'Ethiopian public Diplomacy Network' (EPDN) Letter to the Secretary General of the @UN (@antonioguterres) RE: Crises in #Ethiopia "The dire circumstances in Ethiopia needs immediate attention" CC @JoeBiden, @MikeHammerUSA, @_AfricanUnion, @EUCouncil, @SenatorRisch, @SecBlinken

🚨 @AbiyAhmedAli 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐰𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝟓𝟑 𝐎𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐝𝐨𝐱 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐎𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐬 𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲𝐦𝐞𝐧, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐄𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐚 According to local sources, Ethiopian authorities have started arresting prominent Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church clergy and religious teachers in what observers believe is a crackdown on voices that publicly condemned the recent massacre of Orthodox Christians in Asko Woreda of East Arsi Zone, Oromia Region. The arrests follow reports that more than 53 Orthodox Christians were killed, over 280 remain missing, hundreds of homes were destroyed, and the historic 101-year-old Telata Chefa St. Gabriel Church was burned during a large-scale attack allegedly carried out by Oromo Liberation Army (OLA/Shene) militants against Orthodox Christian communities in East Arsi Zone between May 31st to June 2nd. Among those arrested is Deacon Zelalem Taye, a well-known young gospel preacher recognized for his teaching, counseling work, and extensive service to Orthodox Sunday schools. He was reportedly detained in Addis Ababa and is believed to have been targeted after writing about the killings of Christians in Arsi. Priest Getnet Aytenew, a prominent Orthodox priest known for his educational content on social media and his commentary on church affairs, was also reportedly arrested. Sources indicate his detention is linked to his writings regarding the massacre of Orthodox Christians in Arsi. Authorities also detained Priest Dr. Mezgebu Kassa, a respected theologian, researcher, author, and former Chief Executive Officer of EOTC TV. Dr. Mezgebu is known for numerous theological publications, including the book Betré Haymanot and the internationally published Theanthropic Ethics in Conversation with Autonomy and Heteronomy. He is being held at the Federal Police detention center in Mexico Square, Addis Ababa. In addition, Yeneta Betre Mariam Abebaw, a prominent Orthodox scholar and educator known for making traditional church teachings widely accessible through digital platforms, was arrested in Gonder City. He is the author of several widely circulated works on Orthodox theology, apologetics, and Ge’ez language studies. The arrests have generated concern among church followers and observers, who note that all four individuals are known primarily for religious teaching, theological scholarship, and public advocacy. Reports from multiple sources suggest that the detentions may be connected to their public statements and writings regarding the killings, destruction of churches, and humanitarian crisis affecting Orthodox Christian communities in East Arsi Zone. The wave of arrests comes amid growing criticism of the government’s response to the violence, with local sources alleging that survivors remain trapped in affected areas while humanitarian assistance faces significant obstacles in reaching displaced and wounded civilians.

53 Orthodox Christians killed. More than 280 still missing. Homes destroyed. A historic church burned. These are not just statistics. They are lives, families, and communities forever changed. Reports that clergy and religious educators may be facing detention after speaking about the tragedy deserve serious scrutiny and transparency. As part of Voice for the Voiceless, we will continue documenting evidence, preserving testimony, and amplifying the voices of victims and survivors. The dead deserve to be remembered. The missing deserve to be found. The truth deserves to be told. voices.ktinsight.com #VoiceForTheVoiceless #HumanRights #ReligiousFreedom #Ethiopia #Orthodox #EOTC @TuckerCarlson

#Ethiopia: The Oromo Islamists record themselves setting fire to and burning Orthodox Christian churches, as if they are accomplishing something meaningful. Gov’t forces never responded to Christians' calls for help and even denied that the incident had taken place.

The American Ethiiopian Public Affairs Committee ( AEPAC) applauds Pennsylvania House of Representatives recognition of Adawa. “AEPAC commends Representative Benjamin Sanchez and the bipartisan coalition of legislators who sponsored and supported HR 441. Their leadership reflects Pennsylvania's commitment to celebrating cultural diversity, promoting historical awareness, and recognizing the important contributions of Ethiopian Americans and the broader African diaspora”. Please read the entire press release. 👇🖇️🖇️ prlog.org/13150225-american-…

RT @Riseup4ethiopia: Orthodox worshippers were massacred in Arsi, and cadres, such as @Habtishgreat, rushed not to mourn or demand justice,…

