Ethiopians protest interference from US

By Addis Getachew

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AA) - Hundreds of thousands of Ethiopians of all walks of life took to the streets to protest what they described as interference by the US administration.

In the capital Addis Ababa, the protesters filled the city's old stadium and the surrounding streets in a well-organized, peaceful demonstration dubbed Voices of Freedom and Sovereignty.

Last week, US President Joe Biden cemented his administration's anti-Ethiopia stance with impossible calls that angered the vast majority of Ethiopians.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's administration strongly denounced the visa restrictions imposed by the Biden administration against unnamed officials and army members, and threatened stronger measures, including the suspension of security aid.

“We demand the US to rethink its stance on Ethiopia,” “We will never kneel down for external pressure,” "We elect our leaders,” and “It is my dam” were some of the messages displayed on placards at the rally.

The protesters in contrast displayed the photos of Turkish, Chinese, and Russian presidents in a show of praise and respect.

A rally will be held on Tuesday in front of the US Embassy in Addis Ababa where US citizens of Ethiopian origin will submit a written protest to the US ambassador.