By HornCurrent News Desk | July 30, 2025
JIGJIGA – The Somali Regional Government has strongly denied allegations that it designated administrative districts on land belonging to the Oromo people, dismissing the claims as politically motivated and misleading.
In an exclusive interview with Germany-based DW Radio, Somali Regional State Communication Minister Mohamed Adan stated:
“There is no reason for us to claim land that belongs to the Oromo, nor to incite conflict. We designated districts only within the Somali Regional State.”
Minister Mohamed firmly rejected the narrative promoted by Oromo activists and recent protest movements, which allege that the Somali Region is attempting to assert control over Oromo-administered territories.
Addressing statements made by Oromo political parties and commentators, he remarked:
“Unless these groups are driven by a political agenda, the public knows the truth and purpose behind our actions.”
He added:
“Those who are protesting and making noise (Oromo activists and demonstrators) are not people interested in Ethiopia’s peace, progress, or the brotherhood between our peoples. They are exploiting this issue for political gain, but the public is well aware of the reality.”
When asked whether the restructuring could spark fresh ethnic conflict between the Somali and Oromo communities, Minister Mohamed responded:
“There is nothing that justifies conflict or threatens the peaceful coexistence and shared culture of the two peoples.”
He clarified that the creation of the 14 newly designated districts was based on thorough studies and demographic assessments. The proposal, he said, was presented to the Somali Regional Parliament, where it was approved after due deliberation with local administrative bodies and city councils.
The statement comes amid growing tension in the region, as protests continue across both Somali and Oromo zones, following the restructuring decision by the Mustafe Omar administration.
Source: DW Radio | Translated by HornCurrent.com
