EZEMA Party Condemns Government's 'Unlawful' Detention of Youth, Calls for Accountability

"This act is an unacceptable and outrageous action that should not be expected from a body entrusted with governing the people," said EZEMA Party.

In a statement issued by EZEMA, the party explained, "In the past few days, we have learned from families and various sources that youth in different parts of Addis Ababa have been detained by government security forces, their whereabouts unknown."

"What makes this government action even more appalling is the fact that the families of these detained youth are unable to locate them, even after searching places where they suspect their loved ones might be held," the statement continued.

"Furthermore, some of these youth have returned home suddenly after being detained for several days, unable to explain where they were or what happened to them," the party added.

The party stated, "This is not a lawful action taken by the government to bring accountable bodies under control, but rather a form of oppression carried out like banditry. We wish to emphasize that such an act is an unacceptable and outrageous action that should not be expected from a body entrusted with governing the people."

The party confirmed that there are still youth undergoing such oppression, and their families are in deep distress.

In its statement, the party demanded, "The government must publicly disclose the whereabouts of the youth it has detained."

"If the detained youth are accused of crimes, the charges should be presented openly, and their right to defend themselves must be respected. Otherwise, they should be released immediately," the party asserted.

"The families of the detained youth should be allowed to visit them, legal representation should be provided, and necessary protections must be ensured," the statement added.

The party also called for accountability, stating, "We urge that the illegal actions of government bodies, including the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and other government institutions, be investigated to ensure accountability and the rule of law."

"Failure to do so will be seen as condoning lawlessness, providing cover for illegal actions, and endorsing such behavior," the party warned.

EZEMA also called on the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission to hold the responsible bodies accountable regarding this matter.