ByteTikvah

#AddisAbaba Driver's license suspension has been temporarily halted, except for drivers who caused traffic accidents. The Addis Ababa Traffic Management Authority has been enforcing various penalties for traffic rule violations, implementing Regulation No. 557/2016 issued by the Council of Ministers. The regulation includes a system established to control road transport traffic using a digital traffic control and penalty enforcement system without receiving drivers' competency certificates or removing vehicle license plates. What happened when the point limit was reached? According to the regulation, drivers who repeatedly violated traffic rules and reached the point limit would have their competency certificates suspended and be required to undergo rehabilitation training. Additionally, there is a relevant procedure for offenders who take training in advance to reduce their points before reaching the limit. According to Articles 96(1) and (2) of the regulation, there is a procedure stipulating that drivers' suspensions shall be lifted upon presenting proof of completing the required knowledge and skill training. What is the problem? Although Regulation 557/2016 is a national regulation, its inconsistent implementation in other regions and its application only to offenders driving in Addis Ababa raised questions of fairness. The Addis Ababa Traffic Management Authority also notified the Road Safety Fund Service about this fairness concern. The Road Safety Fund Service, recognizing the issue, responded with a letter dated 23/11/2018 E.C. According to its response, a detailed implementation guideline has been under preparation to make the process of providing rehabilitation training to repeat traffic offenders after their driver's licenses are suspended effective and uniform. The guideline has passed the necessary process and has now been sent to the Ministry of Justice. Its aim is to establish a uniform procedure not only in Addis Ababa but also in other regions. What was decided for now? Until the detailed implementation guideline is approved and dispatched, the suspension of driver competency certificates due to points or duration, except for drivers who caused damage in traffic accidents, has been temporarily halted. This applies to: - Drivers previously suspended due to points; - Those suspended due to duration, for example, cases pending for 6 months without payment; - Drivers who may be suspended in the future due to points or duration. However, this does not apply to drivers who caused damage in traffic accidents. Financial penalties are not canceled! The temporary halt of driver's license suspension does not mean that financial penalties for rule violations have been canceled. The Authority stated that offenders are still required to pay their full penalty fees. What should those whose licenses were previously suspended do? In a further clarification issued on August 2, 2018 E.C., in response to drivers' questions, the Authority stated that drivers whose licenses were previously suspended and are in their possession should: 1. First, they must pay all their outstanding penalty fees. 2. After completing the payment, they must go to their nearest Traffic Management Authority branch office. 3. By submitting an application, they can have their driver's license suspension lifted. Note: A strict reminder has been given that driving is not allowed until the penalty payment is completed and the driver's license suspension is officially lifted. In general, what has been decided is not to stop penalties for rule... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107363

tldr: Addis Ababa temporarily halted driver's license suspensions for traffic violations, excluding accident-causing drivers, due to fairness issues with Regulation 557/2016, awaiting a new national guideline. Financial penalties for violations remain, and previously suspended drivers must pay all outstanding fines and apply to lift their suspension. #Local @ByteTikvah

A study has indicated that the rate at which individuals who have committed crimes and been rehabilitated return to criminal activity in Ethiopia's criminal justice system is at an alarming level. Of the inmates included in the study who committed crimes, were rehabilitated, and released, 94 percent returned to correctional facilities for another crime within less than 5 years. A study conducted by the Ethiopian Law and Justice Institute indicated that the rate at which individuals who have committed crimes and been rehabilitated return to criminal activity in Ethiopia's criminal justice system is at an alarming level, and that an integrated data management and legal framework is needed to curb this. The Institute conducted its annual research approval program, during which it unveiled its study titled "Recidivism and the Role of Correctional Facilities in Ethiopia: Legal Framework and Implementation System." This study, which focused on federal correctional facilities, indicated that there are still significant gaps in rehabilitating and reforming criminals to become peaceful citizens. Recidivism is defined as committing a new crime punishable by six months within five years of a previous crime for which a sentence was given or pardoned, and it is the main measure to determine whether correctional facilities are rehabilitating inmates within the criminal justice system. However, among the 127 recidivists included in the study, only 5.6 percent were found to have committed crimes after a five-year period, while the remaining 94.4 percent returned to correctional facilities within less than five years, indicating a lack of effectiveness in the rehabilitation process of inmates in federal correctional facilities. A detailed look at the study results shows that 57.9 percent returned to correctional facilities for a second time, and 31 percent were sentenced for a third time. Regarding the time it takes for them to return to crime after release, 36.5 percent returned within 2 to 5 years, while 23 percent committed new crimes within a short period of 6 months to 1 year. The results also show that 17.5 percent returned to crime within less than 6 months. Furthermore, the study recorded that inmates repeatedly committed similar types of crimes, ranging from their previously charged and punished offenses (52 percent robbery/theft) to the new crimes (53.6 percent robbery/theft) that led to their current re-incarceration. Other crimes include drug use and trafficking, banditry, tax evasion and fraud, human trafficking, corruption, and various other offenses. Among the reasons that led them to commit crimes again, 13.4 percent stated that they returned to crime due to unemployment. The study results also indicate that inability to earn money and lack of follow-up and support after release from correctional facilities contributed to their return to crime. Additionally, individuals released from prison faced rejection by society and their families, a lack of adequate vocational and psychological training in correctional facilities, and learning new criminal tactics while incarcerated were cited as reasons for their recidivism. Another point mentioned in the study is the absence of a uniform and organized digital data management (database) system in federal correctional facilities to identify criminals in a modern way, especially since fingerprint examination is not conducted on all suspects at the Addis Ababa police level, making it difficult to accurately identify recidivists and the national rate of criminal recurrence. To address this gap in the justice... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107361

