ByteTikvah

tldr: The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission announced its process is entering a critical stage, urging the public and media to rely solely on verified information and warning against spreading misinformation.

#NationalDialogue🇪🇹 The National Dialogue Commission has issued a message to the media and the public. The National Dialogue Commission announced that one month has passed since the Ethiopian National Dialogue began, and the process is now moving to a critical stage. The commission stated that the participants' respect, listening, and discussion on common issues over the past month have been satisfactory and promising. It also explained that disagreements occurring during the dialogue are part of the process. What did the commission say about the media? The commission warned that especially as the dialogue process enters a critical phase, distorted, unverified, and inaccurate information might be spread by individuals, groups, and some media professionals. According to the commission, such misinformation can not only create fear and suspicion about the dialogue but also confuse the public and complicate the process. Therefore, the commission urged the public to only follow official information released by the commission and verified information disseminated by media outlets present at the dialogue venue. The commission gave a strict warning to media institutions, journalists, and influential individuals. Regarding the dialogue process: - Spreading information that is incomplete, - unverified, - or not officially disclosed from the venue can create undue confusion and bewilderment among the public, so the commission urged them to refrain from such activities. It specifically requested caution to prevent public confusion by presenting speculative information on the internal processes, discussions, or unfinished agendas of the dialogue. The commission stated that it is monitoring media institutions and professionals who commit professional and ethical violations. It announced that it is working to ensure accountability by informing relevant bodies when such actions are observed. The commission emphasized that this monitoring and action will continue to be strengthened in the future. Finally, the commission asked the entire public to refrain from following and sharing unverified information and to follow the dialogue process with verified information. Tikvah Ethiopia August 8, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107457

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: Ethiopian national dialogue groups have agreed that Addis Ababa will be accountable to the federal government, but a proposal to recognize it as the seat of the Oromia region was noted with a reservation. Similarly, Dire Dawa's status was agreed to remain federally accountable, while other agreements covered the city's police, courts, heritage, and working language.

It was announced that an agreement was reached on the issue of Addis Ababa, stating that it should be "accountable to the federal government," but the proposal that "the constitution should recognize it as the seat of Oromia" was held "with a reservation."The issue of Addis Ababa, which has been contentious starting from the 250-person group and continued to be debated by the 500-person group, was resolved yesterday with everyone agreeing that the city should be "accountable to the federal government." However, the idea that "the constitution should recognize it as the seat of the Oromia region" was held "with a reservation," agenda consultants told Tikvah Ethiopia.The issue became more contentious because, according to the consultation process, a new agenda was presented by Oromia representatives, stating "the constitution should recognize Addis Ababa as the seat of Oromia," which was not initially generated by the 10 and 50-person sub-groups and presented to the 250-person "strategic" group, and other regions did not accept this.In consultations held in recent weeks, various ideas were presented on the matter, leading to debates and even causing consultants to refuse to sign minutes and walk out of the hall.It was stated that in subsequent consultations, consultants reached an agreement that "Addis Ababa should be accountable to the federal government," but when this happened, "representatives of the Oromia region presented a precondition that the city should also be recognized by the constitution as the seat of the Oromia region."Although an agreement was reached for it to be accountable to the federal government, the proposal that the city should also be recognized by the constitution as the seat of the Oromia region led to a counter-proposal that "if its status as the seat of Oromia is recognized, then the city should also be recognized as the seat of other regions."All this has been a contentious issue recently, debated and discussed by the "working group" of 500 people, which received recommendations organized by the 250-person "strategic group." The full agenda was expected to be finalized, and the recommendations compiled into minutes for the group's consultants to sign before moving to the next consultation group.Although Addis Ababa's legal status had been contentious in the preceding days, consultants stated that an agreement was reached and they signed the minutes compiled yesterday.However, while it was stated that "an agreement has been reached on the issue of Addis Ababa," how the agreement was reached on the long-standing contentious issue was not disclosed, and Tikvah Ethiopia has asked consultants for clarification.How was the agreement reached on the issue of Addis Ababa by the "working group"?One consultant on the federal cities agenda told Tikvah Ethiopia that "everyone agreed that Addis Ababa should be accountable to the federal government."They explained that the minutes stated the city should be self-administering and accountable to the federal government, and consultants signed it. However, they also stated that there was an issue held "with a reservation" when signing.When an agreement was reached that "Addis Ababa should be accountable to the federal government," a proposal was made that the city should also be "recognized by the constitution as the seat of the Oromia region," which was debated and held "with a reservation," the consultant explained.The proposal that "it should also be recognized as the seat of Oromia" was signed "with a reservation, remainin... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107455

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: South Africa's 'foreigners out' movement has largely subsided, with protests ending. The country spent $18 million repatriating 80,000 immigrants, seeking compensation from Ethiopia and other nations.

