Abbay Media news
Yassin Ibrahim
The prisoners of conscience (political prisoners and journalists) that were freed per decision of the Central Committee of EPRDF (Ethiopian People Revolutionary Democratic Front) are now being taken back to prison, it is reported.
Journalist Temesgen Desalegn, who has invited freed political prisoners and journalists at his house was also arrested by police. The famous journalist and international award winner Eskinder Nega is said to have been taken in government’s custody. Andualem Aragie, the man who has been advocating for democracy, freedom, peace and reconciliation since his release, is said to be abducted by security forces.
Befekadu Hailu, Tte blogger, who has been going door to door interviewing every released political prisoner and journalist and connecting them with the people, is also taken away by police, sources said. Bloggers Zelalem Workagegnehu and Mahlet Fantahun are also reported as being in detention. General Tefera Mamo, who previously was accused as Ginbot 7 member and was jailed for many years, is also among the detained.
It is not yet clear who could be calling the shots but it’s obvious the command post is in control of the country. The United States and the European Union have expressed their opposition to the state of Emergency declared in Ethiopia and have stated it will not bring the much needed stability in Ethiopia.
In the United States, the congress is about to bring HR 128 to the floor for vote on April 9 or 16. HR 128 stands for House Resolution #128 and its full description is “House Resolution 128 – “supporting respect for human rights and encouraging inclusive governance in Ethiopia”.
The fact is that these mass arrests are taking place a couple of days after the US Congress announced its decision to bring H. Res. 128 for decision. Neither the Ethiopian government nor the Command post have said a word about their action and had so far remained tight lipped.
