October 29/2006

Ethiopians have lived in harmony as far as religious differences are concerned and the latest violence open religious grounds that have led to the death of many are to be attributed to the EPRDF regime's deliberate action of dividing the people along ethnic and religious lines. The massacre of Christians in Assebot in the past is a good example.

The recent spate of violence happened around d Jimma and has led to the burning of three churches/St. Gabriel in Chegu, St. Gabriel in Bora and Abune Gebre Menfes Kidus in Beshesha/ and the deaths of many Christians in a brutal way. Some of those brunt or brutally hacked to death by so called followers of the Wahabite sect since late September are Getahaun Bekele, Madam Yewegnesh Yihunkaw, Desta Tadesse,Madam Aselefu Liben,Madam zena Tilahun/ all from Dedesa Wereda/, Madams Alemnesh Debeal,Mihret Reda, priests Getnet Wolde and Kefyalew Yigletu, Ato Tesfaye Tekle and Ato Abiyu Beyene. The cadres of the regime have been accused of fanning religious differences while giving no protection to the Christians assaulted by the fanatic groups.

SOCEPP firmly condemns the manipulation of religious differences to pit the people against one another and to serve the devious and narrow interests of the regime in place. This minority regime is known for its ethnic politics and the practice of dividing the people along ethnic and religious lines to impose its control over all. At the same time, SOCEPP condemns the foreign hands involved in provoking and supporting the anti-Christian rampage. Ethiopians should also refrain from being victims of these divisive plots.

The right of the people to practice any religion is basic. Attempts to force one's religion on others cannot be tolerated as it is a gross violation of rights.