Despite being outside of the country, Abiy’s chief of staff tweeted a strong condemnation of the killings and acts of violence against innocent citizens.
“These cowardly attacks represent a grave concern to the unity & solidarity of our people & will be met with appropriate response,” the tweet added.
The PM is in Saudi Arabia where he attended a summit with the Eritrean leader Isaias Afwerki, both leaders signed a peace agreement in the presence of the Saudi king and the United Nations Secretary-General.
Thousands of people are said to be fleeing to the capital Addis Ababa given that the violence is said to have occured largely in the outskirts particularly in Burayu in the Oromia region. Deputy mayor of the capital has confirmed that displacements and says plans are afoot to give necessary support.
The Reporter news outlet confirmed ethnic undertones to the incidents reporting that the attacks by organized mobs, which began since Thursday, have primarily targeted ethnic Gamos, Wolayitas, Guraghes & Siltes.
