Ethiopian Orthodox Church Condemns Killing of more than 60 in Oromia amid Catholic Bishops’ Call for Reconciliation

The Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church condemned the killing of more than 60 people during two attacks in the Oromia Regional State on October 20 and 24. In a statement issued Monday, October 26, the General Assembly of the Holy Synod called on the government to protect Orthodox Christians and hold the perpetrators accountable.

The Synod reported that the Arsi Eparchy received news of the deaths following attacks in the Arsi Zone. According to the Church, 14 people were killed at Gora Silingo in Merti Woreda on October 20, and 46 others were killed at Tereta Chole Birbo in Sherka Woreda on October 24. The statement also noted that attackers burned the homes of 20 people and injured more than 20 others who are currently receiving hospital treatment.

Church leaders stated that these massacres, along with forced displacements and property damage, have worsened over time. The Synod described the attacks as incompatible with human rights and religious teachings.