'If I go back to Ethiopia, maybe they will kill me'

Ethiopia has been marred by violence in recent weeks as government security forces have killed dozens of people amid protests over the nation's decision to take over lands in the Oromia region. Protesters are calling for more freedom and an end to government brutality.

"If I go back to Ethiopia, maybe they will kill me," Lilesa said. At a news conference after the race, he added that as a member of the Oromo tribe who has relatives in prison, he could not stay quiet on the Olympic stage, no matter the consequences.

Political protests have a long history at the Olympics but are officially banned. Government spokesman Getachew Reda dismissed his concerns.　

"Though it is impossible to express a political stance at (the) Olympic Games, the athlete will be welcomed while returning home along with other members of the Ethiopian Olympic squad," he told state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporation.