ETHIOPIA: Protest leader calls for calm as death toll from rallies against PM’s Nobel laureate award rises to 16

A call for calm has been made to protesters following violent protests that erupted in Ethiopia against Nobel peace laureate and Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed.

The call was made by activist Jawar Mohammed after the death toll arising from clashes between his supporters and police in the capital and other cities rose from three to 16.

Addressing hundreds of his supporters at his house in Addis Ababa, Jawar said: “Open the blocked roads, clean the towns of barricades, treat those who have been injured during the protests and reconcile with those you have quarrelled with.”

Local authorities say protesters were killed in Adama town and one near the ancient city of Harar in the east while several other victims were injured.

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A local hospital official said three protesters were wounded and taken to hospital with gunshot wounds in Ambo, a town about 100km (60 miles) west of the capital, Addis Ababa, a hospital official said.

Reports say protests were sparked after Mr Abiy, showed support for Jawar Mohammed who raised concerns about his safety.

The demonstrations have reportedly witnessed the closure of major roads in cities across Oromia, including those linking the region to Addis Ababa.

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