"Currently, apart from group robberies in areas far from major cities, the protest that was scheduled for Thursday of this week has also been cancelled" - Ato Yohannes Habibi. For the past few months, the "foreigners out" movement, which has been widely observed in South Africa, has shown significant improvement, contrary to what was previously the case, even as the country's election period approaches, Ethiopians living in South Africa told Tikvah Ethiopia. Yohannes Habibi, a representative of the Ethiopian community in South Africa, who gave his statement to Tikvah Ethiopia, stated, "The anti-foreigner movement is not as feared." He explained that currently, apart from group snatching and robbery committed in groups in areas outside the country's main cities, the "foreigners out" protests have subsided. Another businessman living in South Africa, who said, "The high level of concern that existed had a negative impact on our business activities for months," stated, "The current relative calm is better than what existed even during local election periods when such campaigns were not present." Meanwhile, South Africa has spent approximately $18 million related to aviation, transport, and accommodation costs to return and transport over 80,000 undocumented immigrants to their home countries, and has requested compensation (to cover costs) from Ethiopia, Malawi, and Nigeria, among others, according to reports from Associated Press and Africa.com. Tikvah Ethiopia August 8, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107453

#World @ByteTikvah

tldr: The Mekelle City Prosecutor's Office appealed the acquittal of two defendants in the Zewdu Haftu murder case, arguing the Cassation Bench's decision to overturn a life sentence was inappropriate.

The Mekelle Prosecutor appealed the court's decision. The Mekelle City Prosecutor's Office announced that it has filed an appeal against the court's decision to acquit the two defendants in connection with the murder of Zewdu Haftu. Office head Tadesse Bayru stated that the Mekelle Central Court had previously sentenced the individuals accused in the Zewdu Haftu murder to life imprisonment and closed the case. However, the head indicated that the defendants were acquitted after appealing to the Cassation Bench. The prosecutor's office, stating it does not accept the decision, explained that it has filed an appeal with the Tigray High Court. As Tadesse explained, the appeal was filed on the grounds that the decision to acquit the defendants is inappropriate and that the previous decision was overturned by a 2-1 vote of the judges. The prosecutor's office head also stated that the information circulated on social media claiming "evidence has been lost" in connection with the case is completely false. Furthermore, it was announced that they do not know whether the two individuals accused in connection with the murder of Zewdu Haftu are currently in Mekelle city or not. Tikvah Ethiopia Mekelle August 8, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107451

#Crime @ByteTikvah

tldr: The Tigray Regional High Court announced the release of defendants in the Zewdu Haftu case, asserting its decision followed a legal process after reviewing evidence. It warned against external pressure.

Tigray Regional High Court's Response The Tigray Regional High Court announced that it has rendered a free and independent decision after examining the documents and evidence presented to it regarding the case of Zewdu Haftu. The court stated that it repeatedly issued orders and provided opportunities for evidence that should be presented in the cassation division to be submitted. Furthermore, by hearing the witnesses who should be heard, the court explained that its decision on July 29, 2018 E.C., to release the defendants was made through a legal process. The court also stated that any party dissatisfied with the decision can present their case to the appellate court in a legal and constructive manner. The court emphasized that exerting pressure on the court is unacceptable and announced that it will issue an additional statement to the media after the case follows its legal process and receives a final decision. Tikvah Ethiopia Mekelle August 8, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107447

#Crime @ByteTikvah

tldr: Nine civil society organizations protest the acquittal of two men sentenced to life for Zawdu Haftu's murder, citing missing evidence and alleged police interference. The organizations demand an urgent appeal and an independent investigation into the judicial process and alleged abuse of power.

"The acquittal of Zawdu's killers is 'like killing Zawdu a second time'" - Nine Associations Nine civil society organizations working on women's rights and justice issues have protested the acquittal of Yared Gebreslassie Belay and Angesom Hailemariam, who were previously sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of 32-year-old Zawdu Haftu. In August 2023, while Zawdu was on the street in Mekelle city with her friend Semhal Gebrezgiabher, a vehicle approached them. Zawdu was sexually assaulted by people inside the vehicle. Although she tried to resist this act, they refused to let her go. Later, they hit her with the vehicle they were driving and killed her. In this case, Yared Gebreslassie Belay and Angesom Hailemariam were sentenced to life imprisonment by the Mekelle Central Court on July 18, 2025, for the murder of Zawdu Haftu. The Tigray Supreme Court also reviewed the case on appeal and upheld the initial guilty verdict. According to the joint statement of the associations, Yared Gebreslassie Belay was also accused of killing another young woman named Mulubrhan Mekonnen Welegeres; he fully admitted to the charges against him. Now, their acquittal without new evidence to overturn the life imprisonment guilty verdict for Zawdu Haftu's murder has sparked outrage. The associations stated, "The acquittal of Zawdu Haftu's killers is like killing her a second time." How were they acquitted? When the case reached the Cassation Bench, it was discovered that the main original phone evidence used to convict the two defendants was missing from the appeal file. For this reason, the Cassation Bench returned the case to the lower court, ordering that the original evidence be properly presented and explained by a qualified expert. However, the statement explains that 5 months and at least 8 court sessions passed without this order being fulfilled. During this time, although the Tigray Police Commission informed the court that it had received the order, it was stated that the evidence required to fulfill the order was not presented. Later, a scanned copy was presented in place of the original evidence; the prosecutor's office also reportedly presented its own copy. It was stated that the request to have a federal expert explain the evidence was replaced by a Tigray regional expert. On July 27, 2026, a police officer provided a written explanation of the evidence. Nine days later, the court deemed this explanation sufficient and decided to acquit the two defendants. What is the question raised about the Tigray Police and the father of one of the convicts? The joint statement directly links the disappearance of the evidence and its absence for 5 months to the intervention of the Tigray Police Commission. The associations mentioned that Colonel Gebreslassie Belay, who served as Deputy Commissioner of the Tigray Police Commission at the time (and is still a Tigray force leader), is the father of the first convict, Yared Gebreslassie Belay. In May 2024, regarding an appeal by police investigators to prevent the release of a suspect whom the court had ordered to be "released," a complaint was filed alleging that Colonel Gebreslassie "threatened" the police officer in charge of the case by phone to consider the appeal a fault. The relevant police department reportedly filed a written complaint at the time. This incident raised questions of abuse of power in Zawdu's case. In addition to this... The organizations also mentioned that Semhal Gebrezgiabher, the sole eyewitness to Zawdu's murder, was detained for 8 months without charge. Furthermore, in May 2025, due to securit... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107445

