Ethiopia is plagued by armed conflicts in the country’s two most populous regions: Oromia and Amhara. Facebook posts claim Oromia Media Network (OMN), a US-based broadcaster, reported that a former Ethiopian peace minister as well as a popular singer had joined the rebel Oromo Liberation Army (OLA). The posts also contain links to videos that are purportedly a part of the news reports. However, the claims are false: OMN denied publishing the alleged reports, which AFP Fact Check found to be fabricated. The YouTube links are also old and misrepresented.

“Breaking news,” reads a Facebook post published on April 23, 2025, in Afaan Oromoo. “OMN reported that Taye Dandea has joined the rebels in the jungle.”

A screenshot with a picture of Taye Dandea, the former peace minister, adds that he has now joined the OLA and has “sent a message from the jungle”. In the picture, Taye is wearing braids, a popular style with OLA fighters.

The other half of the screenshot shows a picture of a news presenter from Oromia Media Network (OMN), an independent television station broadcasting from Minnesota in the United States.

A link in the post leads to a YouTube video of a telephonic interview with Taye, who says Oromia is experiencing a “war situation”.

“People cannot move freely, and all rights have been suspended. Brothers who were struggling for justice are now killing each other,” Taye says.

He also criticises the government for excluding his ministry from peace talks held with the OLA...

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