The Amhara Fano forces in Shewa, led by Meketaw Mamo, have successfully captured Merhabete district. This marks a significant shift in the ongoing armed struggle in the Amhara region, as Merhabete’s location gives it strategic value to the forces and deepens tensions between AFPO and other non-AFPO factions, notably Fano-Gojjam.
Merhabete is located in the Semien Shewa Zone of the Amhara Region, bordering Ensaro to the south and Mida Woremo to the north. The Jamma River serves as a natural boundary within the district, making it a defensible position. Its location is crucial for controlling movement between different areas in the region, and historically, Merhabete has been a stronghold of Amhara resistance.
Infighting has reportedly escalated within Amhara Fano divisions in Shewa, including Atse Dawit, Nadew, and Rambo. A particularly concerning development involves Tadesse Haile, a prominent figure in Fano-Gojjam, who is reportedly being targeted by Meketaw Mamo’s forces. Tadesse Haile is believed to be located near Ensaro, in close proximity to Merhabete. According to a leaked phone call recording attributed to Natnael Mekonnen, Tadesse Haile expressed fears for his safety, stating that he was attempting to flee back to Gojjam through captured Merhabete and that his life was “in danger.”
The capture of Merhabete by Fano-Shewa forces under Meketaw Mamo represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle in the Amhara region. However, the deepening divisions within Fano threaten to undermine the movement’s cohesion. If internal conflicts persist, they could weaken Fano’s ability to resist external threats and coordinate military operations effectively.
The Ethiopian government may respond with intensified military operations to reclaim the district, potentially escalating the conflict further. Meanwhile, efforts to unify Fano factions under AFPO continue to face resistance from independent groups, particularly in Gojjam.
As the situation evolves, observers will be closely monitoring whether Fano leaders can bridge their differences or if internal strife will lead to further fragmentation within the movement.
