Return to Normalcy: Ethiopia’s Amhara Region Finds Relief as Peace Prevails in Major Cities

Multiple urban centers in Ethiopia’s Amhara region are experiencing a gradual return to normalcy after a period of conflict. Cities like Gondar and Debre Birhan are showing signs of improvement, marking a decrease in hostilities and a transition towards peace.

The command post overseeing the state of emergency in Debre Berhan and its surroundings initially prohibited Bajaj vehicles starting January 5, 2023, due to security concerns. However, a recent announcement from the command post revoked this ban on January 10, allowing Bajaj operators to resume their services in designated shifts between 12:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., signaling a positive shift in the region’s security situation.

Local residents have witnessed a restoration of normalcy in their daily lives. A Bajaj vehicle operator in Debre Birhan expressed, “We have resumed our services, and the city has returned to its previous calm.”

This newfound calm follows a period of unrest, during which residents reported instances of gunfire exchanges between state security forces and armed groups. A resident of Debre Birhan recounted a crossfire between government forces and armed groups, expressing concerns about the presence of armed factions in the city.

In a related account from Gondar, a resident described hostilities between government troops and the non-state armed group, Fano, during the weekend of Ethiopia’s Christmas festivities. The conflict escalated from the city’s periphery towards the urban core, resulting in civilian casualties and damage to properties and infrastructure.

Despite these challenges, individuals from Gondar reported that the city has returned to a state of normalcy, with critical services and facilities resuming operations. However, intercity transportation remains limited, with no incoming or outgoing transit observed.

On January 9, the Gondar city command post issued a statement addressing an attempt by an armed faction to disrupt the festival, affirming that the situation was contained through joint efforts. Bayuh Abuhai, deputy mayor of Gondar and deputy chairman of the city’s command post, emphasized the collaborative efforts between the Ethiopian National Defense Force and the security apparatus in reestablishing tranquility in the region.

The recent developments in the Amhara region paint a picture of hope and progress, as urban centers strive to recover from turmoil and steer towards a peaceful and stable environment for their inhabitants.

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