This archive report was first published on 3 July 2020.
On July 2, 2020, Ethiopia was gripped by widespread unrest following the death of popular Oromo musician Hachalu Hundessa. The artist was shot dead in Addis Ababa, prompting protests that broke out just hours later.
As the situation spiralled out of control, 87 people, including four police officers, lost their lives in the days that followed. The violence also saw several journalists from the Oromia Media Network, owned by a local politician who was arrested on Thursday, being held by police.
The Ethiopian government has now pointed the finger at unnamed external forces and local opposition figures as it seeks to resume normalcy. The State believes that several players, including Egypt, may have had a hand in fanning the recent unrest, particularly in relation to the Grand Renaissance Dam.
Despite the ongoing crisis, Addis Mayor Takele Uma has urged people to resume work, calling for a return to normalcy.