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew's term was extended for another year by the Board of Directors, Addis Fortune reported.

Addis Fortune reported that Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Ato Mesfin Tasew, confirmed he will remain in his position for an additional year. It was stated that the airline's Board of Directors, chaired by Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa, extended Ato Mesfin Tasew's term. In a recent statement, Ato Mesfin had said that he was supposed to retire three years ago, but his contract was extended first for two years and then for one year at the government's request. Addis Fortune reported that it confirmed from him that his tenure has now been extended for an additional year. Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107442

#Business @ByteTikvah

tldr: The Ethiopian National Dialogue agreed Addis Ababa will be federally accountable and self-administer, with Oromia's claim for it as its seat referred to a reconciliation team. The dialogue on this specific issue concluded due to rising tensions, with most participants signing minutes affirming federal accountability.

#NationalDialogue🇪🇹It is said that an "agreement" has been reached on the controversial issue of Addis Ababa. However, it is not clearly known how.In a statement given by Hirut G/Selassie, Deputy Commissioner of the National Dialogue, she stated that the eight "working groups" organized with 500 people have "mostly agreed" and are signing minutes, concluding their work.One of the issues of the dialogue is the matter of Addis Ababa.Especially in the strategic group organized with 250 people, a new idea was presented by Oromia representatives that the city "should be recognized by the constitution as the seat of Oromia," while other regions argued, "It is the federal seat. It will not be the seat of only one region," which has been a point of contention.Last Saturday, 30 idea compilers selected by the "strategic groups" organized with 250 people failed to reach an agreement on the issue, so it was not presented to the "working group" of 500 people, and the 500 participants dispersed, with the matter postponed to Monday.Later, participants told us at the time that the 30 compilers read a summarized report to the 500 participants on Monday.One consultant on this matter told Tikvah Ethiopia that the report was read and that the issue of Addis Ababa's legality, which was widely raised and included in the minutes, was the main point.Primarily, the idea was raised that it should be accountable to three entities:- "It should be accountable to the federal government"- "As part of Oromia, it should be accountable to Oromia"- "Its accountability should be to the federal government, and it should administer itself" were the ideas presented.The idea that Addis Ababa should be constitutionally recognized as the seat of the Oromia regional government "did not stand out much" in the report read to the 500 participants. "But the idea that it should be recognized is what prevailed," they said."Many consultants stated that Addis Ababa is the seat of all, built with the wealth of all. In the future, everyone should come saying 'it is my city.' Therefore, regions can declare it their main seat in their own councils," was a recommendation expressed.After this report and other issues were presented on Monday, participants told us on Monday that a Q&A session would be held for them to present any ideas they wished to be included in the report.According to another consultant who spoke to Tikvah Ethiopia yesterday, the legal issue of Addis Ababa continued to be highly contentious on Tuesday and Wednesday.On one hand, a recommendation was made that "Addis Ababa should be constitutionally recognized as the seat of the Oromia region," while on the other hand, ideas argued, "This should not be enshrined in the constitution. If it is, then it should also be written that it is the main seat of all nationalities." The matter was then adjourned for today.What is the status of the matter today?In a statement today, Commissioner Hirut said that most of the 500 working group consultants have reached an agreement on the eight agendas and are signing minutes, concluding their work, but she did not specify what agreement was reached regarding Addis Ababa.Tikvah Ethiopia observed consultants discussing that an agreement was reached on the matter and they were signing minutes today.However, one consultant who spoke stated that an agreement was reached for Addis Ababa to continue "as a federal entity" and for the idea that the city "should be legally recognized as the seat of Oromia" to be handled as a dissenting opinion and reviewed by a reconciliation team.They also adde... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107441

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: Ethiopia's National Dialogue working groups concluded consultations, agreeing on Addis Ababa's legal status and government structure; recommendations are now being harmonized.