tldr: A new study reveals an alarming 94% recidivism rate in Ethiopian federal prisons, with most inmates returning within five years. The report highlights systemic failures, lack of support, and absence of a proper database, recommending specialized rehabilitation programs and swift approval of a reintegration law. #Crime @ByteTikvah

#WARNING: This video contains shocking and disturbing images for some viewers. Please exercise caution before watching. A football player died after being struck by lightning during a football competition held in a province in southern Thailand. The lightning struck the player on the field while the game was being played in heavy rain. After the accident, despite assistance from spectators and emergency workers, and being taken to the hospital, his life could not be saved. Authorities stated that an additional 12 people were injured by burns in the accident. August 1, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107358

tldr: A football player died after being struck by lightning during a match in southern Thailand, which also left 12 other people injured. #Sport @ByteTikvah

The Federal Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission announced that it has confirmed corruption is at an alarming level in several institutions, including land and revenue institutions. In a corruption perception survey conducted by the Federal Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, corruption was announced to be at an alarming level in land administration and tenure registration, revenues and taxes, construction permits and control, trade and transport, and Woreda and Kebele administrations. The Commission stated that over 60% of Ethiopians in the survey sample told them that corruption is a serious problem that has created significant obstacles and challenges in social, economic, and political activities. The Commission's study report indicates that the desire for quick enrichment, lack of ethics, complex and unclear service delivery processes, and weaknesses in law enforcement are the primary and leading contributors to the spread of corruption. The study stated that one reason people forced to give bribes offer for their actions is that they have no other alternative to get the service. The study indicates that individuals give bribes to have the service they want performed, to avoid potential harassment for not doing what is expected of them, and to have their matters processed quickly. The study stated that due to the risk of retaliation and intimidation that individuals who want to report corruption might face, the lack of a reliable whistleblower protection system, and the long and complex reporting process, the community is hesitant to report corruption. 75% of the study participants stated that taking swift and strong legal action against corrupt offenders and recovering embezzled assets are effective measures to reduce corruption. The Commission also stated that further operational improvements are needed regarding the law enforcement process for corruption crimes. Specifically, it indicated that delays in information exchange and decision implementation between institutions, limitations in evidence collection, lack of digital and forensic investigation capacity, and shortage of trained personnel are obstacles in the corruption investigation and prosecution process. The Commission suggested that continuous operational improvements are needed to make the law enforcement process transparent, accountable, predictable, and effective. This information is owned by Reporter Newspaper. August 7, 2026 @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107357

tldr: Ethiopia's Federal Anti-Corruption Commission reported alarming corruption levels in land, revenue, and construction sectors, citing ethical lapses and weak enforcement as key drivers. #Politics @ByteTikvah

