The decision came after fighters from the northern region of Tigray said they had captured the strategic cities of Disi and Kombolcha.
Guterres: Immediate cessation of the fighting
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, “is deeply concerned by the escalation of violence in Ethiopia and the recent declaration of a state of emergency.” “The stability of the country and the entire region is at stake,” he said in a note from the spokesman. Guterres renewed his call for an “immediate cessation of hostilities, unlimited humanitarian access to provide urgent assistance to save lives, and an inclusive national dialogue to resolve the crisis and create a basis for peace and stability.”
The Tigrinya fighters also said they could advance south into the capital, Addis Ababa. The state of emergency takes effect immediately and lasts for six months. The government can impose a curfew, stop transportation and travel services, and detain anyone suspected of having ties to a terrorist group indefinitely. Local administrations in some areas could be dissolved and a military command established.
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