#NationalDialogue🇪🇹The commission announced that the consultation of the eight working groups, organized by 500 people, has concluded and their recommendations have been transferred to a team that will "harmonize ideas and ensure there are no contradictions."Deputy Commissioner of the Commission, Hirut G/Selassie, stated in a press briefing today that the groups, established with 500 participants, have been consulting within their respective groups and today "most of them have reached an understanding" and are finalizing by signing the recommendations.The consultants of the "strategic" groups, organized by 250 people, presented their discussed ideas to the "working group" of 500 people, and the group has been consulting for several days.In this regard, ideas concerning "Addis Ababa's legal status" and "government structure" were particularly contentious. Specifically, the legal issue of Addis Ababa was heavily debated, but it has now been reported that an agreement has been reached. The agreement also considers issues that will be addressed in the next process.Commissioner Hirut stated in her briefing, "It cannot be said that there were no disagreements and conflicts in this process; however, their existence further confirmed the necessity of this consultation. The conflicts have been resolved, and a common understanding has been reached, with all eight groups finalizing their work on most issues."Explaining the next process:- To a team that will harmonize the ideas prepared and agreed upon by all eight groups,- That will ensure there are no contradictions,- And will consolidate repetitive recommendations into one; the work has been transferred to this team, which will begin its work this afternoon.This team will ensure that the recommendations presented by the commission are consistent.Tikvah EthiopiaAddis AbabaNehase 7, 2018 E.C.@tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107439

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: The Ethiopian Media Authority announced a new system to immediately close business licenses of media outlets whose operating licenses are revoked. This ensures coordinated action with 11 government institutions to combat illegal media operations, address unregistered online media, and fight defamation and false information affecting national interest.

"Media outlets whose licenses are revoked will also have their business licenses immediately closed" - W/ro Haymanot Zeleke The Ethiopian Media Authority announced that it has established a system where, when it takes final administrative action against licensed media outlets, commercial media outlets, regional and community media, religious media, as well as online and foreign media, their business licenses will be immediately suspended and closed. The Authority's Director General, W/ro Haymanot Zeleke, stated this today, August 7, 2018 E.C., during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding that enables them to work in coordination and cooperation with 11 government institutions. What did Director General W/ro Haymanot Zeleke say in detail? "Previously, there was a situation where media outlets whose licenses we revoked continued their operations; this was because the business license office did not close their licenses. From now on, when we immediately revoke a license, the business license will be promptly suspended or closed. Not only this, but security forces will generally cooperate; because illegal media will not be allowed to operate. When the Authority decides that something is illegal, or that procedures have been violated, and takes a final administrative decision, it is a coordinated action that all of us institutions must take. From now on, there will be no situation where one institution revokes a license, but another allows it to continue due to lack of knowledge. Although few, there are media outlets that stand against ensuring our national interest. Bringing them to order and taking administrative action is a responsibility given to the Authority. There are many unregistered media outlets, especially online media. This is because there is a gap in the proclamation. This will be corrected; we have completed a proclamation amendment on our part, and the House of People's Representatives will review it next. Ensuring legal accountability is one of the administrative measures. Beyond administrative measures, there is also legal accountability. At this time, security forces are needed. Institutions are subjected to defamation based on inappropriate comments and unbalanced information. Various acts of defamation and disparagement are carried out from the perspective of national peace and security. There are people who pay with their lives due to false information; all institutions are defamed through inappropriate speeches, programs, and interviews conducted by those without professionalism, ethics, or in violation of the media proclamation and the country's laws; the Authority does not take action alone but in cooperation with justice bodies and the aggrieved institution or the institution whose name was defamed or made to be seen in an inappropriate light. Especially when there are distorted, unverified reports published against our national interest, we should not stop it by taking administrative action alone, but rather work in coordination with justice bodies and security institutions," she said. Tikvah Ethiopia Addis Ababa August 7, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107437

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: The Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA) signed an MoU with 11 government institutions to enhance media regulation, information exchange, and law enforcement. This collaboration aims to safeguard legality, public safety, and national interests by combating illegal digital content, cyber threats, and the spread of fake news, with the Federal Police actively dismantling foreign-based disinformation networks.

