TWO people have died following Saturday's explosion at a massive rally in Addis Ababa for Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Health Minister Amir Aman reported today.

More than 150 people were injured in the blast, several of them critically, Mr Aman added.

State broadcaster ETV reported nine police officials arrested, including the deputy head of Addis Ababa's police commission.

A man in the crowd had tried to throw a grenade at the new prime minister but was restrained by people around him.

Tens of thousands had gathered to celebrate a wave of democratic reforms under the young leader, who took office in April.

The attack was "cheap and unacceptable," said Mr Abiy, adding: "Love always wins. Killing others is a defeat. To those who tried to divide us, I want to tell you that you have not succeeded."

The ruling party blamed "desperate anti-peace elements" and vowed to continue its reform programme.