FULL TEXT: Ethiopia PM Confirms Death of Army Chief And Amhara region president [Video]

OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER

June 23, 2019 Addis Ababa Press Release

In the early evening of June 22, 2019 an orchestrated coup attempt occurred on the executive leadership of the Amhara Regional Government. During attacks in this coup attempt, H.E. Dr. Ambachew Mekonnen, President of the Amhara Regional Government and H.E. Ezez Wassie, Amhara Regional Government Office Advisor were killed from gunshot injuries sustained. The Regional Attorney General Migbaru Kebede has also sustained heavy injuries and is currently undergoing medical treatment.

The attempted coup and attacks on the leadership of the Amhara Regional Governrnent President was orchestrated by Brigadier General Asaminew Tsige who has been serving as the regional government’s Peace and Security Bureau head, in collaboration with other individuals. Many of the individuals involved in the attacks have been arrested and there is an ongoing operation to arrest the rernaining. It is to be recalled that Brigadier General Asarninew Tsige was given amnesty and released from imprisonment last year.

The situation in the Amhara Region is currently under full control by the Federal Government in collaboration with the Regional Government, which in accordance with the constitution is being led by the Vice President, Lake Ayalew. The Federal Government rernains comrnitted to ensuring national security and through the command of Prirne Minister Abiy Ahmed, various tasks are underway. In this regard, we encourage citizens to also be guardians of peace and support all efforts in holding suspected individuals accountable.

In relation to the coup attempt in Amhara region, the Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces, General Seare Mekonnen together with retired Major General Gezai Abera, were also killed yesterday night in Addis Ababa within the residence of General Seare. This fatal attack was committed by General Seare’s bodyguard who has also been arrested. A national committee has been formed to organize military funeral honors for General Seare Mekonnen and retired Major General Gezai Abera. The committee will update and provide further information as needed.

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