Historic Kazanchis Razed: A Look at Abiy Ahmed Ali’s Authoritarian Actions in Ethiopia

By Mandefro Abebaw

The ongoing demolitions in Kazanchis have resulted in the displacement of thousands, highlighting the issue of government harassment in the area.

The mood in Kazanchis, a vibrant district of Addis Ababa, has shifted to one of despair as the Ethiopian government intensifies its demolition efforts, resulting in the displacement of countless residents. With a mere ten days’ notice, authorities have commenced the destruction of both residential and commercial buildings, instigating widespread fear within the community. Tragically, the shock from the announcement has reportedly contributed to the death of a long-standing resident due to a heart attack, amplifying the sorrow felt by the community. The absence of prior consultation and inadequate arrangements for relocation have left many feeling forsaken, prompting expressions of outrage regarding the government’s apparent indifference to their plight.

Amina Belay, a local resident, articulated the profound sense of loss felt by the community, stating, “I never thought I would see our community like this. We are losing our homes, our culture, and our way of life. The government is treating us like we don’t matter.” Her sentiments reflect a broader discontent among residents who are grappling with the implications of the demolitions on their lives and heritage. The rapid pace of the government’s actions has left many feeling powerless and anxious about their future.

As the demolition campaign continues, reports indicate a troubling rise in harassment and intimidation directed at those who dare to voice their opposition. Community leaders and activists have noted that government officials are increasingly arresting individuals who publicly express dissent, effectively suppressing free speech and exacerbating tensions within the neighborhood. This crackdown on dissent not only undermines the community’s efforts to advocate for their rights but also raises serious concerns about the state of civil liberties in the region.

Tesfaye Hailu, a local entrepreneur, expressed his strong disapproval of the recent suppression of dissent, stating, “This crackdown on dissent is unacceptable. Our struggle extends beyond the preservation of our homes; it encompasses the defense of our fundamental rights. We possess the inherent right to voice our opposition to this injustice.”

Following the demolitions, numerous displaced individuals have turned to local schools, which have been converted into makeshift shelters. This development has led to significant overcrowding and has placed immense pressure on the resources of these educational institutions, hindering their ability to carry out their primary functions. As a result, families find themselves lacking adequate support systems, with many being compelled to move to rural areas in Oromia, a stark contrast to the urban lifestyle they have long known.

A former resident of Kazanchis expressed deep sorrow over the situation, stating, “Being sent to rural Oromia feels akin to being exiled from our own lives. Many of us have deep roots in the city, having lived and worked here for generations. This forced displacement is fracturing our families and disrupting the fabric of our community.”

The actions undertaken by the government have prompted significant concerns regarding its dedication to safeguarding the rights of its populace. Advocacy organizations have expressed alarm that the current circumstances in Kazanchis exemplify a disturbing pattern of state-sanctioned intimidation and a blatant disregard for the sentiments of the public. This situation raises critical issues about the government’s accountability and its responsiveness to the needs of its citizens.

Leaders within the community are urgently calling for an immediate cessation of the demolition activities and are insisting that the government initiate a constructive dialogue with the affected residents. They are pushing for a just compensation scheme for those impacted by these actions, alongside a pledge from the government to honor the cultural and historical importance of the neighborhoods earmarked for redevelopment. Such measures are essential to ensure that the voices of the community are heard and respected.

As the situation in Kazanchis continues to develop, the local residents find themselves in a state of vulnerability, desperately seeking global awareness of their plight. Many are grieving the disintegration of their community, while the persistent threat of arrest hangs over those who oppose the demolitions. This crisis starkly illustrates the human toll associated with rapid urbanization and underscores the pressing need for policies that prioritize the rights and welfare of all citizens involved.