Amhara Fano People’s Organization (AFPO) has concluded its first regular assembly, a 12-day event marked by key decisions that signal the group’s growing ambition and evolving structure. The announcement was made by AFPO spokesperson Abebe Muluatu through his official social media page, declaring the assembly a complete success.
According to the statement, the AFPO has approved the formation of a modern, mechanized joint force that will operate across regional lines and be capable of regular military engagement. The force is designed to be settlement-free and mobile, with the goal of enhancing battlefield effectiveness and strategic reach. This marks a significant shift for AFPO, which has largely operated as a regional militia until now.
Additionally, the organization resolved to build a disciplined, far-sighted army under a centralized command structure. This move aims to reduce civilian suffering, increase organizational discipline, and establish lasting control over key territories. The statement emphasized a desire to expand the organization’s military and political influence while solidifying permanent control in contested areas.
On the topic of unity among various Amhara resistance factions, AFPO indicated that the issue remains under discussion. The organization left the door open to merging or cooperating with other Fano groups but clarified that this would depend on a redistribution of leadership positions to accommodate fighters from other fronts. Importantly, AFPO vowed not to initiate media attacks or military harassment against other Amhara factions unless provoked, presenting itself as measured and focused on long-term unity.
Regarding external relations, AFPO reaffirmed its commitment to the interests of the Amhara people, stating that it will continue to build partnerships with allied organizations and foreign countries—while drawing a firm red line against any group or government it identifies as hostile to Amhara interests. This more diplomatic tone suggests an effort to gain broader legitimacy both inside Ethiopia and abroad.
This assembly comes at a time of increased tension between AFPO and the newly formed Amhara People’s National Force (AFNF), a rival organization that has rapidly gained ground in several northern districts. Though both groups claim to fight for the same people, their growing ideological and leadership differences are creating friction, particularly over territorial control and influence. Analysts have begun warning of a potential turf war if unity efforts continue to stall. Some sources report that minor armed clashes have already taken place in border areas between AFPO- and AFNF-held zones, although neither organization has officially acknowledged such events.
Compounding the situation is a new claim by the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), which announced this week that it had killed 83 Fano militants in recent operations. While the statement did not specify whether the casualties were from AFPO, AFNF, or another faction, it has added to the already tense environment in the region. The federal army’s actions are likely to inflame tensions further, potentially pulling both Fano groups into escalated conflict with federal forces.
Further details from the assembly are expected to be released through a variety of media platforms in the coming days.