No text available. Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107354

#General @ByteTikvah

#Court"The court granted the police 12 days for further investigation into the EHAPA members accused of "terrorist attack"."It is known that the Ethiopian Federal Police has filed charges against Mr. Abebe Akalu, Mr. Yishak Welday, and Mr. Abera Nigussie, who are members of EHAPA, alleging that they "acted to commit a terrorist attack".The police also accused the suspects of collaborating with various forces to violently overthrow the government system and spreading false propaganda through foreign media to incite ethnic and religious conflict. The defendants appeared before the Lideta Division First Adjournment Court of the Federal High Court on Hamle 29, 2018 E.C.The court, for its part, ordered the plaintiff police to present as evidence the statements the suspects allegedly made in the media by Hamle 30, 2018 E.C., and adjourned the case to today, Nehase 1, 2018 E.C., to examine the evidence and rule on the bail request.The defendants' lawyer, Mr. Solomon Gezahegn, told Tikvah Ethiopia today that the court was presented with the link to the alleged statements made by the suspects in the media yesterday and listened to the statements.After listening to the interviews broadcast in the media, the court stated that there was "to some extent something that could be a basis for a terrorist crime" and that further investigation was needed. Lawyer Solomon said that in today's hearing, the court granted a 12-day adjournment for additional investigation. Therefore, the police have been given 12 days for further investigation to present the case after clarification, he added.The police had initially requested 14 days for further investigation on the first day of the hearing, and it was stated that the court granted 12 days out of the 14 days requested by the police in today's hearing. The court concluded today's hearing by setting an alternative date for Nehase 11, 2018 E.C."This 12-day period is not counted from today, but from Hamle 29, 2018 E.C., the date the defendants first appeared in court," their lawyer told Tikvah Ethiopia.In a related matter, politician Mr. Abebe Akalu, one of the defendants, stated that "an order has been given to the police for him to receive medical treatment" as he suffers from "blood pressure and diabetes".It is known that the defendants were arrested by the police and charged on Hamle 27, 2018 E.C.Tikvah EthiopiaAddis Ababa#TikvahEthiopiaFamilyAA@tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107353

tldr: An Ethiopian court granted police 12 days for further investigation into three EHAPA members accused of terrorism, after reviewing their alleged media statements. The court found some basis for the charge and ordered medical treatment for one defendant. #Politics @ByteTikvah

#UpdateThe prosecutor's petition to revoke the bail rights of artists suspected in a 'fintech investment' fraud case and have them follow their case from prison was rejected, and a ruling was given for them to be issued a severe warning.The prosecutor had filed a petition to revoke the bail rights of the defendants, who are accused in a major investment fraud case and whose case is being heard in court, and their lawyer. The prosecutor argued that while the case file was in the process of debate and no court decision had been rendered, they appeared on media and gave explanations outside the context of the charges, attempting to influence the judicial process and witnesses, thus requesting they follow their case from prison.Additionally, the prosecutor included requests for the media outlet that published the report to apologize and remove the video, and for direct punishment under Article 457 of the Criminal Code.The prosecutor further explained that if the court could not directly punish the act, the prosecutor would use their power to conduct a criminal investigation and file charges, bringing the defendants under legal custody.In this morning's hearing, the court, which had previously set a date to respond after examining the prosecutor's petition and the defendants' response, rejected the petition to revoke the defendants' bail rights.The court rejected the bail petition, stating that it was inappropriate to deny their bail rights for minor errors.Furthermore, regarding the prosecutor's petition stating that if the court could not directly punish the act, the prosecutor would use their power to conduct a criminal investigation and file charges, bringing the defendants under legal custody, the court also rejected this, stating that it would be investigated through a regular process and their right to defense would be respected.However, regarding the content of the broadcast report, the court stated it was a misleading report that did not follow the law, and ordered it to be removed from the media outlet and for the media to apologize.Regarding the artists, the court ruled that they should be issued a severe warning, and the scheduled hearing for October 2, 2018 E.C. on the file remains as planned.Tikvah EthiopiaAddis AbabaAugust 1, 2018 E.C.@tikvahethiopia@tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107351

tldr: A court rejected the prosecutor's request to revoke bail for artists accused of fintech fraud, issuing a severe warning; media ordered to remove misleading report. #Crime @ByteTikvah

