Seven Ethiopian Groups Form Coalition to Challenge Abiy Government

Seven Ethiopian opposition and armed groups have announced the formation of a coalition aimed at removing the Prosperity Party-led government and establishing what they described as an inclusive transitional administration.

The new alliance, named the Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Coalition for Survival, announced its formation in a statement released on Sunday.

The coalition accused Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government of failing to address Ethiopia’s worsening political, economic and security problems. It cited continuing armed conflicts, civilian displacement, poverty, insecurity and the erosion of democratic and human rights.

The coalition comprises the Amhara Fano National Movement, Oromo Liberation Army, Tigray People’s Liberation Front, Ogaden National Liberation Front, Afar National Unity Revolutionary Front, Benishangul Peoples’ Liberation Movement and Gumuz Peoples’ Democratic Movement.

According to the statement, the groups agreed to coordinate their political and military activities against the federal government. Their stated objective is to remove the current administration and establish an inclusive transitional government.

The announcement brings together organizations representing several of Ethiopia’s major regions and communities. It could mark a significant development in the armed and political opposition to Abiy’s government, although the coalition has not disclosed details about its leadership, command structure or operational plans.

The Ethiopian government has not publicly responded to the announcement.

The coalition’s claims and the participation of each named organization have not yet been independently confirmed. Addis Standard reported the announcement⁠