A committee established to inquire about the whereabouts of renowned Ethiopian writer and former Fano group leader, Asegid Mekonnen, has issued an urgent appeal for his safe release after more than a year in enforced disappearance.
Asegid, the author of 13 books who has advocated for the rights of Amharas for over 30 years, was arrested by Ethiopian authorities in July 2023. He was later featured in a government video appearing to “surrender” under circumstances that the committee said suggest coercion.
The committee stated that Asegid has not been brought before a court of law, and his whereabouts and condition remain unknown.
“The committee is calling on relevant authorities to take immediate action to ensure his safety,” it said in a statement.
The committee’s key demands include an investigation into Asegid’s case, clarity on his legal status, and for the Ethiopian government to either present him before a court or release him without conditions. It also called for the protection of his family from harassment and for the monitoring of patterns of enforced disappearances and arbitrary detentions in Ethiopia.
“The committee believes that international attention and pressure are crucial to ensuring accountability in Asegid’s case and preventing further human rights violations,” the statement said.
To amplify the call, the committee announced it would launch a two-day social media campaign with the hashtag “Where is Asegid Mekonnen?”
