ByteTikvah

"Closed houses must at least pay meter rent" - Engineer Getu GeremewThe Ethiopian Electric Utility announced that "there is no new tariff adjustment added" beyond the tariff revision announced two years ago.In an explanation given by the institution's CEO, Engineer Getu Geremew, regarding questions raised by customers concerning tariff increases, he stated that the tariff revision, made after 18 years, was decided to be implemented quarterly over four years to avoid creating significant pressure on the public.Accordingly, he explained that the second phase of implementation is currently halfway through, and what is being paid now is according to the previously set plan, not a newly added tariff.What did CEO Engineer Getu Geremew say?"Low-income customers who use less than 50 kilowatt-hours per month (more than 50% of them) will have more than 50% of their payment covered (subsidized) by the institution."Although it costs between 6.5 and 7 US cents to generate and distribute 1 kilowatt of electricity, it is being sold to the service user for less than 2 US cents, causing the institution to incur significant losses.Most meters are old, leading to human errors during readings; customers might be charged for more than they used. The institution is receiving complaints and working to correct them."Even if closed houses have '0' electricity consumption, they will receive bills and must pay for meter service/rent (single or three-phase), as this charge is applicable to them."The institution is allocating an additional budget of over 118.9 billion Birr from what it collected in the fiscal year, working with up to 133 billion Birr for electricity infrastructure development and rural electricity expansion.When calculating that one household has an average of 4.5 to 5 family members, there are between 25 and 30 million households in our country, but only about 6 million have been reached so far.Therefore, to fill this large supply gap and become more accessible, numerous domestic capacity-building projects are underway to reach over 10 million new users in the next 10 years.Tikvah EthiopiaAddis AbabaAugust 3, 2018 E.C.@tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107380

tldr: Ethiopian Electric Utility clarified no new tariff hikes, confirming the ongoing 4-year plan, subsidies for low-income users, and meter rent for closed homes. #Business @ByteTikvah

The Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU) announced that over 570 million Birr worth of electrical infrastructure damage occurred in the 2018 Ethiopian fiscal year due to theft and property vandalism. According to the institution's CEO, Engineer Getu Geremew, the damage includes cutting and stealing transformers, electricity distribution lines, and underground cable lines. The institution collected 118.9 billion Birr in revenue from power sales and other services during the fiscal year, achieving 102.6 percent of its plan. From this revenue, 13.9 billion Birr was paid to the government as tax, and 76.42 million Birr was allocated for social responsibility. Additionally, it connected 638,505 new customers to the electricity grid, and preparations are underway for over 450,000 new customers to receive meters. Among the challenges the service faced during the fiscal year were fuel shortages, power theft, infrastructure theft and damage, limited capacity of distribution stations, and network aging. A project to replace old electricity protection lines, costing 55 million USD, has reached 60.12 percent completion. It also announced plans to connect 1.1 million new customers to the electricity grid in the 2019 Ethiopian fiscal year. Tikvah Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, August 3, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107378

tldr: Ethiopian Electric Utility reported over 570 million Birr in infrastructure damage due to theft and vandalism in 2018 E.C., while achieving 102.6% of its 118.9 billion Birr revenue target. #Business @ByteTikvah

Sket Bank increased its total assets by 51% to 29 billion Birr. Sket Bank held its annual management conference today, August 02, 2018 E.C., focusing on the 2025/26 fiscal year performance review and the 2026/27 strategic plan. As stated in the general performance report presented during the discussion, the bank managed to increase its total capital to 10.3 billion Birr in the concluded fiscal year, and its paid-up capital to 7.9 billion Birr. Additionally, it collected 14.7 billion Birr in deposit mobilization during the fiscal year. Consequently, it generated a total income of 4.1 billion Birr in the fiscal year, achieving a pre-tax profit of over 1.54 billion Birr, and increasing its total assets to 29 billion Birr. Mr. Damtew Alemayehu, the bank's CEO, who was present at the event, stated that the fiscal year concluded successfully. He further announced that in the 2026/27 fiscal year, the bank plans to work on developing strategic plans to further enhance its competitiveness, expand digital banking services, and improve service options for customers. Finally, trophies and certificates were awarded to districts, branches, and employees who achieved outstanding performance during the fiscal year. Sket Bank: The foundation of your success! Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107373

tldr: Sket Bank's total assets grew by 51% to 29 billion Birr, reporting over 1.54 billion Birr in pre-tax profit for the past fiscal year. #Business @ByteTikvah

#Senegal🇸🇳Senegal, enforcing its strict law against homosexuality enacted months ago, has arrested 71 men for "unnatural acts" and brought them to court.It is reported that in recent months alone, over 100 people have been arrested on similar homosexuality charges. Among them are said to be prominent figures in the country.In Senegal, the strict law amended last March imposes up to 10 years imprisonment for homosexual relations. In addition to imprisonment, there is a heavy fine.The law allows individuals who promote or financially support homosexuality to be punished with imprisonment ranging from 3 to 7 years.Any act that encourages this "abhorrent" act is considered a crime.August 8, 2026@tikvahethiopia @thiqaheth Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107372

tldr: Senegal arrested 71 men for "unnatural acts" under its strict anti-homosexuality law, with over 100 total arrests recently. The law, amended in March, carries up to 10 years imprisonment. #Politics @ByteTikvah

