• According to reports circulating on social media, thousands are participating in a protest at the Addis Ababa Stadium during the morning hours of May 30.
• On May 29, The US Embassy in Addis Ababa released a notice warning of potential demonstrations occurring at the Meskel Square and the Addis Ababa Stadium areas during the morning hours on May 30.
• Addis Ababa Police approved the event and announced the closure of roads leading to Meskel Square during the morning hours of May 30.
• Reports further indicate that the demonstration is organized to denounce foreign intervention, and specifically the recently imposed US sanctions.

FORECAST: In light of continued international criticism over Ethiopia’s policies regarding the Tigray conflict, and the US economic sanctions imposed on May 23, it is likely that the government is orchestrating or at least facilitating the protest. In this context, the pro-government nature of the demonstration, coupled with the fact that it is occurring in a closed venue, suggests that it is likely to transpire peacefully. As police presence in the vicinity of the protest venue remains bolstered with road closures and checkpoints, traffic disruptions are highly expected during the morning and early afternoon hours. 

Those operating or residing in Addis Ababa on May 30 are advised to allot for traffic disruptions in the vicinity of Meskel Square and the Addis Ababa Stadium due to the ongoing protest.