AFPO CONDEMNS AFNF FOR ‘BETRAYAL’ IN PRESS RELEASE
Addis Ababa, July 16, 2025 — The Amhara Fano People’s Organization (AFPO) has formally denounced a breakaway faction of the Amhara Fano National Force (AFNF), accusing it of orchestrating a series of internal attacks that threatened both leadership and rank‑and‑file members. In a statement released Tuesday evening, AFPO characterized the actions as a direct challenge to the broader Amhara struggle and warned of potentially serious consequences for unity within the movement.
According to AFPO’s account, the most recent incident took place on July 15 in Gondar’s Gela Salare district, where nine senior commanders and multiple fighters were reportedly summoned to what was presented as a strategic meeting. Upon arrival, they were detained by operatives identifying themselves as part of the AFNF’s “Northern Amhara Region Command.” AFPO leadership says the detainees were subjected to harsh treatment before eventually being released under unclear circumstances.
The press release further recounts earlier attempts by this rogue faction to eliminate key sub‑army leaders—efforts AFPO says were only thwarted through the intervention of loyalist operatives. AFPO stresses that these internal confrontations have diverted critical resources and attention away from the organization’s primary objective: confronting systemic threats facing the Amhara people.
Analysts familiar with both groups note that tensions have simmered since AFNF’s formation, driven in part by disputes over command authority, strategic priorities, and relationships with federal authorities. While both AFPO and AFNF share the goal of securing greater protections and political recognition for Amhara communities, AFPO’s latest release suggests that fractures may now risk undermining joint operations and any future negotiations.
In closing, AFPO’s leadership called on all members to reaffirm their commitment to the struggle for systemic change and to reject any orders or initiatives that pit Amhara against Amhara. They also indicated that internal disciplinary measures are being considered against those responsible for the recent incidents, and that traditional elders in Gondar have begun back‑channel efforts to restore cohesion.