The administration of the Head of Monasteries and Convents, Holy Axum Tsion, announced that a prayer ceremony (Mihla) will be held continuously for the next 14 days in connection with the Fast of Filseta le Mariam (Assumption of Mary). In a message conveyed by the church's administration, it called on male and female congregants to jointly implore their Creator through prayer and supplication. It also urged Ethiopian Orthodox faithful, both near and far, to persevere and cooperate in prayer. "May the Almighty God receive our prayers and supplications; may He send peace and mercy to our country and our people," it conveyed its spiritual wish. Tikvah Ethiopia Nehase 2, 2018 E.C. @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107370

tldr: The administration of Holy Axum Tsion announced a 14-day prayer ceremony (Mihla) for the Fast of Filseta le Mariam. It urged all Ethiopian Orthodox faithful, both near and far, to unite in prayer and supplication. The spiritual wish is for God to grant peace and mercy to the country and its people. #Culture @ByteTikvah

#NationalDialogue🇪🇹The Issue of Addis Ababa"The constitution should recognize Addis Ababa as the seat of Oromia" - due to a lack of agreement on this new agenda item, the participants dispersed and reconvened for Monday.It is known that the committee presenting the minutes to the 500 consultants has been called for discussion tomorrow.Regarding the issue of Addis Ababa, the new agenda, "The constitution should recognize Addis Ababa as the seat of Oromia," proposed by Oromia politicians, was raised by the "strategic" group organized with 250 people, not by the consultants organized at the 10 and 50-person levels. This agenda continued to be contentious today, leading to the dispersal of the 500 participants and the postponement of the matter until Monday.30 idea formulators, 15 from each of the two "strategic" groups of 250 people, were expected to finalize the new Addis Ababa agenda and present it to the 500 consultants today.Since the issue is contentious, it had recently caused participants to walk out of the assembly. Today, the 30 idea formulators failed to reach an agreement, and the participants told Tikvah Ethiopia that they dispersed without the proposal being read to them.One participant told us, "The Addis Ababa issue was suspended again today. Since no agreement was reached, the participants dispersed. The 30 did not agree among themselves."They added, "Due to the failure to reach an agreement on the proposal by Oromia politicians that 'Addis Ababa should be recognized by the constitution as the seat of Oromia,' the matter has been postponed until Monday."Another participant in the federal cities agenda and one of the idea formulators selected from the strategic group told Tikvah Ethiopia that no agreement was reached on the minutes today, so it was not read to the participants.They stated that the 30 people preparing the minutes needed to reach an agreement, but "since we didn't reach an agreement, we told the participants there was nothing to read to them."They also told us, "We had hoped it would be presented this afternoon, but since the 30 couldn't agree, the 500 dispersed."Tikvah Ethiopia observed participants of the federal cities agenda leaving the assembly hall this afternoon, mentioning that the minutes were incomplete, not read, and postponed until Monday.What primarily caused the disagreement among the consultants?One of the participants who gave us an explanation stated that while they had agreed on many things, the idea came up that "the city should serve as the capital for both the federal government and the Oromia regional government."They explained that this continued to be contentious among the discussants, with arguments like "'It's difficult to manage one city accountable to two entities'" and "'It's not difficult; it can be done.'"Participants from outside the Oromia region expressed concern, stating that the proposal "Addis Ababa should be the capital of Oromia" is not just about the capital but also a question of ownership. They argued that this would restrict the rights of the city's residents, as while it's considered a city of nations and nationalities, giving it entirely to one nationality would restrict the rights of others.Participants representing Oromia, however, indicated that they raised the idea that "'The Oromia regional government is already operating with its seat here in Addis Ababa. So it's not a concern; it's a matter of recognizing an existing fact.'"In response to this idea, it was stated that the counter-argument was raised that "determining the capital city for regions is not the job of the federal government. This is decided by the regional council. You have already decided this through the Chaffe Council before. But it is not appropriate... Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107368

tldr: A national dialogue on Addis Ababa's constitutional recognition as Oromia's seat adjourned due to persistent disagreement, postponing the issue to Monday. #Politics @ByteTikvah

In Aleta Wondo, 7 people died in two accidents that occurred at the same place and time. In Aleta Wondo, Bultuma Olira Kebele, Southern Sidama Zone, on August 1, 2018 E.C., around 2:30 PM, 7 people lost their lives in two traffic accidents that occurred at the same place and time. An Ural vehicle with plate number EFP 1190, carrying 13 Federal Police members and traveling from Borena to Hawassa, veered off the road and overturned, killing 6 police members. In the other accident, a Sinotruk collided with an Isuzu and crashed into a residential house, killing one pedestrian. The injured from the accidents are receiving treatment at Hawassa Referral Hospital, and the Sidama Regional Police stated that there was extensive damage to both people and property. (Sidama Police) @tikvahethiopia Original Post: https://t.me/tikvahethiopia/107366

tldr: Seven people died in two simultaneous traffic accidents in Aleta Wondo, Sidama Zone, including six federal police officers and one pedestrian. The injured are receiving treatment at Hawassa Referral Hospital. #Local @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