August 22 (EVN) — Disturbing reports have surfaced regarding the mass detention of Amhara leaders, journalists, ordinary citizens, and activists, with tens of thousands reportedly being held in what has been described as concentration camps. Thirty-four detainees, who were among those arbitrarily detained, have managed to smuggle out a letter addressing the international community, shedding light on their plight.
Signatories of the letter include notable figures such as Christian Tadesse, a Member of Parliament; Yohannes Boyalew, a senior leader of the Prosperity Party; and Dr. Kassa Teshager, a member of the Addis Ababa City Council. The letter voices their opposition to what they term as “incessant identity-based massacres, ethnic cleansing, mass deportations, and racial structural and systemic attacks,” being carried out by the government. They allege that these actions constitute gross violations of human rights.
The detainees assert that their Amharaness is being treated as a criminal offense without any justifiable cause, and they report being apprehended by government security forces from various regions.
Allegations of severe physical abuse, verbal mistreatment, and threats during detention by security forces are detailed. The detainees describe an environment of continuous torture and threats since their captivity by the Federal Criminal Investigation Bureau. This includes ethnic slurs, death threats, and confinement in dismal conditions.
The letter underscores concerns that the activities of armed security forces are exacerbating their vulnerability and infringing upon their right to life.
The detainees lament the complete restriction of their basic human rights, including the right to legal representation, access to court appearances, consultation with legal counsel, contact with religious leaders, and communication with family and visitors.
Seeking redress for these alleged human rights violations, the 34 signatories appeal to the Ministry of Justice to urgently address the grave situation and rectify the reported abuses.