American-Ethiopian Public Affairs Committee Endorses Jake Levine for Congress The American-Ethiopian Public Affairs Committee (AEPAC) is proud to announce its endorsement of Jake Levine for California’s 32nd Congressional District, identifying him as the clear choice following a careful review of the candidates seeking the office. AEPAC leadership cited Levine’s record of community service, including his relief efforts on behalf of survivors of the Palisades and Eaton Fires, as well as his strong work ethic, leadership qualities, and demonstrated commitment to building broad-based coalitions that bring communities together. Please find the full press release attached for additional details regarding AEPAC’s endorsement and the reasons for its support of Jake Levine’s candidacy. 👇🔗🔗 prlog.org/13148540-american-… @WhiteHouse @StateDept @USEmbassyAddis @UAEthio @UNOSAPG @VP @realDonaldTrump @TheIRD, @StateDRL, @AsstSecStateAF, @richghazal, @markdtooley, @OrthodoxyNews, @MikeHammerUSA, @USEmbassyAddis,@indefchristians,@RepJohnJames, @housegop, @Repsarajacobs, @YoungKimCA, @RepJimBaird, @CongressmanKean, @RepMillsPress, @RepGaramendi, @jakejsullivan, @IMFNews, @SecBlinken, @StateDept, @JusticeOfficeUS, @WorldBank, @WorldBankAfrica, @StateIRF, @USCIRF, @IrfSecretariat, @Sean_ADFIntl, @michaelgwaltz,@RepMarkWalker,@RepRileyMoore,@TomColeOk04,@HouseAppropsGOP

Escalating Repression in Ethiopia: The Targeting of Tewodros Kassahun (Teddy Afro) the Erosion of Civic Space The Ethiopian American Public Affairs Committee (AEPAC) expresses deep concern over the continued deterioration of civic and public space in Ethiopia, marked by widespread detentions, pressure on religious institutions, and recent actions affecting prominent cultural figures. Credible reports from human rights organizations indicate that more than 300 elected officials—including parliamentarians, journalists, and civil servants—have remained imprisoned for over two years, raising serious concerns about due process and the rule of law. Concurrently, there is increasing evidence of pressure on longstanding religious institutions, including the Ethiopian Orthodox Church—one of the world’s oldest Christian traditions—further signaling a contraction of fundamental freedoms and institutional independence. Recent developments involving Tewodros Kassahun (Teddy Afro), one of Ethiopia’s most influential cultural voices, further underscore these concerns. Since the release of his album Etorika, reports indicate that his studio has been looted and individuals associated with his organization have been detained. According to Deutsche Welle, several individuals connected to his team, including a close associate and marketing manager, are reportedly in custody. These developments come at a time when the government is preparing to conduct national elections. Observers have raised serious concerns about whether such conditions—marked by arrests, restrictions, reported intimidation, and ongoing armed conflict across several regions—can support a credible democratic process. International assessments, including global press freedom and civil liberties reports, continue to rank Ethiopia among countries facing significant challenges in these areas. AEPAC recognizes that the long-term resolution to Ethiopia’s complex political and social challenges ultimately rests with the Ethiopian people through inclusive and constructive dialogue. At the same time, international partners who are invested in regional stability should consider the following: Democratic legitimacy requires conditions of freedom — Elections conducted amid mass detentions, intimidation, and restricted civic space risk undermining credibility and public trust. Allegations of large-scale financial misconduct demand scrutiny — As reported by Addis Reporter, an estimated 100 billion birr has reportedly been diverted from government coffers through coordinated schemes. If substantiated, this represents a profound breach of public trust and a direct loss of resources intended to serve the Ethiopian people. Entrenched high-level corruption undermines governance — Systemic corruption at the highest levels erodes institutional integrity, weakens the rule of law, and diminishes public confidence in government. Accountability is essential for stability — Sustained governance without accountability erodes institutions, fuels long-term instability, and ultimately compromises national cohesion. Protection of civil society and cultural voices matters — Actions affecting artists, journalists, and religious institutions signal broader constraints on freedom of expression. Advancing business interests cannot occur in a vacuum — Economic engagement is sustainable only when grounded in stability, rule of law, and accountable leadership —not in environments marked by ongoing abuses without consequence. Policy alignment is critical — Western nations seeking regional stability should prioritize policies that reinforce transparency, human rights, and responsible governance. As part of this broader engagement, AEPAC encourages the U.S. Congress to consider measures such as House Resolution 937 as one avenue to express its position and support democratic principles, accountability, and the protection of fundamental rights in Ethiopia. 👇👇🔗🖇️ facebook.com/share/1DpdB2FGC… @WhiteHouse @StateDept @USEmbassyAddis @UAEthio @UNOSAPG @VP @realDonaldTrump @TheIRD, @StateDRL, @AsstSecStateAF, @richghazal, @markdtooley, @OrthodoxyNews, @MikeHammerUSA, @USEmbassyAddis @indefchristians,@RepJohnJames,@housegop, @Repsarajacobs, @YoungKimCA, @RepJimBaird, @CongressmanKean,@RepMillsPress, @RepGaramendi,@jakejsullivan, @IMFNews, @SecBlinken, @StateDept, @JusticeOfficeUS, @WorldBank, @WorldBankAfrica, @StateIRF, @USCIRF, @IrfSecretariat, @Sean_ADFIntl,@michaelgwaltz,@RepMarkWalker,@RepRileyMoore,@TomColeOk04,@HouseAppropsGOP

Press Statement The Centre for Human Rights is gravely concerned by reports of harassment and arrests linked to Ethiopian artist Teddy Afro following the release of his album Etorika. Artistic freedom must be protected. Read the full statement: chr.up.ac.za/press-statement…

