ADDIS ABABA, OCTOBER 11, 2016 (CISA) –The Ethiopian government has declared a six months state of emergency in the country.

“The state of emergency was declared following a thorough discussion by the Council of Ministers on the loss of lives and property damages occurring in the country,” Prime Minister, Hailemariam Desalegn said October 9.

“We want to put an end to the damage that is being carried out against infrastructure projects, health centres, administration and justice buildings,” he added.

Protests have raged in the country since at least 52 people died on October 2 during the Oromo holy festival known as Irreechaa.