The Amhara Fano National Force (AFNF) – East Amhara Qetena (Menelik Command) has issued a strong denial of any involvement in the killing of a humanitarian worker in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, calling for an independent and transparent international investigation into the incident and renewed protection for civilians and aid personnel operating in the conflict-affected areas.
In a statement released on Sunday, June 30, the AFNF said it was “deeply saddened” to learn of the death of Ms. Mahelet Sitotaw Abera, a humanitarian staff member who, according to the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator for Ethiopia, was killed during an armed engagement in the Angot district of North Wollo Zone on June 20, 2025.
Speaking on behalf of its Menelik Command and allied units, the AFNF categorically denied responsibility for the incident, stressing that its forces were not involved in the events that led to Ms. Sitotaw’s death. The group emphasized that its operations are conducted with strict adherence to military discipline and with the stated aim of protecting civilians.
“We unequivocally condemn all acts of violence against civilians, including humanitarian personnel, and call for a swift, transparent investigation by international human rights organizations to ensure justice and accountability,” the statement read.
The group extended its condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Ms. Sitotaw and reiterated its opposition to all forms of violence targeting non-combatants and aid workers.
The statement comes amid growing international concern over the humanitarian situation in the Amhara region, where violence has escalated in recent months. The AFNF used the occasion to mark what it described as 26 months since the Abiy Ahmed-led government launched a “genocidal war” against the Amhara people. The group accused federal forces under Prime Minister Abiy and General Birhanu Jula of indiscriminate violence, including airstrikes, drone attacks, and execution-style killings that have caused mass civilian casualties.
“Numerous reports have implicated regime forces in deliberate attacks on refugee camps and shelters for internally displaced persons,” the AFNF claimed, describing the government as the “sole and prime perpetrator” of a pattern of violations that it says amount to genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity.
The group framed its own military campaign as a defensive struggle aimed at protecting the Amhara population from what it called an “existential threat” posed by the federal regime. It described its objective as replacing the current leadership with one that ensures peace, justice, and equality for all Ethiopians.
In its closing remarks, the AFNF reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of humanitarian workers and to continued coordination with international partners for the safe delivery of humanitarian aid to communities in need. The group also renewed its call for accountability and for impartial investigations into all acts of violence targeting civilians across the region.
“We continue to condemn all acts of violence against humanitarian workers and civilians at large,” the statement concluded, urging international actors to play a more active role in protecting civilians and ensuring justice in the Amhara region.
The statement was signed by Abebe Fentaw, Head of Public Relations for the AFNF Menelik Command.
