Victory! Eleven People Freed After More than a Week in Jail

Eleven people including a lawyer, journalists, bloggers, opposition members and academics were released on 5 April without being charged. The 11 had been arrested by Ethiopian security forces while attending a private ceremony in Addis Ababa on 25 March.

Eleven people including a lawyer, journalists, bloggers, opposition members and academics were released on 5 April without being charged. The 11 had been arrested by Ethiopian security forces while attending a private ceremony in Addis Ababa on 25 March. Ethiopian journalist and former Amnesty International Prisoner of Conscience, Eskinder Nega was released on 5 April without being charged. He was released together with journalist Temesgen Dessalegn; bloggers Mahlet Fantahun, Befiqadu Hailu, Zelalem Workagegnhu and Sintayehu Chekol; opposition members Andualem Arage, Addisu Getaneh, Yidnekachewu Addis, Tefera Tesfaye and Woynshet Molla. The 11 had been arrested Sunday, 25 March while at a private ceremony held at the home of journalist Temesgen Dessalegn in the Lebu area, Addis Ababa to celebrate their release from prison. Security officers accused them of participating in an illegal gathering without authorization of the Command Post, in violation of the State of Emergency Proclamation. The 11 were first taken to a police station in Lebu area, but were transferred to Nifas Silk Lafto Sub-City Community Policing Service Department during the night where they were held until their release. Thank you to all those who sent appeals. No further action is requested from the UA network. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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