US calls on Ethiopia's authorities to investigate human rights abuses

BY

Egypt Today staff

-

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 - 12:22 GMT

BY

Egypt Today staff

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 - 12:22 GMT

Forces fighting in Tigray in Ethiopia - REUTERS

Forces fighting in Tigray in Ethiopia - REUTERS

CAIRO - 13 December 2021: The United States noted with grave concern unconfirmed new reports alleging egregious human rights abuses, atrocities, and destruction of civilian infrastructure by Tigrayan forces in the Amhara and Afar regions of Ethiopia.


A statement released on Sunday night on the US Department of State's website said "We call on all armed actors to renounce violence against civilians. We also urge authorities to investigate these reports to determine their veracity and to commit to inclusive, transparent processes to hold responsible parties accountable."

"The United States reiterates its support for diplomacy as the first, last, and only option to cease hostilities, just as we call for an end to human rights abuses and violations; negotiations without preconditions; unhindered humanitarian access; and the start to inclusive national dialogue." the statement added.

U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman will embark on a tour of the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Egypt to discuss the international efforts to end the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia, Reuters quoted State Department spokesperson Ned Price as saying.
 
On November 5, 2021, the US Embassy in Addis Ababa called on American citizens to not travel to Ethiopia and consider departing now over insecurity due to the ongoing armed conflict.
 
In the same month, Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and the UN Human Rights Office released a report, revealing violations by all parties in the Tigray conflict of international human rights, humanitarian and refugee law, and possible war crimes and crimes against humanity.
 
As per the Tigray conflict, hundreds of thousands have been displaced and the region was brought to the brink of famine.
 
The conflict between Tigray and the federal government has been ongoing since November 1, 2020, as a result of the former's objection to the postponement of elections, and the marginalization of politicians affiliated with the Tigray People Liberation Front (TPLF), which used to be an integral part of the consecutive governments for decades.
  
On November 3, 2021, the Egyptian Embassy at Addis Ababa advised expats to exercise caution after Ethiopian authorities had declared the state of emergency.
 
The embassy urged – on social media - members of the Egyptian community to limit their movements, stick to the Ethiopian government's instructions, and always carry their identity documents. That is in addition to steering clear from crowds and remote areas.
 

Comments

0

Leave a Comment

Be Social