Role played by public in controlling violence huge, says GCAO

Addis Ababa, January 4, 2016 (FBC) – The role played by the public in controlling the violence that had occurred in some parts of Oromia and Amhara Regional States was huge, Getachew Reda, Government Communication Affairs Office (GCAO) Minister, said.

Getachew gave explanation on current issues to public relations heads and representatives of media institutions today.

Regarding the conflict that arose between Amhara and Qimant community in north Gondar zone, Amhara Regional State, the minister said it was resulted from delay in border demarcation for the question of the Qimant people for getting identity.

Currently, the problem is fully under control and reconciliation is underway to restore their previous brotherly relationship, he said

Similarly, the violence that had occurred in some zones in Oromia Regional State is under control, Getachew said.

Students have returned to schools and other people to their jobs, he said, lauding the efforts made by the public in stabilizing the violence.

“The role played by the public in controlling the violence and maintaining peace was huge,” he said.

The public made tremendous peace restoration works particularly in areas where there was no quick deployment of government security force by establishing militia and rallying alongside the security forces, he said.

Responding properly to good governance questions arising from the public, more efforts should be carried out to build the public’s tradition of safeguarding and promoting peace when problems occur, he said.