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TPLF soldiers shoot at peaceful demonstrators in Sidama

Friday, 24 May 2002, Hawassa, Sidama -- It is learned that armed soldiers of the Tigrean minority rule of Ethiopia shot live ammunition on peaceful demonstration killing or wounding a dozen of people.

Eye witnesses reported seeing 12 to 20 bodies lying on the streets leading to the city, the capital of Sidama. More than 50 people are reported wounded. Students are also among the dead.

The incident happened today around 1 p.m. local time or 11.00 GMT. The peaceful protest by elders and the youth started on Monday 20 May when the latter demanded the withdrawal of the recent decision by TPLF leaders to uproot Sidama from their city and replace its administration under the government's central bureaucracy.

Gunfire heard

City residents report that there is continuous gunfire and armoured personnel is visible in the streets. The situation is described as fluid and dangerous.

Widespread unrest

There has been widespread disenchantment against the policies of the government to dislocate the local administration of Hawassa, also called Awassa, city. This policy goes back to 1994 when the TPLF/EPRDF regime created the so-called Southern nations, nationalities region which also made the same city its  political seat.

Total neglect, growing economic difficulties and famine conditions owing to the policies of the government are believed to contribute toward the current protest. Similar protests and crackdown is recently reported in Oromia.

The protest is continuing and the latest information will be posted on this site.

Appeal for help

In the meantime, concerned Sidama nationals around the world called for international community to urge the TPLF to stop the carnage of Sidamas.

© 2008 The Sidama Concern