In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Ethiopia’s Catholic Bishops have issued a powerful condemnation of the recent deadly attacks on a parish, demanding urgent government action to protect its citizens. But here's where it gets controversial: while the bishops call for unity and peace, the recurring nature of these attacks raises questions about the effectiveness of current security measures. Is enough being done to safeguard religious communities in Ethiopia? The bishops’ statement, released by the Conference of the Ethiopian Bishops (CEBCE), leaves no room for ambiguity: “The Catholic Church unequivocally denounces these barbaric acts and urges the government to implement swift and robust legal actions to guarantee the safety and well-being of every citizen.” This plea comes in the wake of a series of tragic incidents that have shaken the nation to its core.
The bishops also offered prayers for the souls of those who perished, stating, “May those who lost their lives in these horrific events find eternal peace in the arms of the Creator.” Their message extended beyond the Catholic community, as they expressed profound sympathy to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, and all Ethiopians affected by the violence. “We stand in solidarity with the grieving families and pray for divine comfort during this time of immense sorrow,” they added.
And this is the part most people miss: the attacks are not isolated incidents. According to a report by the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) and corroborated by APA News, over 25 civilians were brutally killed in the East Arsi Zone of Oromia Regional State in October 2025 alone. The majority of the victims were Christians, allegedly targeted and executed by unidentified gunmen. The report further detailed that five individuals were killed in the Honqolo Wabe (Siltana) district, while another incident in Hela Zibaba Kebele, Shirka Woreda, left three civilians dead and four abducted in what witnesses described as a religiously motivated attack.
These events have sparked widespread outrage and concern, with many questioning the motives behind the violence and the government’s response. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Could these attacks be a symptom of deeper societal divisions, or are they the work of isolated extremist groups? The bishops’ call for protection highlights the urgent need for dialogue and collective action to address the root causes of such atrocities.
As we reflect on these tragic events, it’s crucial to remember the human cost of such violence. Jude Atemanke, a Cameroonian journalist with a deep commitment to Catholic Church communication, brings these stories to light, reminding us of the importance of amplifying voices that might otherwise go unheard. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea, Jude currently serves as a journalist for ACI Africa, ensuring that these critical issues reach a global audience.
The bishops’ statement is not just a call for justice; it’s a plea for humanity. As we grapple with the implications of these attacks, let’s engage in meaningful conversations about how we can foster peace and protect the most vulnerable among us. What are your thoughts on the government’s role in preventing such violence? Do you believe interfaith dialogue could be part of the solution? Share your perspectives in the comments below—let’s keep this important conversation going.