RT @TheFitawrari: “He (Abiy Ahmed) is telling the world the 2026 elections will become the most democratic in history but @TheEconomist is…

The European Union should adopt clear enforceable human rights benchmarks in its engagement with Ethiopia, so recent diplomatic and financial normalization doesn't undermine accountability efforts regarding abuses in the Tigray, Oromia, and Amhara regions. trib.al/eCnvWTp

Ethiopia’s Election Illusion Exposed According to a report by The Economist titled “Abiy Ahmed is throttling free expression in Ethiopia,” the country is facing serious democratic backsliding under Abiy Ahmed. Once praised as a reformer, his government now suppresses opposition, restricts independent media like Addis Standard, and targets journalists with arrests, intimidation, and disappearances—undermining claims of a free and fair election. These developments raise urgent concerns for U.S. policymakers regarding human rights, rule of law, and stability in a key Horn of Africa partner. Congress should act by passing H.Res. 937 and urging the State Department to press for the protection of civil liberties, release of detained journalists, and credible democratic processes. AEPAC recognizes that the ultimate resolution of Ethiopia’s challenges rests with the Ethiopian people. However, the U.S. Congress can play a constructive role in supporting Africa’s second most populous nation by advancing principled legislation and reinforcing democratic norms. 👇🔗🖇️ economist.com/middle-east-an… @WhiteHouse @StateDept @USEmbassyAddis @UAEthio @UNOSAPG @VP @realDonaldTrump @TheIRD, @StateDRL, @AsstSecStateAF, @richghazal, @markdtooley, @OrthodoxyNews, @USEmbassyAddis @indefchristians, @RepJohnJames, @housegop, @Repsarajacobs, @YoungKimCA, @RepJimBaird, @CongressmanKean, @RepMillsPress, @RepGaramendi, @jakejsullivan, @IMFNews, @SecBlinken, @StateDept, @JusticeOfficeUS, @WorldBank, @WorldBankAfrica, @StateIRF, @USCIRF, @IrfSecretariat, @Sean_ADFIntl, @michaelgwaltz,@RepMarkWalker,@RepRileyMoore,@TomColeOk04,@HouseAppropsGOP

Ethiopia: reports suggest that a majority of citizens refused to register for the coming election, arguing that participation would legitimise a sham. The regime nevertheless denied them basic services while recording their names from official archives to inflate participation

Ethiopia’s prime minister says the next election will be the most open and democratic in the country’s history. In reality it will be a sham. Discover the full story: register to read for free economist.com/middle-east-an…

My interview on @GlobalPowerShifts with @JimStenman divided in two parts. This one addresses Horn of Africa dynamics - Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somaliland, etc. While world focuses elsewhere, trouble is brewing in this critically important region. youtube.com/watch?v=WGpdl3Qp…

Have you notice, @addisstandard did not say a word, despite the clear violations of free expression and artistic freedom on Teddy Afro. His songs have made shockwaves across Ethiopia even for BBC World to give him coverage.

Building a $12.5B mega airport in Ethiopia won’t fix intra-African air travel. The issue isn’t terminal capacity. It’s weak route networks, restrictive bilateral agreements, low frequencies, and poor airline coordination. Africans don’t transit via Dubai or Europe because African airports are small. They do so because those hubs offer better connectivity, frequency, and reliability. Until we fully implement open skies (SAATM) and strengthen inter-African airline networks, even the biggest airport won’t change how Africa flies.

The #Ethiopian government is engaging in oppressive actions against individuals utilizing their artistic expression to voice the pressing issues faced by the nation. #TeddyAfro ‘s recently released song serves as a powerful call for unity among the Ethiopian people. It highlights the severe impacts of ongoing conflicts and internal displacement that have plagued Ethiopia for the past eight years. The song's poignant lyrics, reflecting frustration and underline the betrayal and silencing of voices, depicting the nation as crumbling under deceit and turmoil. Despite these challenges, there is a resolute call to continue cherishing and raising the national flag, reflecting an undying allegiance to Ethiopia's heritage and future. In a troubling escalation, Teddy Afro's private studio was raided by federal police during a violent nighttime intrusion. This illegal act, occurring around 9:00 PM local time, involved the severe beating of the building's security guard to gain access, bypassing legal protocols and raising serious concerns about the integrity of the country’s justice system. The intruders confiscated vital equipment, including two laptops and music production tools, posing a grave threat to Afro's unreleased intellectual property. Furthermore, his manager and a close friend have been imprisoned, with his house reportedly surrounded, aiming to instill fear and psychological distress. The systematic suppression of free speech, exemplified by the detention of journalists and opposition figures, starkly contradicts the democratic facade the government attempts to present, especially in light of upcoming #elections. Despite these transgressions, the international community, including human rights organizations, remains largely silent on the violations orchestrated by the Ethiopian authorities, a situation that demands urgent and unwavering condemnation. @UNOSAPG @UN @UN_Spokesperson @marcorubio @StateDept @TheDemocrats @AsstSecStateAF @antonioguterres @hrcoethio @hrw @AmnestyEARO @amnestyusa @amnesty @AngeliqueKidjo