Ethiopian Catholic Bishops Call for Unity as Violence Against Civilians Escalates
Catholic bishops in Ethiopia have called on citizens to reject hatred and resist attempts to divide the country following renewed violence in several regions. In a public statement the bishops strongly condemned attacks on civilians and warned that such actions cannot be justified by religious belief cultural differences or political disputes. The appeal was issued as communities in different parts of the country continue to face insecurity and displacement. Church leaders urged Ethiopians to uphold unity and peaceful coexistence while emphasizing that violence against innocent people undermines both social stability and human dignity.
The bishops expressed particular concern about recent attacks reported in the Arsi Zone of the Oromia Region where armed militants have been accused of targeting local communities. According to the statement dozens of people were killed injured or abducted during assaults that took place toward the end of February. Homes and property were also destroyed forcing many families to flee their villages in search of safety. Cardinal Berhaneyesus who leads the Ethiopian Catholic bishops conference described the killings and destruction as deeply disturbing and said the Church stands in solidarity with those affected by the violence.
Church leaders stressed that the repeated attacks against civilians represent a serious moral and humanitarian crisis. They called on national authorities to take decisive action to protect citizens and uphold the rule of law across the country. The bishops emphasized that governments carry the responsibility of safeguarding human life and preventing further violence against vulnerable communities. They also warned that cycles of revenge and hostility could deepen divisions within society if leaders and citizens fail to pursue dialogue and reconciliation.
Reports from humanitarian groups and local observers indicate that violence in parts of the Oromia region has intensified in recent months. Investigations by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission have documented numerous cases of killings injuries and the destruction of homes and property. In one district alone dozens of members of the Orthodox Christian community were reported killed earlier this year bringing the number of victims in that area to more than one hundred sixty. Witnesses describe families fleeing their homes and entire communities living in fear as instability disrupts daily life and local economies.
The bishops noted that the unrest has had severe humanitarian consequences including the displacement of thousands of civilians and growing economic hardship for many families. Local communities have struggled to maintain normal life as insecurity and uncertainty spread through affected areas. Religious leaders warned that such conditions create long term challenges for peace and development if urgent steps are not taken to restore security and trust among communities.
In their message the bishops also emphasized the importance of cooperation among religious groups in responding to the crisis. They reaffirmed the commitment of the Catholic Church to work alongside the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council and other faith communities in promoting peace. By encouraging dialogue and solidarity between religious leaders the bishops hope to counter narratives that seek to inflame division or mistrust within society.
The bishops concluded their appeal by urging all Ethiopians and people of goodwill to resist hatred and reject efforts to deepen conflict. They called on citizens to stand together in defense of human life and dignity while seeking peaceful solutions to the challenges facing the country. According to Church leaders the future stability of Ethiopia depends on the willingness of its people to pursue reconciliation justice and mutual respect in the face of continuing violence.
