Title: Amhara genocide and Accusations, Collective Memory, and Political Narratives of Mass Violence in Contemporary Ethiopia: A Study of Conflict, Policing, and Accountability
Authors: Messaye Gubena², Daniel G. Kebede¹, Hagos Yisak Hailu², Shewit Kahsay Gebreslassie¹, Dereba Workineh Seboka³, tamerat Mulugeta¹, and Gadisa Adamu Mitiku³
Volume: 10
Issue: 8
Pages: 142-147
Publication Date: 2026/08/28
Abstract:
Contemporary Ethiopia has experienced profound political transformations accompanied by ethnic conflict, political polarization, competing historical narratives, and recurrent episodes of mass violence. Public accusations concerning the role of political leaders, security institutions, armed groups, and local actors have increasingly influenced collective memory, identity formation, and political mobilization. This study examines the relationship between public accusations, collective memory, political narratives, and perceptions of accountability in contemporary Ethiopia. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study utilizes content analysis of media reports, political speeches, public statements, policy documents, and scholarly literature to investigate how narratives of victimization, responsibility, and justice shape social and political dynamics. The findings reveal that competing narratives of historical grievance and political responsibility contribute significantly to polarization, distrust, and conflict escalation. The study further demonstrates that public accusations serve both as mechanisms for seeking accountability and as instruments of political mobilization. The absence of universally accepted truth-seeking mechanisms and independent investigations has intensified competing interpretations of violence and collective suffering. The study concludes that sustainable peace-building in Ethiopia requires evidence-based investigations, inclusive political dialogue, transitional justice mechanisms, institutional accountability, and independent historical inquiry capable of addressing contested memories and promoting reconciliation.