Seven rebel groups form alliance

The Fano militia, Oromo Liberation Army, Tigray People's Liberation Front and four smaller groups have announced the Alliance for Survival to challenge Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government.

Groups accuse PM of war and genocide

The alliance claims Abiy Ahmed's government has presided over war, genocide, mass destruction and poverty, putting Ethiopia at risk of disintegration.

“war, genocide, mass destruction and utter poverty”

Coalition spans half of Ethiopia

The seven groups operate across six of Ethiopia's twelve regional states: Amhara, Oromia, Tigray, Somali, Afar and Benishangul-Gumuz, each with distinct ethnic populations.

Former enemies now working together

The Fano militia fought alongside federal forces against the TPLF during the Tigray war but turned against the government less than a year later after refusing disarmament orders.

Analysts doubt lasting cooperation

Experts warn the groups are unlikely to share weapons or maintain unity, as today's allies can become tomorrow's enemies depending on shifting political interests.

“your ally today can be your enemy tomorrow”

Coalition demands democracy and autonomy

The alliance spokesman says the groups want communities to have democracy and self-determination, claiming the government has violated peace agreements and failed to end ethnic oppression.

“democracy and to exercise their right to self-determination”

Government expresses confidence

Abiy's government says the groups were already collaborating and expressed faith in Ethiopia's defensive capabilities, with the PM telling lawmakers he has no fear for the country's sovereignty.

“we do not have an iota of fear regarding Ethiopia's sovereignty”