#EMAThe Ethiopian Media Authority (EMA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with 11 government institutions to jointly carry out regulatory, information exchange, and law enforcement activities in the media sector.The agreement aims to establish a fast and digital information exchange system among the institutions, jointly lead regulatory and capacity-building efforts, and strengthen law enforcement capacity in the media sector to ensure legality, public safety, and national interest.➡️ With the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Citizenship Service, and National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS):- Facilitating visa, pre-screening, registration, and press pass processes for foreign journalists;- Disseminating national media laws and regulations through embassies and raising awareness;- Rapid information exchange on national security and major diplomatic issues;- Conducting security checks on media equipment and performing joint oversight activities are mentioned in the MoU as areas of collaboration.➡️ With the Ethiopian Information Security Administration (INSA) and the Artificial Intelligence Institute (AI):- Protecting the Authority's information network and database from cyber attacks;- Strengthening digital forensic investigations to monitor illegal digital content;- Developing and facilitating Artificial Intelligence and IT systems that assist media regulation; and providing institutional email domain and cyber security awareness training.➡️ With the Documents Registration Service, Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration, and Addis Ababa Trade Bureau:- Ensuring the existence of a prior letter from the Authority when there is a share transfer;- Establishing a digital information exchange system regarding ownership and shares;- Immediately taking legal action on the business licenses of canceled or suspended media outlets;- Creating a link between the media database and the business system.➡️ With the Customs Commission, Civil Society Organizations Authority (CSO), and Federal Police:- Ensuring that media equipment is verified by the Authority upon import and preventing contraband;- Controlling those operating illegal commercial media businesses registered under the name of civil society organizations;- Carrying out law enforcement activities against entities that have faced administrative measures for legal violations.➡️ With the Financial Security Service:- Ensuring the financial health of media; effective control to prevent media from being hijacked by extremist forces;- The document states they will work to monitor that support and aid come and are used correctly from a national interest perspective.The Authority's Director General, Ms. Haymanot Zeleke, stated that fast, efficient, and effective service delivery, as well as fostering transparency and accountability among stakeholder institutions, are expected outcomes of the agreement.Ato Jeylan Abdi, Head of Public Relations Department and Media Sector for the Ethiopian Federal Police, stated, "The Federal Police has established its network, and we are dismantling the fake information networks operating through digital media from outside the country."He added, "Innocent lives are being lost due to the agenda they set; this must be controlled. There is nothing greater than humanity; what needs to be shut down must be shut down. To achieve this, the document we signed today must go beyond a signature and be put into action, and we must control who is doing what."Ti... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107435

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: Three youths were brutally killed in Central Ethiopia's Gurage Zone, allegedly by security forces, sparking outrage and calls for accountability from residents. Regional officials confirmed strict measures against "Fano" bandits but dismissed reports of ethnically targeted actions as false.

... By any standard, the killing of the youths is not right; if there is truly law, those who committed the execution should be held accountable" - Residents13 days ago in Abeshge Woreda, Gurage Zone, Central Ethiopia Region:° Temesgen Getachew° Yitagesu Asegdew° Gizaw Girmaye - information has reached Tikvah Ethiopia stating that these three youths were traveling by transport when they were forced out of a car and killed.Local residents who spoke to Tikvah Ethiopia, sources who claimed to have received information from the scene, and reliable sources familiar with the area #confirmed that the three youths were brutally killed."Tension has prevailed in the area for a long time," said one local resident, adding, "For the past approximately 6 years, Abeshge and its surroundings have not known stable peace.""This area is governed by a command post, experiences repeated horrific attacks; on one side by armed groups, and on the other side, it is affected by government security forces taking action to curb the activities of these armed groups; it has become an area where youths flee," they explained."It is true that recently three youths were forced out of a car, their hands tied behind their backs, brutally executed, and their bodies found in their hometown," they said.The killing of these youths by security forces and the subsequent instruction for their bodies to be left for hyenas, preventing their removal, has caused great anger, sorrow, and fear among the local community."Their bodies were dumped in their hometown around 11 PM, and after a warning was issued that no one should pick them up or bury them, their bodies were left exposed to hyenas. The family of one of the three eventually picked up and buried their loved one," they explained.The resident stated, "We heard that they were forced out of a car, accused of being 'Fano,' and then brutally killed. This is not right by any standard; if they had committed a crime or offense, they should have been taken to court. If there is truly law, those who executed people under custody should be held accountable by law."Another source, for their part, confirmed, "Although the exact location where the action took place is not known, this horrific act has occurred."They stated that they heard the place where they were apprehended was Agna in Ezha Woreda, on the road from Wolkite to Butajira."They were not apprehended while traveling as ordinary passengers," this individual said, adding, "They were being tracked by GPS as 'wanted' individuals. What I heard from the woreda is that 'they committed a crime, were wanted for a while, and were caught while trying to escape.'""Information was also passed to zonal security structures about their tracking, so they could also monitor them," they added.They stated that they have information that no action was taken against them at the place of apprehension; they were taken away by car from where they were caught, and the action was taken elsewhere; later, their bodies were found dumped in their hometown. They indicated that there was a distance of several kilometers between where their bodies were found and where they were apprehended."The brutal killing of people under custody has saddened and shocked everyone," they said.The same source indicated that in areas with recurring problems in the zone (one of which is Abeshge), people are killed and abducted; it is not clearly stated who commits these acts; and things are often covered up."Even if a person is found to have committed a crime, it is possible to hold them accountable through legal means, in a court of justice, so taking th... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107433

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: Addis Ababa police arrested seven individuals for stealing and receiving over 6 million Birr worth of car parts, significantly reducing theft in Nifas Silk Lafto. Victims can now reclaim their property from the police department.

