Holy Synod of Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church condemns attacks on Christian communities in Oromia

The Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church condemned attacks against Orthodox Christian communities in the Arsi zone of the Oromia region. These attacks resulted in at least 60 deaths across two districts.

According to a statement from the Holy Synod, the killings occurred in the Merti district and the Shirka district. Reports indicate that more than 20 people were seriously injured and 20 homes were destroyed.

The Holy Synod described the killings as tragic cruelty that violates constitutional rights to life and religious freedom. The Church requested that the government issue a public condemnation, increase civilian protection, and bring those responsible to justice. The Synod also called for preventive measures from security forces to prevent future violence.

Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, the Catholicos of the East, expressed solidarity with the victims. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church ordered its churches and monasteries worldwide to hold services for the deceased following the Divine Liturgy. The Church also stated it would seek meetings with high-ranking government officials.