The Ethiopian Prosperity Party, led by PM Abiy Ahmed, has been accused of targeting Gurage politicians and civil rights advocates, leading to demands for the formation of a Gurage National Regional State. Despite fulfilling all legal requirements outlined in the Ethiopian Constitution, the ruling party and regional leaders, including Ato Ristu Yirdaw and PM Abiy, have unlawfully and forcefully denied the establishment of the Gurage Regional State. This has been perceived as an attempt to weaken the Gurage movement, which has shown strength and organization over the past several years.

Numerous Gurage individuals, including politicians, journalists, civil advocates, and regional council members, have been unjustly detained. Notably, Ato Tarekegn Degife, a prominent Gurage politician and civil rights advocate, was recently detained for the second time by PM Abiy Ahmed and the Prosperity Party security forces. This arrest occurred shortly after the release on bail of other Gurage civil rights advocates who had been imprisoned. Ato Tarekegn, known for being a vocal representative of his people and challenging the unconstitutional actions of the ruling party, is innocent and has not committed any wrongdoing. Despite the government’s efforts to detain and impose a Command Post in the Gurage region, the resilient Gurage community persists in fighting back and working towards its constitutional right to self-administration and the formation of its own Regional State.

It is evident that the government lacks proof or evidence to justify the detention of Ato Tarekegn Degife. He is considered a hero within the Gurage community, admired for his courageous stance against the ruling party. Although these actions are unlawful, the Gurage movement will continue to grow stronger, with unwavering determination to fight for our own rights.