A scheme to expand the administrative area of the capital has sparked Oromo nationalist anger
Peaceful protests at Ambo University and on campuses across Oromia turned into deadly clashes with security forces for days after federal police shot dead a 14-year-old student, Endale Desalegn, on 30 April. At least 17 people have died in the protests in the province nearest the capital, according to reliable local sources. The authorities say there have been only five deaths. About 25,000 people – including villagers from the surrounding area – took to the streets of Ambo, just 125 kilometres from Addis Ababa, after the first shooting. Demonstrators set fire to cars, the courthouse and a local bank as well as the residence of the West Shewa Zone Administrator.
End of preview - This article contains approximately 701 words.
