A prominent political officer of Ethiopia’s Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) was fatally shot in the sensitive Oromia region, according to reports from local media on Wednesday.
Bate Urgessa, known for his fervent activism and advocacy for Oromo rights, was forcibly taken from his hotel room late Tuesday, as per a family member.
His lifeless body was discovered by the roadside the following morning in his hometown of Meki, approximately 150 kilometers (90 miles) south of the capital Addis Ababa, reported Addis Standard, an online outlet.
The death of Bate has sparked widespread condemnation and prompted calls for a comprehensive investigation, including from the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission.
Daniel Bekele, a member of the commission, urged for a prompt, impartial, and full investigation by both the Oromia regional and Ethiopian federal authorities to hold perpetrators accountable.
Bate, a father of four, was released on bail last month after facing allegations of inciting unrest. Allegations have surfaced regarding the possible involvement of government security forces in his abduction and subsequent killing.
The Oromo Liberation Front has labeled the killing as a targeted attack and called for an immediate and impartial investigation by international human rights groups.
In a statement, the party expressed concern over the unwarranted and extrajudicial killing of conscious and active Oromo political and cultural figures throughout the years.
Bate, who served as a member and political officer of the OLF, belonged to one of the oldest political parties in Ethiopia, founded over half a century ago.
