[4][5] It was the largest protest ever held at the time since the countries formation, an estimated 100,000 people participated including some Christians who showed solidarity.

(Saudi Arabia)Political analyst Stephen R. Goodwin states that since the foundation of Ethiopia by Menelik II, Muslim Ethiopians had been considered inferior to their Christian counterparts in the country, and their status was akin to that of the Calipahte's treatment of non Muslims under the Dhimmi system.

The Haile Selassie regime however upon returning to power revoked these rights granted by Italy leading to discontent.

[8] In April 1974, the rally was spearheaded by the Muslim committee leaders which included Dr. Ahmed Kellow, and Ababiya Abajobir among others.

Men are born free and equal rights!Prime minister of Ethiopia at the time Endelkachew Makonnen would respond positively to the protestors and arranged a meeting with Muslim leaders however it didn't bear much success aside from a symbolic gesture from the state.