By Horn Africa News
Amhara Region, Ethiopia – The armed Amhara group known as FANO has claimed a significant victory in its ongoing battle against the Ethiopian federal government, announcing that more than 1,000 government soldiers have defected to their side amid escalating violence in the region. In addition, the group reported the capture of over 500 Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) personnel during fierce clashes last week.
According to a statement released by FANO’s leadership, the defections and captures took place during a series of coordinated engagements in various zones of the Amhara region, including North Gondar, South Wollo, and parts of Gojjam. The statement described the development as a “turning point” in their resistance, alleging that morale within the federal army is deteriorating due to what they described as “unjust policies and political repression” by the central government.
While FANO’s claims have not been independently verified, footage shared on social media purportedly shows groups of uniformed soldiers being escorted by armed fighters, sparking both celebration among FANO supporters and alarm within other segments of Ethiopian society. The Ethiopian government, as of the time of this report, has not issued an official response or comment regarding the allegations of mass defection and the capture of its troops.
FANO, initially established as a community-based militia during past conflicts in northern Ethiopia, has evolved into a more organized armed group. It claims to be defending the interests of the Amhara people, who it says have been politically marginalized and left vulnerable to attacks by both federal forces and other ethnic militias. Tensions between the group and federal authorities surged after the disbanding of regional special forces in 2023, which FANO and other Amhara nationalists viewed as a move to weaken the region’s self-defense capability.
In recent months, the Ethiopian federal government has launched several military operations in Amhara in an attempt to disarm FANO and reassert control. These operations have resulted in heavy fighting, displacement of civilians, and numerous reports of human rights violations from both sides.
The latest developments have deepened fears of a widening conflict in Ethiopia, a nation already plagued by a patchwork of ethnic-based violence, political instability, and a fragile peace process following the Tigray war. Analysts warn that the growing militarization of regional groups like FANO may pose an existential threat to the federal structure of Ethiopia, especially if other ethnic-based groups begin to emulate similar tactics.
International human rights organizations and regional peace observers have expressed concern over the escalating violence. Several have called for immediate de-escalation, independent investigations into alleged abuses, and the urgent resumption of inclusive political dialogue involving all key stakeholders.
“There is a real risk that Ethiopia could descend into another cycle of prolonged civil war unless efforts are made to address the root causes of ethnic grievances and governance challenges,” said one regional analyst who asked to remain anonymous for security reasons.
Meanwhile, humanitarian organizations are warning of an impending crisis in parts of Amhara, where ongoing conflict has disrupted access to food, medical supplies, and other essential services. Tens of thousands have been displaced, with many seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters or fleeing to neighboring regions.
As Ethiopia braces for what could become another prolonged period of internal strife, the situation in Amhara will likely remain a focal point for both domestic and international attention.