"Those whose car parts have been stolen can come and identify and collect their property" - Police. In Addis Ababa, the Nifas Silk Lafto Sub-city Main Police Department announced that it has arrested 7 individuals in total: 5 suspects for stealing vehicle parts estimated at over 6 million Birr, and 2 recipients who were buying the stolen goods. Police stated that after conducting surveillance based on the rampant car parts theft in the sub-city, they apprehended the suspects following an investigation that lasted one month and 15 days. The 5 individuals whom the police suspect of committing theft with sufficient evidence are: Dawit Mengistu, Kedir Ahmed, Mahadi Sabit, Elias Arega, and Bekalu Andualem. Police also stated that two individuals named Dereje Tadesse and Chombe Hailu were arrested after it was confirmed that they were buying stolen car parts. The investigation also confirmed that the suspects were stealing car parts in Nifas Silk Lafto Sub-city on various dates and locations between 1 AM and 4 AM. During a legal search conducted at the shops of individuals receiving stolen car parts in the Melka Nono Woreda, Anfo area of Sheger City, the following were found: vehicle gauges, side mirrors, dashboards, a photocopy machine, a computer, three (3) illegal pistols and 2 bullets, cutting tools, a DX vehicle with code 2 A/A 40817, and a Platz vehicle with code 3 A/A 96821. Initially, 11 investigation files were opened against the suspects, and the investigation expanded to Bole, Lemi Kura, Yeka, Akaki, and Kirkos sub-cities, leading to 10 additional files being opened. A total of 21 investigation files have been opened, and the police stated that the process of filing charges is underway. Police announced that car parts theft, which was prevalent in Nifas Silk Lafto Sub-city, has significantly decreased since the suspects were apprehended. Citizens whose items have been stolen can also come to the Nifas Silk Lafto Main Police Department to identify the recovered items and collect their property, police stated. August 6, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107431

#Crime @ByteTikvah

tldr: A widely circulated letter on social media, purportedly from the Amhara Regional Police ordering control over Tigray natives, has been confirmed as fake. The letter uses an outdated institutional name and features the signature of an individual who left the organization years ago.

Fake: A letter circulated on various social media pages, claiming to be sent by the Amhara Regional Police to the Wolkait Tegede Setit Humera Zone Police, ordering control over Tigray natives, has been declared fake. Although the letter is dated July 30, 2018 E.C., the institution changed its former name from "Amhara Regional Police Commission" to Amhara Regional Police General Headquarters months ago. Additionally, it has been noted that Mengesha Awrari, who allegedly signed the letter, left the institution years ago. Therefore, the letter is far from the truth and fake. #AMC Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107425

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: Sudan's army commander, General al-Burhan, held undeclared talks with political and civil society groups to initiate a national dialogue, agreeing on steps to foster peace and form a preparatory committee.

#Sudan #NationalDialogue Sudan's army commander reportedly held undeclared talks for a national dialogue. Al Jazeera reported that Sudan's army commander, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, held undeclared talks with political and civil society representatives and various experts to conduct an all-inclusive national dialogue following the ongoing war in the country. The parties involved in the discussion reportedly agreed on certain practical steps to create a conducive environment for the national dialogue. These include stopping media campaigns against political opponents and discontinuing charges that could lead to the death penalty against opposition politicians. It was noted that charges have been filed against several political actors, including members of the Sudanese political coalition led by former Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok. The charges include war-related crimes, incitement to war, and undermining the constitution. During the talks, it was agreed to establish a preparatory committee for the national dialogue, comprising widely accepted independent individuals from various parties. This committee will determine the participants, agenda, venue, and timing of the dialogue, as well as the process for inviting regional and international observers. Furthermore, it was indicated that Al-Burhan held meetings with leaders of political groups, traditional leaders, religious leaders, academics, various experts, and representatives of resistance committees. The stated aim is to strengthen national consensus and reach a national project agreeable to all. On the other hand, a group comprising the United Nations, the African Union, the European Union, IGAD, and the Arab League has been working to initiate political dialogue in Sudan, but has so far failed to achieve concrete agreement due to differences among political groups. Notably, recent talks held in Addis Ababa were reported to be unsuccessful due to disagreements among Sudanese political groups. Efforts to hold a Sudanese national dialogue are underway as the war between the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) enters its third year. It remains to be seen whether the planned national dialogue will be a primary political platform to stop the war and transition to a political solution, or if it will create new political tensions. The information is from Al Jazeera. Tikvah Ethiopia Addis Ababa August 6, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107423

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: Cameraman Filmon disappeared in Mekelle over a year ago; his family, distressed by the lack of police progress, pleads for answers on his whereabouts.

"My children and I are overwhelmed with anxiety and sorrow. Please tell us the truth so we can find closure" - Mrs. Genet Ezra. Although a year has passed since cameraman Filmon disappeared, his whereabouts are still unknown. It has been over a year since the young cameraman Filmon (Filari), who suddenly disappeared in Mekelle city, went missing. Filmon's family states that he suddenly disappeared around 2:00 PM on August 4, 2017 E.C., while traveling by Bajaj in the Adi Haki sub-city of Mekelle. Since then, no confirmed information has been found regarding his whereabouts or what happened to him. According to the family, no new investigation results have been found on the matter. Filmon is a father of two children, and his wife, Mrs. Genet Ezra, stated that she has repeatedly gone to the police to inquire since her husband disappeared. "His mobile number still works. However, there is no known information whether he is alive or not," Mrs. Genet explained. The family stated that they expect a better investigation and clear information from the police and other security forces. Mrs. Genet specifically said she does not believe that regional and federal security forces have adequately investigated the case. "My children and I are overwhelmed with anxiety and sorrow. Please tell us the truth so we can find closure," she pleaded. According to the family, despite their frequent visits to the police, they have not been given any concrete additional information beyond "there is nothing new." Although a year has passed since his disappearance, the question "What happened to cameraman Filmon (Filari)?" still remains unanswered. Tikvah Ethiopia, August 6, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107419

