People urged to combat terrorism

The Ethiopian government called on the public on Wednesday to rise up against terrorism in the country.

The call comes after an attack on a hotel during the Ethiopian New Year on 11 September in which four people were killed and 37 others wounded. The government blames rebel Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) which, however, has denied responsibility.

In a statement, the government said Ethiopia had been plagued by terrorism long before the international war on terrorism was launched following the 11 September attacks in the US.

“Addis Ababa and many other Ethiopian towns had experienced repeated terrorist attacks and incalculable damage was inflicted upon human life and property," the statement said.

“The terrorist acts against our country were committed under the guise of either political or religious belief. There were also violent activities masterminded by international terrorist organisations.

“Needless to say that the international coalition against terrorism only enhances our battle against the menace,” the statement added.