#UpdateThe prosecutor filed a complaint requesting that artists and TikTokers suspected of 'Fintech Investment' fraud have their bail revoked and follow their cases while in custody. A ruling on the complaint is scheduled for 9 o'clock today.It is known that the Federal High Court, Lideta Division, had previously ruled that artists and TikTokers suspected of 'Fintech Investment' fraud could follow their cases from outside on a bail of 400,000 and 500,000 Birr.Mansur Jemal, listed as the 5th defendant in the case file, also had his bail granted by the Federal Supreme Court and is following his case from outside.The defendants' objection to the charges was fully rejected by the Federal High Court in a session held on July 29, 2018 E.C.While the court was adjourned to rule on the objection to the charges, the prosecutor previously filed a complaint alleging that defendants 1st (Serawit), 2nd (Solomon), 3rd (Yigerem), 4th (Daniel), 6th (Khalid), and 7th (Abraham), as well as their lawyer Ababaw Abebe (who represents defendants 2nd to 4th, 6th, and 7th), violated the law and influenced the court by appearing on a media outlet called 'Egrengaw,' owned by Ato Teklehaymanot Adane, and reporting on the case before the legal process was completed.The prosecutor's detailed complaint states that the defendants and their lawyer, who are accused of a major investment fraud and whose case is ongoing in court, appeared on media and spoke about matters outside the context of the charges and evidence presented, thereby attempting to influence the judicial process and witnesses, despite the case file being under deliberation and no court decision having been made.As stated in the prosecutor's four-page written complaint to the court, "Serawit Fikre and others" (6 defendants) accused of Fintech Investment fraud, along with their lawyer Ato Ababaw Abebe, committed an act that undermines the independence of the court through a digital media called "Egrengaw Media."The prosecutor stated that while the case was ongoing in court, the defendants and their lawyer, in a video broadcast watched by hundreds of thousands of people, "caused the public to form a distorted opinion about the case and attempted to portray that false charges were filed against them based on individual complaints."This, he said, was an attempt to pressure the court and erode public trust in government institutions.In his explanation, the prosecutor stated that the type of charge brought against the defendants in court is related to what is known globally as a Ponzi scheme (generating an attractive but unfulfillable business idea).He also mentioned that many citizens worldwide have been defrauded of millions of Birr through this type of scheme.However, the main point of contention in the charge against the artists and TikTokers is whether the company was established, the attractive business idea was presented, and the contract was fulfilled for some people but not for others, as part of a planned fraudulent process.While the question remains whether the current defendants participated in the fraudulent process, the prosecutor stated that the defendants' attempt to explain on media, claiming the fraud is false and using pre-prepared evidence that does not fully explain the truth, harms the main litigation process and puts pressure on the court.The prosecutor announced that this action by the defendants constitutes the crime of "obstructing justice" as stipulated under Article 457 of... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107349

tldr: The prosecutor has requested the revocation of bail for artists and TikTokers accused in the "Fintech Investment" fraud case, arguing their media appearances constitute obstruction of justice. The defendants countered that they sought to clear their tarnished names, while the media owner stated the interview was at their request. The court heard both sides and is scheduled to issue a ruling on the prosecutor's complaint today. #Crime @ByteTikvah

Two individuals who kidnapped a 2-year-and-6-month-old child and demanded 2.5 million Birr have been sentenced to 19 years. In Adwa town, Central Zone, Tigray Region, two individuals who kidnapped a 2-year-and-6-month-old child and demanded 2.5 million Birr ransom were each sentenced to 19 years of rigorous imprisonment and a 300,000 Birr fine. The defendants, Mamu Gebrehiwot Weldearegay and Tsigab Gerezgiher Abrha, kidnapped a 2-year-and-6-month-old child named Solomon Gidey from Axum town on Sene 4, 2018 E.C. and took him to Adwa. They then confirmed to the police in their statement that they demanded 2.5 million Birr ransom to release the child and received 700,000 Birr from it. The Central Zone Court, in its hearing on Hamle 28, 2018 E.C., based on the presented human and documentary evidence, sentenced both to 19 years of rigorous imprisonment and a 300,000 Birr fine. The child's family expressed gratitude to the police for their efforts, stating that the case received a quick judicial resolution. The information is from the Central Zone Police. Nehase 1, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107347

tldr: Two individuals were sentenced to 19 years and a 300,000 Birr fine each for kidnapping a 2.5-year-old child in Tigray and demanding 2.5 million Birr ransom. #Crime @ByteTikvah

#Fast_of_Filsata His Holiness Abune Mathias I Patriarch, Head of Archbishops of Ethiopia Archbishop of Axum and Ichege of the See of Tekle Haimanot: "During this Fast of Filsata for Mary, we should spend the fast by feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, reconciling the estranged, visiting the sick and imprisoned, receiving Holy Communion, and seeking forgiveness through repentance for our sins. ...Furthermore, we convey our paternal message in the name of God, urging you to ask God during this fast, with a sincere heart and humble spirit, to stop the destructive war that is a grave concern in our country and around the world, through His divine wisdom and power." (His Holiness's full message is attached above) @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107343

tldr: Patriarch Abune Mathias I called on followers to observe the Fast of Filsata through acts of charity, Holy Communion, and repentance. He also urged prayers for God to end the destructive wars in Ethiopia and globally. #Culture @ByteTikvah

