ADDIS ABABA–Amnesty International has accused the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) in Ethiopia of committing gang rape, sexual slavery, and other human rights violations against women and girls in the Oromia province, where armed conflict is currently taking place. In a new report, Amnesty International highlights the lack of protection for victims of these atrocities, stating that “No one has rescued me against gang rape, sex slave and widespread displacement that took place in Oromia province in Ethiopia.” The organization has documented at least 10 cases of sexual violence in the Kellem and Wallago provinces, which are known strongholds for OLA fighters. The ongoing conflict between OLA and the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), Oromia Special Police, police in Oromia, and militia groups has resulted in a dire situation for civilians in the region. Amnesty International expresses deep concern over the limited access to information and communication in Oromia, which has been imposed by the Ethiopian government since 2019. This has hindered the ability of human rights organizations to investigate and report on the human rights abuses taking place. The organization calls on OLA to immediately cease their attacks on civilians and take responsibility for the human rights violations committed by their fighters. They also urge the Ethiopian government to conduct thorough and trustworthy investigations into the allegations of sexual violence in conflict areas. In contrast, a report published by the Associated Press quotes OLA leader Kumsa Diriba denying the allegations against his fighters and claiming that their actions are not directed towards civilians.
