Conversely, seeking to block Sidama statehood would likely lead to mass protests by Sidama that could also turn lethal. Meanwhile, the top former federal official told Crisis Group statehood is a "fait accompli" because of its legal basis and the Sidama people's successful mobilisation. [43] Crisis Group Statement, "Restoring Calm in Ethiopia after High-profile Assassinations", 25 June 2019; Crisis Group Report, Managing Ethiopia's Unsettled Transition, op. Crisis Group telephone interviews, Southern Nations zonal officials, Sidama activists, Wolayta National Movement activist, June 2019. ____________________________________//__________________________________Editor's Note: This briefing, Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°146, was first published by Crisis Group here.

Source: Ethiopian News July 05, 2019 10:18 UTC