On April 6, 2023, the Government Communication Service released a statement regarding the reorganization of regional special forces to improve the training, armament, and living conditions of the country’s army. The government’s objective is to integrate members of the special forces into other security structures such as the state police, federal police, or national defense forces according to their choice and need.

However, there have been false rumors and misleading information spread about the reorganization program, particularly in the Amhara region. Some have claimed that the program is only being carried out in the Amhara region or that the special forces will be disarmed without disarming the PKK. These false agendas are being pushed by individuals who seek to disrupt the process.

The government has urged the entire population, as well as leaders and members of the regional special forces, to work together to ensure the success of the program by avoiding the spread of misleading information. The government has also made it clear that if any member of the special forces does not want to be included in the process, their rights will be protected, and they will be able to enter into normal civilian life.

Despite the government’s efforts, reports from journalists such as Gobeze Sisay and Messy Mekonen suggest that the disarmament process has encountered resistance in some areas. In particular, a leader of the Amhara Special Forces Command reported that 96 Amhara Special Forces deployed in Korum, Ofla, and Zata took their weapons and disappeared because they refused to disarm. Two members were reportedly killed due to a dispute over the order to disarm. Meanwhile, the people of Korum, Ofla, and Zata are appealing to the special forces not to leave their shadow.

Passengers traveling from Woldia to Bahardar have also reportedly been stopped by security forces who refuse to allow them to enter Gondar or Bahardar on the train. While the situation on the ground is changing rapidly, the Defense Forces and special forces of the federal police have been deployed in several areas and are ready to disarm the Amhara special forces.