Abiy had previously urged church members to resolve their differences and stated that the government would not get involved. He, an ethnic Oromo and a Protestant Christian, was however accused by some followers of undermining the church and siding with the breakaway synod. The widespread tension had resulted in the suspension of access to social media platforms including TikTok, Facebook and Telegram since Feb. 9. No official statement was made when internet access to social media was suspended and there has been no word yet on when it will be back. Social media was being used to mobilize people to attend a rally planned by the church to take place on Sunday and which the government had issued a warning against.

Source: Ethiopian News February 16, 2023 21:41 UTC