Two Attacks in Ethiopia's Oromia Region

At least 60 Orthodox Christians were killed in two separate attacks in Ethiopia's Oromia region this month, according to church officials.

The holy synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church issued a statement on Monday describing the violence as "extremely tragic cruelty and suffering inflicted on our citizens." It said more than 20 people were seriously injured and 20 homes were burned down.

According to the church, 14 people died on October 20 in Gora Silingo, Angada Kebele, in Merti district. A further 46 were killed on October 24 in the villages of Tereta, Chole and Birbo in Shirka district. Both districts lie in the Arsi Zone in central Oromia.

The synod condemned the attacks, saying they breached constitutional guarantees of the right to life and religious freedom. It also warned that the violence threatens Ethiopia's tradition of peaceful coexistence among different faiths.

The church called on government institutions to condemn the attacks publicly, strengthen the protection of civilians and ensure that the perpetrators face justice. It also asked security agencies to give affected communities extra protection and to act to prevent further violence. The Oromia regional government has pledged to pursue those responsible.

No group has claimed responsibility. Media reports say a local official blamed a newly formed rebel alliance that includes the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA). The OLA has previously denied accusations that it attacks civilians.

The killings come against a backdrop of continuing insecurity in Oromia, Ethiopia's largest regional state, which is home to about 40 million people. Government forces have fought armed groups there for years. In July, the Ethiopian Human Rights Council reported that at least 432 civilians and four local militia members had been killed in targeted attacks across East Arsi between 2021-22 and June 1 of this year.

The holy synod said it would seek talks with senior government officials to address the security crisis. It held prayers for the victims on Monday and directed Orthodox churches and monasteries worldwide to hold similar services on Tuesday, after the Divine Liturgy.

The church extended its condolences to the bereaved families and called for urgent steps to ensure that its followers can live and worship without fear.