US urges Ethiopian security forces to use restraint

WASHINGTON, June 14, 2005 (AP) — The U.S. State Department called on the Ethiopian security forces Tuesday to avoid using excessive force in dealing with post-election violence.

Spokesman Sean McCormack also urged students, opposition supporters, government party members and political leaders to exercise restraint as well.

“We condemn election-related violence in Ethiopia,” McCormack said.

He said the U.S. expressed concern to the Ethiopian government over the death of Tesfaye Adane Jara, an opposition leader who had just been elected to Parliament.

He added that U.S. officials have been informed that an investigation has begun.

“We believe that that investigation should be done quickly, should be done in a transparent manner and those who are responsible for this act should be held accountable,” McCormack said.

He said the way to resolve post-election issues is through the political process.

“That’s what we have encouraged all sides to do,” he added.

Before McCormack spoke, a large number of demonstrators protested in front of the State Department, accusing President George W. Bush of supporting the government of Prime Minister Meles Zenawi.

Some demonstrators carried signs imploring Bush and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to “Break Your Silence.” Rhythmic chants repeated the same message.

One protester carried a picture showing bloody corpses.