Fano Commander Mesresha Sete Lays Down Arms
Fano commander Mesresha Sete has surrendered in the Amhara region of Ethiopia. Mesresha is one of the top Fano militia commanders. Since 2023, Fano militias have been fighting the Ethiopian security forces.
Fano commander Mesresha Sete was originally based in Gojjam zone of the Amhara region. He led Amhara militias against Tigray forces during recent Tigray war. After the end of Tigray war in November 2022, the Ethiopian security forces tried to disarm Fano militias. Fano militias refused to lay down arms and launched an armed movement against government. Mesresha Setit went into hiding. In 2024, he reappeared. But his Fano group in Gojjam had been taken over by other Fano commanders like Zemene Kassie and Eskinder Nega. Zemene Kassie did not allow Mesresha to gain a foothold in Gojjam.
Mesresha Sete could not establish his own Fano group in Wollo or Shewa zones after his expulsion from Gojjam. He joined Amhara Fano People’s Organization (AFPO) led by Eskinder Nega and Mekataw. During recent Aba Nadew operation by Amhara Fano National Force (AFNF), Mesresha accused AFNF of collaborating with TPLF. Wearing ENDF’s uniform, he released a video full of allegations against other Fano groups.
On Saturday, Amhara Fano People’s Organization (AFPO) issued a statement. It suspended Mesresha Sete and Mesfin Abate from the organization. On Sunday, Mesresha Sete laid down arms and surrendered to Amhara regional government.
Fano commander Mesresha Sete did not yield significant influence in Fano’s movement after his expulsion from Gojjam. His decision to surrender is not likely to be a huge blow to Fano militias.
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