Preparation for Epiphany Celebrations Disrupted: Over 70 Detained in South Ethiopia

ESG – OCP News Service – 31/12/2024

Addis Ababa- Ethiopia: In a troubling turn of events within Ethiopia before Theophany, more than 70 clergy and followers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church were apprehended in South Ethiopia Regional State, specifically in the District of Humbo within the Wola(y)ita Zone on Monday, December 23, 2024. The arrests took place after the area designated for the public celebrations of Epiphany (the Baptism of the Lord) for members of the Fisho Debre Kewakebt Abune Gebre Mefes Kidus Church was unlawfully transferred to the Kale Hiwot Church in the name of development.

The Diocesan Manager, Melake Selam Fr. Bokicha Enga, had originally contested the land seizure with the Wolaita Zone Chief Administrator’s Office on November 13, 2024. In response, the Administration assured that an investigation would be conducted and ordered the district that all activities in the area be suspended as of November 14, 2024. However, despite this directive, construction activities persisted, further aggravating the congregation.

Following a series of discussions with relevant zonal authorities to address the escalating tensions, a group of participants were subsequently detained after the conclusion of the meetings. The incident has sparked concerns and garnered attention as the Church community grapples with the ramifications of the land dispute and the subsequent arrests.

Sources:
Mahibere Kidusan Broadcast Service
Tewahedo Media Center
Priest Bokicha Enga