Seven Armed Groups Form Alliance to Overthrow Abiy Ahmed

Seven Ethiopian armed groups announced the formation of the Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival on September 20, 2026. The coalition aims to overthrow the government of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and install an inclusive transitional administration guided by a charter to end internal wars and protect human rights.

The alliance brings together former battlefield enemies from the 2020-2022 civil war, including the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), the Amhara Fano National Movement, and the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA). Other members include groups from the Somali, Afar, and Benishangul-Gumuz regions. The coalition accuses the federal government of dictatorial rule, genocide, and pushing the country toward disintegration.

Government spokesperson Billene Seyoum dismissed the alliance, alleging the groups have long collaborated with financial support from Eritrea. The Ethiopian Media Authority further responded by declaring Tigray TV, which broadcast the announcement, an illegal entity for promoting insurgency. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated that the government does not fear for Ethiopia's sovereignty.

This political escalation coincides with worsening security across the country. The TPLF has declared the 2022 Pretoria peace deal effectively dead, and separate clashes in the Gambella region recently left at least 12 people dead. Additionally, a military drone strike targeted a U.S. humanitarian aid convoy in Sheraro, Tigray, prompting deep concern from the United Nations regarding the potential for a wider regional war involving Sudan and Eritrea.