Ethiopia Security and Political Update

Overview

Over the past week, Ethiopia has experienced a surge in both peaceful and violent events, reflecting the country’s complex and evolving security and political environment. Key developments include widespread health-worker protests, a notable increase in kidnappings, intensified military operations against militia groups in Amhara, renewed cross-border clashes in Tigray, and ongoing tensions in Oromia.

Health-Worker Protests

Nationwide demonstrations by health professionals in Addis Ababa, Jimma, Dire Dawa and other urban centres highlighted deep frustration over stalled salary talks, understaffing, and poor working conditions. Protesters demanded immediate wage increases, better equipment, and enhanced non‐monetary benefits. In response, the federal government warned of disciplinary action against unauthorized strikes while unveiling a pilot program to digitize medical‐supply tracking in public hospitals.

Surge in Abductions

Abduction incidents have spiked since the beginning of 2025, especially in Amhara and Oromia regions. Both politically motivated and criminal kidnappings have sown fear among rural communities, forcing many to avoid night‐time travel and to cluster in larger villages for safety. Local security forces, hampered by limited resources, have struggled to investigate and resolve these cases.

Drone Strikes and Counterinsurgency in Amhara

The Ethiopian military has escalated its use of armed drones and ground offensives against Fano militia positions in East and West Gojjam zones. These operations have caused casualties among fighters and civilians alike, with reports of damage to health facilities and ambulances. The scale and intensity of these strikes have raised concerns about the safety of non-combatants.

Cross-Border Clashes in Tigray

Fighters from the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) rebel faction have resumed incursions along the Eritrea–Tigray border, engaging Ethiopian forces near Sheraro and Adi Quala. These skirmishes underscore the region’s lingering volatility and the risk that external support to armed groups could reignite wider conflict if de-escalation measures are not pursued.

Continued Tensions in Oromia

Despite a January peace agreement with the Oromo Liberation Front (OLA/OLF-Shene) faction, targeted violence persists in the Adama and Bale zones of Oromia. Reports of arbitrary detentions, property seizures, and sporadic armed attacks illustrate the fragility of the local peace and the need for sustained dialogue and rule-of-law enforcement.

Conclusion and Political Implications

Ethiopia’s multifaceted security challenges—ranging from protest movements and rising kidnappings to aggressive counter-insurgency campaigns and border clashes—call for coordinated action by federal, regional, and international stakeholders. Critical priorities include securing humanitarian corridors, holding rights violators to account, and rebuilding trust with affected communities.

At the same time, the political landscape is shifting ahead of national elections scheduled for June 2026. The National Election Commission has announced the formal deregistration of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), citing its failure to convene a required general assembly. Once the dominant force in Ethiopian politics for decades, the TPLF will be excluded from the upcoming polls unless this decision is overturned. This move adds urgency to efforts for inclusive dialogue, legal clarity, and credible electoral preparations if Ethiopia is to achieve lasting stability and democratic legitimacy.