This archive report was first published on 5 July 2019.
Published on July 5, 2019, a global think-tank warned that Ethiopia's regional frictions may worsen this month if the Sidama ethnic group declares a new semi-autonomous region.
The Sidama, making up about 5 percent of Ethiopia's 105 million people, plan to declare their own region on July 18 unless granted a referendum.
With Ethiopia already having nine regional states, mainly along ethnic lines, the Sidama seek similar autonomy, emboldened by a more open political climate and a weaker ruling coalition since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took office in April 2018.
However, this has also brought a surge of long-repressed rivalries between Ethiopia's 80 plus ethnic groups, forcing 2.4 million people out of their homes and killing hundreds, according to the U.N. and monitoring groups.
The Crisis Group criticized government neglect of the issue, saying that acceding to the Sidama could encourage other groups to follow suit and cause more chaos.
But blocking them could bring mass protests that may turn lethal in Ethiopia's volatile and violent climate.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has been widely praised for freeing prisoners and easing restrictions, but troubles in the regions have brought global concern for the future prospects of a regional powerhouse with one of the world's fastest-growing economies.
Abiy addressed the Sidama issue in parliament, urging patience and warning against 'unlawful' action, saying, 'The government will not bargain away the unity of Ethiopia.'
