Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – (African Boulevard News) – Ethiopia’s federal army successfully regained control of the holy city of Lalibela on Thursday, after militiamen abruptly evacuated the area overnight. The city had been largely under the control of the militiamen, causing deep concern for the Ethiopian government and the international community.
The sudden departure of the militiamen came as a relief to the residents of Lalibela, who had lived in fear and uncertainty during their occupation. The iconic Orthodox churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major pilgrimage destination, were at the center of the conflict.
The militiamen’s evacuation follows intense negotiations between local religious leaders and the Ethiopian government. The discussions aimed to find a peaceful resolution and restore stability to the holy city. The Ethiopian army was deployed to secure the area and prevent further escalation of violence.
“The swift intervention of the federal army has brought relief to the people of Lalibela,” stated Dr. Samuel, a local religious leader. “We are grateful for their efforts in restoring peace and ensuring the safety of our cherished heritage.”
The Ethiopian government has emphasized the need to protect the cultural and religious significance of Lalibela and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed his commitment to the preservation of Ethiopia’s cultural heritage and called for unity and reconciliation in the country.
The international community has been closely monitoring the situation in Lalibela, with many expressing concern over the potential damage to its unique religious sites. UNESCO has welcomed the return of the Ethiopian army to Lalibela and called for the protection of the cultural heritage.
“The preservation of Lalibela’s churches is of paramount importance. They represent an invaluable cultural treasure for Ethiopia and the world,” said a UNESCO spokesperson.
While the departure of the militiamen brings a temporary respite, the underlying tensions that led to the occupation of Lalibela remain. The Ethiopian government is now faced with the challenge of addressing the root causes of the conflict and ensuring a lasting solution.
The restoration of peace and security in Lalibela is crucial not only for the city’s residents but also for Ethiopia’s tourism industry, which heavily relies on the pilgrimage sites and cultural heritage. The government must now focus on rebuilding trust among the local population and promoting dialogue to prevent further outbreaks of violence.
As Lalibela begins to heal from the recent turmoil, the world watches with hope that this holy city can once again stand as a symbol of peace, unity, and religious harmony in Ethiopia and beyond.
