Addis Ababa, October 17, 2026 (FMC) — Public rallies in support of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) were held this morning in several cities and towns across the Amhara Region, with participants expressing solidarity with the military, backing government efforts to secure peace, and reaffirming their commitment to national unity and sovereignty.
The rallies took place in Gondar, Woldia, Sekota, Debre Tabor, Lalibela, Genda Wuha and other towns, drawing community elders, religious leaders, young people and other members of society. Participants voiced their desire for lasting peace and recognized the efforts of the ENDF and other security forces to maintain stability.
Through slogans and public messages, participants expressed respect for the sacrifices made by the national defense force and federal and regional security personnel. They also pledged support for government measures aimed at ensuring peace, stressing that Ethiopia’s unity would not be undermined by forces seeking to disrupt stability.
“The Defense Force is a symbol of our multinational identity,” participants declared, while expressing their determination to stand with the government in strengthening and developing the country.
Other messages emphasized the military’s role beyond Ethiopia’s borders, describing the ENDF as a force that contributes to peace across the region.
The rallies also underscored national interests, including Ethiopia’s aspiration for sea access. Participants declared, “We will move from the dam to the port,” and expressed their determination to help realize the country’s maritime ambitions.
They further voiced opposition to forces they said were aligning with Ethiopia’s historical adversaries to undermine the country’s peace, while pledging to uphold the country’s dignity through continued support for the defense force.
The morning demonstrations reflected participants’ stated commitment to national unity, lasting peace and the protection of Ethiopia’s sovereignty, alongside their support for the ENDF and other security institutions.