#NationalDialogue🇪🇹Participants told Tikvah Ethiopia that yesterday, some consultants walked out of the forum, refusing to sign a new agenda that emerged from 250 "strategic" groups, which was not raised at the level of 10 and 50-person organized groups, stating, "Addis Ababa should be legally recognized in the constitution as the seat of the Oromia region."However, it was stated that an agreement was reached today in the afternoon.One participant from the Federal Cities Affairs, in their statement to us, recalled that initially there were contentious ideas such as, "To whom should Addis Ababa be accountable? Who is its owner? Its owner and accountability should be to Oromia" and "It is the city of all nations and nationalities. Its accountability should be to the federal government."They further explained that "later, Oromia politicians who were advocating for the first idea withdrew their proposal, stating 'we do not object to Addis Ababa being the seat of the federal government,' but they changed their stance to 'however, legal recognition should be given for it to be the seat of the Oromia regional government.'"Conversely, other consultants stated that they argued, "After we call it a federal city and a city for all of us, it is not appropriate to give it special status as a seat for one community." They added, "Ultimately, both ideas came up in up to 500 groups."The participant stated that the agenda "Addis Ababa should be the seat of the Oromia region" was "not discussed for 15 days. It is a new idea that came up when we reached 250 groups," and explained that a question was raised: why did an idea that didn't come from the bottom come from the top?Another participant told Tikvah Ethiopia that Oromia regional participants argued "Addis Ababa must be part of the Oromia region," while participants from other regions argued "Addis Ababa must be a federal entity," leading to debates.In discussions to reconcile ideas, participants from the Oromia region agreed "Okay, let it be a federal entity," but they set preconditions: "Oromia should be given 50 plus one" and "We want the federal constitution to recognize Addis Ababa as an Oromia city."They explained that "50 plus one" means representation, and "representation means entirely Oromia. Therefore, it is not acceptable as it grants rights to only one entity," which was another idea presented. Another participant in this agenda shared the ideas of both participants.Why did the consultants walk out of the forum?One of the participants who gave an explanation to Tikvah Ethiopia said, "Yesterday we walked out of the forum. The reason we walked out is that what we had agreed upon the day before yesterday created confusion when it was read yesterday. The people representing Oromia signed, but others refused to sign and walked out."They explained that the confusion was caused by "50 plus one" and the demand for "the federal constitution to recognize Addis Ababa as an Oromia city" because they lacked clear explanations. This, they stated, forced them to go back and discuss again recently.Another participant said, "When there was pressure to accept that Addis Ababa should be the seat of Oromia, those who would not accept this walked out of the forum yesterday."Another participant also told us the same idea. Tikvah Ethiopia also heard that there are parties who have filed complaints with the commission regarding the new agenda reportedly presented at the strategic group level.What did the consultants achieve today?Participants stated that an agreement was reached in the discussion before noon today. One participant told us that after the confusing issues were clarified, it was agreed by the 250 groups that Addis A... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107339

tldr: Ethiopia's national dialogue on Addis Ababa's status faced walkouts over a proposal for it to be Oromia's seat. An agreement was reached for federal status, with Oromia's specific demands noted. #Politics @ByteTikvah

The government today officially announced that 7 cryptocurrency applications have been completely banned from operating in the country. It indicated that the applications provided cover for illegal money transfers. It is not forgotten that various cryptocurrency applications had previously removed the Ethiopian Birr from P2P platforms. Meanwhile, it indicated that action has been taken against 4 senior leaders of the Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) who entered into illegal power sale agreements with 36 data mining companies without proper guidelines. On the other hand, it announced that 169 Ethiopian and foreign nationals involved in illegal money transfers, hawala, and the black market have been held legally accountable. Additionally, it stated that 36 individuals who fraudulently withdrew money from Commercial Bank of Ethiopia customer accounts in an organized manner have been arrested and their bank accounts frozen. Furthermore, the government announced that action has been taken against 38 betting companies that defrauded the government of taxes by hiding customer information, concealed their income, and engaged in illegal money transfers in connection with betting and fintech businesses; their owners have been arrested and the bank accounts of these illegal institutions have been frozen. Tikvah Ethiopia, Hamle 30, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107337

tldr: Ethiopia banned seven crypto apps, sanctioned 38 betting companies, and took action against 4 EEP leaders and 205 individuals for various illegal financial activities. #Crime @ByteTikvah

