Ethiopian pop star Teddy Afro calls for end to killings

By Fasikaw Menberu

Ethiopia’s popular singer Tewodros Kassahun, known by his stage name Teddy Afro, has urged the government to prevent “inhumane acts of violence against civilians”.

Ethnic-related unrest continues to be a challenge for the government. Only last week at least 31 civilians were killed by unknown militants in southern Ethiopia.

“I would like to strongly urge the government to take precautionary measures against such attacks,” Teddy wrote in a Facebook post.

Teddy enjoys an almost cult-like following in Ethiopia.

He is no stranger to controversy though. He raised the ire of the authorities in 2005 when he released an album that was seen as critical of the authorities in the wake of disputed elections.

His music was the anthem of the anti-government protesters.

This article was originally published by BBC News. [Photo: Getty Images]