3 August 2026

The Human Rights Forum (HRF) expresses its deep concern over the arbitrary arrest of four prominent Ethiopian figures known for their commitment to freedom of expression, human rights, and democratic participation. These arrests reflect the continued shrinking of civic space and the increasing repression of fundamental freedoms across Ethiopia.

Individuals Arbitrarily Arrested

The Human Rights Forum has received credible information regarding the arbitrary arrest of the following individuals: Teum Alemu, a journalist and active social media writer based in Mekelle, Tigray. Mearg Amare, an elderly war-disabled veteran and social media commentator based in Mekelle. He lives with severe physical disabilities and hearing impairment resulting from his military service. Abra Nigus, a prominent defense lawyer and human rights advocate based in Addis Ababa, widely recognized for providing free legal representation to political prisoners. Yisak Welday, Head of Public Relations and Media and Executive Committee member of the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP), a legally registered opposition political party based in Addis Ababa.

Understanding what happened in Ethiopia

Since 2018, Ethiopia has experienced prolonged political instability, armed conflict, and an increasingly restrictive environment for civil liberties.The Tigray region, which suffered devastating consequences during the 2020–2022 armed conflict, continues to face serious humanitarian and governance challenges despite the signing of the Pretoria Peace Agreement in late 2022. Much of its infrastructure, economy, and public services remain severely affected.Reports indicate that journalists, civil society actors, lawyers, and political opponents continue to face intimidation, arbitrary detention, and other forms of repression.In Mekelle, local authorities have reportedly targeted journalists and independent commentators, including Teum Alemu and Mearg Amare. In Addis Ababa, federal authorities have reportedly arrested legal professionals and opposition political leaders, including Abra Nigus and Yisak Welday, in what appears to be an effort to suppress dissent and silence critical voices.These arrests represent a troubling pattern of attacks against freedom of expression, press freedom, access to justice, and political participation.

Human Rights Forum’s Concerns

The Human Rights Forum recalls that freedom of expression, freedom of the press, the right to a fair trial, and freedom of association are protected under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and other international human rights instruments binding on Ethiopia.The Human Rights Forum is particularly concerned about the health and safety of Mearg Amare, whose advanced age, severe physical disabilities, and hearing impairment require immediate access to appropriate medical care, family members, and legal counsel.

Calls for Immediate Action

The Human Rights Forum calls upon the Ethiopian authorities to: Immediately and unconditionally release Teum Alemu, Mearg Amare, Abra Nigus, and Yisak Welday if they are being detained solely for peacefully exercising their fundamental rights; Guarantee their physical and psychological integrity and provide immediate access to legal representation, family members, and necessary medical care; Ensure full respect for due process and fair trial guarantees in accordance with Ethiopia’s international human rights obligations;End the practice of arbitrary arrests and harassment targeting journalists, lawyers, human rights defenders, and political opposition members.The Human Rights Forum further urges the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), the relevant United Nations Special Rapporteurs, and the broader international community to closely monitor these cases and take appropriate diplomatic and legal measures to ensure the protection of the victims and the respect of fundamental freedoms in Ethiopia.The Human Rights Forum will continue to monitor developments closely and remains committed to documenting human rights violations and advocating for justice, accountability, and the protection of civic freedoms in Ethiopia.