Remedial Program Exam Takers' Grievance Students who took the 2018 E.C. national remedial program exam are expressing their grievances due to the delay in the release of their results. The students, stating "It's almost two full months since we finished taking the exam," presented their grievance to Tikvah Ethiopia, saying "It is not appropriate for the results to remain unreleased for this long." The students, stating "It is not appropriate that 57 days have passed without the results being released, we have been subjected to depression and undue pressure," said "The government should immediately announce our results." Tikvah Ethiopia's attempt to ask the relevant government bodies when the remedial exam results would be released was unsuccessful. We will inform you of any information released by the Education Assessment and Examinations Service and the Ministry of Education regarding the remedial exam results. It is known that over 53,000 examinees took the remedial exam given from May 27/2018 E.C. to June 03/2018 E.C. Via @tikvahuniversity Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107335

tldr: Students who took the 2018 E.C. national remedial exam are protesting the 57-day delay in results, causing them distress. They demand the government immediately release their scores, while Tikvah Ethiopia's inquiry to authorities was unsuccessful. #Education @ByteTikvah

“The second largest terminal after Bole International Airport was built in Bahir Dar city” - Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (Dr.) The Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed (Dr.), inaugurated the new terminal at Bahir Dar International Airport today. In his speech on the occasion, he stated that increasing revenue capacity and establishing peace are fundamental requirements to ensure the city's sustainable growth. The Prime Minister pointed out that although Bahir Dar had not been seen in the way it should have been due to a lack of continuous development in the past, there are now good beginnings. Regarding the city's revenue, the Prime Minister said, “Even if we say that Bahir Dar has the largest terminal after Bole in Ethiopia, even if we say it has the largest bridge, even if we say large resorts have been built, even if we say a stadium is nearing completion; today Bahir Dar's revenue ranks seventh among Ethiopian cities.” He added, “Unless this revenue improves, Mayor Goshu will not only be unable to change the city but also unable to maintain what has been built so far.” On the other hand, the Prime Minister praised the reform work carried out by the Amhara Regional Supreme Court, stating that the system it established for virtual court hearings and handling complaints is a remarkable demonstration of ensuring justice. When he spoke about peace, he said, “If the right cannot pinch the left, if the right cannot give rest to the left, the hopes and efforts we have seen could be ruined.” He added, “Peace is a precious gift, time is a great asset, work is a great blessing, and cooperation and standing together are needed more than ever. If we don't agree, let's argue like gentlemen through dialogue; but let's be careful not to let time pass us by.” Describing the regional leadership, he said, “In the past 30 years, neither the Amhara region nor Bahir Dar had a time when they fully governed themselves as they do today. Our President is a trusted, beloved, respected, working, and empowering president who can make decisions as he wishes with his full dignity and the authority granted to him by law.” Tikvah Ethiopia Addis Ababa July 30, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107333

tldr: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated Bahir Dar's new international airport terminal, the second largest after Bole. He urged the city to boost its seventh-ranked revenue and ensure peace for sustainable growth, also commending the Amhara Supreme Court's virtual court reforms. #Politics @ByteTikvah

Taxpayers who received a text message (SMS) by July 25 must complete their payment online by July 30, 2018 E.C. Those who did not receive a message or received it after July 25 can pay without penalty until August 20" - Revenues Office The Addis Ababa City Administration Revenues Office announced its plan to collect 9.2 billion Birr from 456,433 "Category B" taxpayers engaged in various business sectors in the capital during the 2018 tax year. The office stated that most "Category B" taxpayers have paid their annual tax through the online system, while the rest are in the process of payment. According to the payment schedule, taxpayers who received a text message (SMS) by July 25 are required to complete their payment online by July 30, 2018 E.C. Taxpayers who did not receive a message or received it after July 25 can pay without penalty until August 20, 2018 E.C. The office also stated that various reform works have been carried out over the past two years in tax collection systems, service delivery, and good governance. It also mentioned that the tax paid by "Category B" traders is less than that paid by employed individuals, explaining that this is a practice adopted to encourage small businesses. For the 2019 budget year, Addis Ababa approved a budget of 502.27 billion Birr, and it was announced that 380 billion Birr of this is planned to be collected by the Revenues Office. On another note, the office stated that a complaint resolution system has been established for issues related to "Category B" tax payments. It clarified that the annual tax amount sent via phone was calculated after deducting pre-tax payments, and taxpayers with complaints about the tax amount can submit their inquiries using the established complaint resolution system. (Addis Ababa Revenues Office) Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107328

tldr: Addis Ababa's Revenues Office aims to collect 9.2 billion Birr from Category B taxpayers for the 2018 tax year, setting online payment deadlines and establishing a complaint system. #Business @ByteTikvah