#Crime @ByteTikvah

tldr: Addis Ababa University law students won the Sub-Saharan African FDI Moot competition, qualifying for the international finals in China next October. The team, comprising four students, overcame 14 other African teams in their first participation, attributing their success to prior experience in international arbitration. They are now seeking significant financial and institutional support for travel, accommodation, visas, and registration to represent Ethiopia and African legal education globally.

Addis Ababa University law students qualified for the international moot court finals, representing Africa. Addis Ababa University law students told Tikvah Ethiopia that they qualified for the international finals, representing Africa, after winning the zonal competition in the continental International Investment Law and Arbitration Moot Court (FDI Moot). In this challenging competition, which they participated in for the first time, they surpassed 14 teams from Nigeria, Kenya, and other African countries, finishing first from Sub-Saharan Africa. Those who represented Addis Ababa University in this competition are: ➡ Bamlaksera Fasil (3rd-year law student) ➡ Kalkidan Sebsebe (4th-year law student) ➡ Debora Tadesse (4th-year law student) and ➡ Nahot Girma (5th-year law student). What is the main reason for this continental achievement? "The main reason for this achievement is our previous experience in Vis Moot. Three of our four team members competed in an international arbitration competition for one year. This experience greatly helped us. The case we competed on involved complex questions related to international investment law and arbitration. Among the main procedural arguments were whether the claimant should be barred from bringing the claim now because they had previously submitted their complaint to another body, and whether an injunction should be issued. The substantive arguments, on the other hand, included questions concerning fair and equitable treatment and expropriation of property. The biggest challenge we faced during the competition was responding to detailed and unexpected questions from the judges," they said. Borga Delesa, the team leader and a former law student and legal professional at Addis Ababa University, stated that while the students have achieved this victory without any support so far, they will need significant financial and institutional support to participate in the final competition in China next October. Specifically: - For international travel, - Accommodation, - Visa, - Registration-related expenses, and preparation support are needed. Therefore, they have requested Addis Ababa University, relevant government institutions (especially the Ethiopian Investment Commission), the legal and business communities, and other organizations to provide cooperation and recognition. They stated that this opportunity is not only for these four students but also a great chance to promote and represent Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia, and African legal education on an international stage. If you wish to contact the competitors, you can reach the team leader, legal professional Borga Delesa, at +251925494142. Tikvah Ethiopia Addis Ababa August 6, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107417

#Education @ByteTikvah

tldr: Over 300 terror suspects in Ethiopia's Amhara region were offered a pardon requiring them to admit guilt for the crisis and condemn "extremist forces." Most signed, but 30 refused, citing ongoing legal battles.

What does the pardon document offered to over 300 terror suspects contain? BBC Amharic reported that a process has begun to release over 300 politicians, journalists, and other individuals accused of terrorism in connection with the Amhara regional crisis, through a pardon. How did the pardon process start? According to the report, the document requesting the defendants, who have been in prison for three years or more, to submit a pardon application was delivered to them through the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC). EHRC Chief Commissioner Birhanu Adelo, after mediating between the defendants and the government for about a month starting June 1, 2018 E.C., ensured that a document containing conditions for their pardon was delivered to each of the defendants. EHRC Chief Commissioner Birhanu Adelo had met with the defendants before. In December, he went with senior EHRC officials to the Kality Federal Prison pre-trial detention center and visited the defendants. There, they discussed human rights treatment and other issues with the defendants. It was six months after this visit that the Commissioner re-engaged with the defendants to begin negotiations. What does the document ask the defendants to believe? The document asks the defendants to admit to the crimes they are accused of in their respective case files and take responsibility. Specifically, the document asks them to: - Take responsibility for the crisis that occurred in the Amhara region; - Believe they are responsible for the thousands of people who died and were injured in the conflict; - Believe they caused billions in property damage; - Accept that they committed the terror offenses mentioned in their case files; - Promise not to participate in similar acts in the future; - State their agreement that if they break their promise, the government can take necessary legal action against them. What political stances are included? Based on responses from defendants who said "We will not sign," the document includes issues related to their political stances in addition to criminal charges. Specifically: 1. To believe that promoting the stance "the country should be governed by Amhara traditions and ideas" is a crime; 2. To accept that holding the stance "unjustly taken Amhara lands must be returned" is also a crime; 3. A precondition was set to condemn armed groups referred to as "extremist forces" operating in the Amhara region. How many signed? How many didn't? Over 300 defendants in various prisons were presented with the document to sign. Most signed; however, about 30 defendants refused to sign, opposing the preconditions, BBC Amharic reported. Tikvah Ethiopia, based on information obtained from their close family members, states that the 30 defendants who said "We will not sign" are the following: 1. Ato Yohannes Biyayew 2. Dr. Wondwosen Assefa 3. Dr. Sisay Awgichew 4. Dr. Meseret Kelemework 5. Dr. Tewodros H/Mariam 6. Journalist Gobezie Sisay 7. Journalist Dawit Begashaw 8. Journalist Abay Zewdu 9. Journalist Meskerem Abera 10. Journalist Genet Asmamaw 11. Ato Alelign Mihretu 12. Ato Menber Alemu 13. Ato Mike Melak 14. Ato Eskinder Shiferaw 15. Ato Desalegn Ejigu 16. Ato Asamnaw Tadesse 17. Ato Mesele Cheru 18. Ato Esubalew Belete 19. Dr. Zerihun Beharaw 20. Eng. Firdu Tefera 21. W/rt Halima Mohammed 22. W/rt Hiwot Alamrew 23. Ato Chane Zegeye 24. Ato Sisay Melkamu 25. Ato Marew Sileshi 26. Ato Tadesse Woldnew 27. Ato Yared Girma 28. Ato Solomon Tefera 29. Ato Muluken Tesfu 30. Ato Belay Sisay These 30 defendants stated that they cannot sign "we are criminals" while they are still disputing the charges in court. They hold the position: "We will not sign... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107415

