The Orthodox Church in Ethiopia has called off demonstrations planned for Sunday following a meeting with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. The protests followed the creation of a breakaway synod by Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church bishops in Oromia. Breakaway bishops accused the Church of discrimination and linguistic and cultural hegemony, saying congregations in Oromia are not served in their native language, claims rejected by the patriarchate. At least 30 people have been killed in protests in the past week and social networks had been restricted. It follows claims by breakaway bishops the church was discriminating against them over the use of their own language in OromiaOrthodox leaders have long complained of persecution, including the burning of churches several years ago, and relations with the government have been tense in the past, including over the Tigray conflict.

Source: Ethiopian News February 12, 2023 08:54 UTC