Recent picture from a meeting with human right defenders February 2008
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Daniel Bekele -
Policy Manager, ActionAid Ethiopia

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Netsanet Demissie -
Director of the Organization for Social Justice in Ethiopia

Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie were arrested during major political unrest following the national elections of May 2005. In the aftermath of the demonstrations, tens of thousands of opposition Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) party members were detained without charge or trial, some for several months. In December 2005, 131 CUD leaders and officials, journalists and human rights defenders were put on trial (several in their absence) for political offences punishable by death or life imprisonment.

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In July 2007, a further 38 who had refused to present a defence, were convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment or long prison terms. These 38 were pardoned and released on 20 July with the agreement of the Prime Minister, Meles Zenawi, after they signed a letter apologizing for “mistakes” in regard to the demonstrations. A similar pattern of convictions, guilty pleas and pardons followed for the others who had been arrested. Both Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie pleaded not guilty and both presented their own defence in court.

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On 26 December 2007 the court announces prison sentences of two and a half years each. Since Daniel and Netsanet have already spent more than two years in detention, there should be a strong possibility to be freed on parole. However, this never happened. In contrast, the “attorney” opposes the ruling and intends to appeal their release which may result in long-term detention.

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Amnesty International believes them to be prisoners of conscience.
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Immediate Call !!
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To all Ethiopians & human rights defenders all over the world:
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Express your concern & join the call for unconditional & immediate release of Daniel and Netsanet !

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Seblework Tadesse

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