January 09, 2018

Ethiopia needs more than closure of detention centres to uphold human rights

located:	Ethiopia
editor:	Bob Koigi

Maekelawi detention centre, tucked in Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa, might not mean much to the world. But to thousands of activists, journalists, opposition figures and government critics in the country, it embodies fear, terror and memories of the painful journey and the ultimate price they have paid in their quest for truth and justice.

That is why the Ethiopian Prime Minister's recent announcement that the centre is set to closed and all political prisoners released, has heralded a new human rights chapter and a fresh start in a country where democracy and human rights are alien.

Voices like that of Atnaf Berhane, a blogger and human rights activist who was once held in the centre for three months have given the world a sense of what goes on behind its walls. Having been charged with terrorism for his daring criticism of the government, he was incarcerated in a dark cell and questioned for up to eight hours daily.

While the closure is a step in the right direction for national healing and reconciliation, it must be followed by even bolder and honest measures if true national dialogue is to be achieved. Thorough and independent investigations into forced disappearances and torture that have become commonplace since early 90s must be conducted and perpetrators brought to justice.

This should be followed by an overhaul of the repressive laws, among them the Anti-Terrorism Proclamation, a draconian law that has seen the killing, torturing and jailing of thousands of dissenting voices, with many having to flee the country. Ultimately, political and human rights reforms need to be put in place, including a robust free speech regime, curtailing of military power and inclusion of marginalised communities into the national debate, all of which will ensure that the closure of the centre is not just a hollow gesture.

Photo: DigitalGlobe 2013; Source Google Earth