The Government Communication announced that an operation was carried out against entities that caused loss of government revenue by reducing tax assessments, circulating fake receipts, and deleting information in the system. 109 suspects who created a network of illicit benefit using their own, relatives', and drivers' accounts were identified, and among these, 91 individuals have been taken into legal custody. July 7, 2026. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107325

tldr: An operation against tax fraud and illicit networks led to the identification of 109 suspects, with 91 individuals taken into legal custody for causing government revenue loss. #Crime @ByteTikvah

The FDRE Government Communication Service announced that extensive law enforcement actions have been taken against individuals and institutions that moved to obstruct macro-economic reform, loot national wealth, and conduct illegal economic activities.According to the statement, the actions focused on corruption, contraband, illegal money transfers, and other economic crimes committed in the financial, trade, fuel, mining, revenues and customs, betting and fintech, electric power, and overseas employment sectors.The statement indicates that over 7,000 businesses and warehouses have been sealed; 169 individuals have faced legal action for illegal money transfers, 183 individuals for gold contraband, and over 650 individuals and institutions for illegal fuel trade. Additionally, 7 cryptocurrency applications have been banned from operating within the country.The Minister of Government Communication Service, Etana Meles, stated that the government will continue to strengthen its actions to prevent corruption, theft, and illegal activities, and called on the public to support these efforts by exposing illegal acts and not cooperating with lawbreakers. Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107323

tldr: The Ethiopian government has launched extensive law enforcement actions against individuals and institutions involved in economic crimes, including corruption, contraband, and illegal money transfers. Over 7,000 businesses were sealed, and hundreds of individuals faced legal action for offenses like gold contraband and illegal fuel trade. Additionally, seven cryptocurrency applications were banned as the government vows to continue its crackdown and urges public cooperation. #Crime @ByteTikvah

#NationalDialogue🇪🇹"Ideas supported by 50 people were being minuted when one person was caught tearing the paper. When asked, she said, 'He told me to tear it'" - Participant in the consultation."If minute-takers or others say, 'We did this because we were told to,' it is absolutely wrong" - Mesfin Araya (Prof.)During the consultation, participants stated that there were individuals who obscured ideas raised by participants, tore up ideas recorded in the minutes, and that facilitators and minute-takers were observed exerting "pressure" on participants' ideas outside their job descriptions. The Commission also announced that it had observed some ethical misconduct.One participant said, "Especially sensitive issues related to prisoners and identity questions have been raised. In this regard, people we know are creating problems."They also stated, "One person was caught tearing ideas supported by 50 people while they were in the minutes."They explained that these include ideas raised by various parties.When asked why the coordinator tore the part of the paper containing recommendations, she stated that another party pressured her, saying, "'He told me to tear it.' The one who told her to tear it is one of the representatives from the Amhara region who has a mission. We are presenting this accusation. This is the main one of the observed shortcomings. It has been submitted to the Commission," they said.They explained that people who say "we are oppressed" are being pressured, stating, "For example, there are three Amhara regional bureau heads who were selected from each group to try to become leaders in Group 6 and suppress ideas until the end." Their aim, they accused, is "to suppress those who raise issues about problems in the Amhara region by hanging somewhere, and to prevent their ideas."They also said, "Government-appointed officials and members of the ruling party are coordinating this work and working to suppress human rights. People who came at the government level have created fear for us. We don't know if the ideas we consulted on are being recorded. Because trained cadres are deployed here."In a related matter, it was observed that complaints were raised about individuals who, instead of being among the scholars prepared by the Commission to give presentations to participants, improperly intervened and exerted "pressure," failing to fulfill their responsibilities, and that facilitators and minute-takers exerted "pressure" on participants' ideas.Tikvah Ethiopia asked Commissioner Mesfin Araya (Prof.) for clarification regarding the complaints. He stated that he had been discussing with parties, saying, "Institutions echo what they observe to the Commission's council; we will gradually correct what we need to correct in the process. But if minute-takers or others say, 'We did this because we were told to,' it is absolutely wrong."He stated that regional chief administrators, the mayor of Addis Ababa, federal leaders, and ministers are present at the assembly, saying, "They are there to consult like others, not to show their power or overturn things. We should not exert pressure on each other."Commissioner Mesfin said, "We have observed some ethical violations.""Sometimes, when respect weakens; we have observed some trying to suppress the identity of others. This is absolutely not right," he said. "From now on, we will take action according to our meeting conduct guidelines."What did the Commissioner say to the facilitators, minute-takers, and schol... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107321

tldr: Ethiopia's National Dialogue is marred by allegations of ethical misconduct, including participants tearing documents and facilitators pressuring ideas. Commissioner Mesfin Araya acknowledged observing ethical violations and promised corrective action based on meeting conduct guidelines. Concerns were raised about regional interference and government officials suppressing human rights and ideas. #Politics @ByteTikvah

