American Research Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

This study deals with the emerging dynamics of socio-religious controversies and conflicts in south western Ethiopia particularly in Jimma Zone. Religious controversies and conflicts have become topics of discussion among peoples across Ethiopia, particularly in Jimma. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine the emerging dynamics of socio-religious controversies and conflicts in Omo Nadda woreda. To this end, qualitative data gathering method was employed. A total of thirty six research participants: from the dwellers, religious leaders, administrative and police offices of woreda and zonal level were purposely selected and interviewed. Besides, FGDs and case study was conducted. The research participants were drawn from different social strata, gender, age, ethnic background, marital status and religious background. Moreover, relevant documents were reviewed. All the data generated through these data gathering tools were analyzed thematically and meanings were constructed out of them. The study examined and tried to identify different factors contributing to Muslim-Christian controversies and conflicts. Similarly, it explored how the emerging religious teachings undermined the healthy relationship between the inhabitants. The study further examined controversies over religious radicalization among different sections of the community and how the local authorities have been trying to resolve religious conflicts and mitigate religious controversies in south western Ethiopia.