Tens of Thousands Rally in Bahir Dar to Back Ethiopia’s National Defense Force

Addis Ababa, October 27, 2026 (FMC) — Tens of thousands of residents took to the streets of Bahir Dar, the capital of Ethiopia’s Amhara Region, on Tuesday in a mass demonstration expressing solidarity with the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) and other security agencies, as public rallies supporting the country’s armed forces continue across Amhara and other regional states.

The rally brought together residents from Bahir Dar and surrounding areas, including women, young people, elders, government employees, regional officials, religious leaders and other sections of society.

Rally goers voiced support for the military’s role in safeguarding Ethiopia’s sovereignty, protecting public security and preserving national unity.

Bahir Dar’s First Deputy Mayor, Goshu Endalamaw, described the ENDF as a bulwark of national sovereignty and a symbol of Ethiopia’s unity, saying the force had earned broad public support through its courage and commitment to the country.

He said the military had built a distinguished record by repelling external threats and defeating internal forces seeking to undermine the country’s stability.

He added that the ENDF continued to counter efforts to obstruct Ethiopia’s development and disrupt the peace of its people.

The deputy mayor said the large public turnout demonstrated the city’s respect for the armed forces and its determination to stand behind them. He stressed that residents would sustain their support, assuring the military that it was not alone in carrying out its national responsibilities.

Messages delivered during the rally emphasized solidarity with the ENDF and federal and regional security forces, while expressing support for government measures to establish peace.

Participants also rejected attempts to undermine national unity and called for collective efforts to strengthen and develop the country.

The slogans portrayed the Defense Force as a source of national pride and a symbol of Ethiopia’s multinational identity. Demonstrators expressed gratitude for the sacrifices made by military personnel and other security forces, pledging to stand with them in defending the country and raising its flag high.

The rally also reflected broader national aspirations, with messages linking Ethiopia’s development ambitions to its pursuit of reliable maritime access.

Participants declared that the country would move “from the dam to the port,” connecting the protection of national sovereignty with the pursuit of economic development and wider strategic interests.

Tuesday’s demonstration in Bahir Dar forms part of a continuing wave of public rallies held over the past week in Amhara Region and other regional states to express support for the ENDF and security institutions.

The gatherings underscore the public messages of solidarity with the armed forces, national unity and the government’s efforts to maintain peace and stability.