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: Ethiopia's National Dialogue reached agreement on 50 of 53 proposals, including continuing federalism and removing 'up to secession' from Article 39. Three contentious issues, like government structure, remain unresolved.

#NationalDialogue🇪🇹The issue of whether the government structure should be parliamentary or presidential was not agreed upon and was held in disagreement, awaiting the next decision.Regarding the agenda of government structure and form, which is one of the 8 agendas, the question of whether the government structure should be parliamentary or presidential, a matter that had been debated by a 250-member "strategic" group, continued to be contentious within the 500-member "working group" and was passed on to a reconciliation committee, or failing that, to a vote.Ato Solomon Gebre, the agenda secretary, told Tikvah Ethiopia that within the 500-member "working group," two options for government structure were presented: "'parliamentary, with the president elected from parliament and performing both the president's and prime minister's duties combined'" and "'presidential, with the president elected directly by the people'." He stated that no common decision was reached on either, and they have moved to the next stage.The Consultative Commission announced today that the 500-member "working group" and the consultants have reached an agreement on the agenda titled "Government Structure and Form; Political System, Political Representation, and Electoral System" and have "confirmed this by signing the minutes of the meeting."The agenda secretary also told Tikvah Ethiopia that while agreement was reached on 50 out of 53 proposals presented under the agenda, three issues remained contentious, and thus, agreement on these would be sought by a reconciliation committee, or failing that, by a majority vote.Which issues, held in disagreement, will be passed on to the reconciliation committee, or failing that, to a vote?Regarding Government Structure:Solomon explained that the issue of whether the government structure should be parliamentary or presidential has taken two extreme positions based on the consultants' recommendations.On one hand, he stated that a recommendation was presented: "'parliamentary, with the president elected from parliament and performing the combined duties of the current president and prime minister. The work of both the prime minister and the president would be combined and given to the head of state/president. The head of state would be elected from parliament.'"On the other hand, an argument was presented: "'the president should be elected directly by the people through competition. The winner should lead the country.'"Regarding the Representation of the House of Federation:Ato Solomon explained that the House of Federation is a representative body for nationalities, and under the current system, each nationality gets one representative, with an additional representative for every one million people. He clarified, "This means it will be based on population."He added, "All identities should be represented, and then based on their population, one additional person is added for every one million." He stated that on one hand, a proposal from the consultants was for this system to "continue."On the other hand, he stated that an argument was presented: "'all national identities are equal; there is no such thing as a minor identity. Therefore, all nationalities should have an equal number of representatives.'"Regarding the Election of Nationality Representatives to the House of Federation:This is another ongoing contentious issue. Solomon told us that the constitution states, "Regional councils shall send representatives of nationalities; or elections shall be held," but "what is being implemented is that regions are sending them; under the current system." He said that on one hand, a proposal was made for this system to con... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107412

#Politics @ByteTikvah

tldr: The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission announced agreement on four key agendas—religious issues, peacebuilding, government structure, and corruption—after working groups with 500 participants reached consensus.

#NationalDialogue🇪🇹Agreement reached on 4 national dialogue agendas.The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission announced that 4 working groups have reached an agreement on the recommendations they discussed during the ongoing national dialogue.These agendas are:• Religious issues• Peacebuilding• Government structure and form, political system, political representation, and electoral system• Corruption and good governance .... issues.Each agenda has been discussed by a working group of 500 participants. The groups agreed on their compiled common recommendations and confirmed the agreement by signing the minutes of the meeting.The commission stated that similar discussions and agreement processes will continue on the remaining agendas in the coming days.(We will provide detailed information)August 5, 2018 E.C.@tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107410

#Politics @ByteTikvah