Ethiopia's first reliable Equb platform verified by Fayda (FaydaVerse DPI Solutions) – Virtual Equb!On the historic evening when the Ethiopian National ID Program "FaydaVerse" (FaydaVerse DPI Solutions) officially announced its transition into a government development enterprise, Virtual Equb, which provides easy, fast, and reliable Equb services to the community by offering Equb in a modern way, became a participant in the program.Virtual Equb, in collaboration with Fayda eKYC, offers an Equb service built on enhanced security, transparency, and high trust by utilizing verified identities. Since only users verified by Fayda eKYC can join, the chance of fraud is significantly reduced, ensuring greater security and confidence for all members.Download the modern, fast, secure, and Fayda-verified Equb application at https://get.virtualequb.com/ and start various Equb options today!For more information, call us on our short phone line 8171.For new updates, join our Telegram channel https://t.me/virtualequb10.Comfort, speed, and trustworthiness are our hallmarks. Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107317

tldr: Virtual Equb, Ethiopia's first Fayda-verified digital Equb platform, has launched as a participant in the FaydaVerse program. It offers secure, transparent, and reliable Equb services by integrating with Fayda eKYC for identity verification, significantly reducing fraud. #Business @ByteTikvah

"It's a second death for us. It's a new sorrow for us!" - Zawdu Haftu's sister BBC Amharic, citing the victim's family, reported that two convicts, Yared Gebreselassie and Angesom Hailemariam, who were sentenced to life imprisonment for the horrific murder of Zawdu Haftu in Mekelle two years ago, have been acquitted. The Mekelle Intermediate Court declared them "not guilty." Zawdu's family stated that the decision was made because a crucial digital document, which was presented as evidence to the lower court, went missing from the court's registry. This vital digital evidence was related to a SIM card that the convict Yared had. Zawdu was found murdered on August 13, 2015 EC, in a place called 'Adihawsi' at night, after leaving home to attend the Ashenda festival and celebrate a friend's birthday. Her body was dragged by a car and left on the road. The victim's father, who was deeply saddened by this horrific and shocking murder, passed away. What did the victim's younger sister, Birtukan Haftu, tell BBC Amharic about today's hearing where the convicts were declared "not guilty"? "The defendants initially appealed to the regional court, and the regional court reviewed the file and stated that the verdict was correct. But then they appealed to the Cassation Bench, which sent it back to the lower court, and the lower court declared them 'not guilty.' Her mobile phone was found during a security investigation. Her phone number was sent to Addis Ababa, and a code was generated using her number, showing a detailed list of whose SIM cards were inserted after hers. The list included phone numbers and even photos. According to the evidence, she had it until December 13, 2015 EC, then on the 16th, Angesom Gebreselassie had it, and it was with Angesom and Yared until September 8; after them, it went to another person. Their details are there. Finally, the list states that a person named Dejen was found via GPS, and the phone's casing was seized from him in Mekelle. This detailed information was obtained from the Federal Information and Security. What happened now was, 'The original is missing, the document should come from Addis Ababa.' It was also said that the people from Addis Ababa should come and explain. However, under the current circumstances, they cannot come to Mekelle, so the court said, 'Okay, if someone from Mekelle police can come and explain, let them come and explain.' Then a commander came and explained. There were many questions. The judges were confused and asked many questions. The judge himself said that the code of the current mobile phone does not match the evidence presented. Then the commander said, 'It might have been changed after me.' My suspicion is the same. After being thoroughly investigated from Addis Ababa and a verdict given, there is no reason for the code to change a year later. Either the casing was changed, or something was done. The judges also said, 'The evidence is not the same.' The judges opened the casing and saw it. I don't know how it turned on; they turned on a mobile phone that had been sitting for a year and saw it. The commander said, 'Perhaps the casing might have been changed.' Furthermore, the file showing information about the mobile phone was also said to be 'missing.' When we asked, 'How did the file go missing?' they said, 'It went missing from the regional court when it was appealed from there.' We don't know how it went missing. We trust them, we trust the law, and we act; we have no other power. Now the verdict has been overturned, and they have been ordered to be released. This is hard for the family. It's a second deat... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107315

tldr: Two men previously sentenced to life for Zawdu Haftu's brutal murder in Mekelle were acquitted after crucial digital evidence disappeared from court records, devastating the victim's family. The family expressed profound grief, calling the acquittal a "second death" and a new sorrow. #Crime @ByteTikvah