ADDIS ABABA, May 27 (Reuters) - Ethiopia's state-appointed human rights body called on Friday for the release of 16 journalists and media personnel after new arrests in recent days in the capital Addis Ababa and the restive region of Amhara. Press watchdogs and rights groups say Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government is increasingly intimidating the media and harassing opponents as it seeks to quell unrest in regions. Last week, Amhara authorities arrested five journalists of media outlet Ashara in a move thought linked to their coverage of a volunteer militia know as Fano. read moreOn the same day, Amhara authorities also arrested another four employees of U.S.-based online outlet Nisir International Broadcasting. read moreRights commission head Daniel Bekele said the total number of detained journalists was now 16 and urged their immediate release.

Source: Ethiopian News May 27, 2022 12:24 UTC