location: Bishoftu
notes: Thousands of Oromos gathered in Bishoftu to celebrate Irecha festivities marched in the streets of Bishoftu chanting slogans and crossing their arms above their heads to protest against the government agenda. Elements among the protesters reportedly attempted to take over the stage where prominent religious leaders deemed close to the government were addressing the gathering, leading to a scuffle with security officers who were blocking them and throwing of rocks and plastic bottles by some of the protesters. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the protesters, leading to a deadly stampede which left at least 55 people dead and dozens more injured. Opposition figures put the death toll to at least 678, and declared 'five days of rage' following the events. Immediately after the incident, protesters reportedly began blocking roads on the way to Hawassa and Ambo, and clashed with the police. Human rights organisations have called for an independent investigation into the violence.
target_text: location: Bishoftu, fatalities: 55