ADDIS ABABA: In a surprise move, Ethiopia’s leader on Wednesday announced plans to drop charges against political prisoners and close a notorious prison camp in what he called an effort to “widen the democratic space for all.” This is the first time the government has acknowledged holding political prisoners. “Political prisoners that are facing prosecutions and are already under arrest will be released,” Hailemariam said. “In fact, there’s a clear difference between political prisoners and politicians in prison,” said Amha Mekonnen, a lawyer for well-known jailed politician Bekele Gerba. “But I believe those in detention are political prisoners. While the plans to close the Maekelawi camp are welcome, “the closure must not be used to whitewash the horrifying events that have taken place there,” Fisseha said.

Source: Ethiopian News January 04, 2018 00:00 UTC