Addis Standard is a privately owned Ethiopian news outlet known for its critical reporting and independent voice. However, it has faced numerous challenges, including detentions of its staff, suspensions, and raids on its offices, highlighting the ongoing struggles for press freedom in Ethiopia.
History and Profile
Addis Standard has been a significant voice in Ethiopian media, providing coverage and analysis on a variety of issues. The magazine gained attention for its critical reporting and commitment to journalistic integrity.
Challenges to Press Freedom
In recent years, Addis Standard has faced significant challenges related to press freedom. International media watchdogs have noted a crackdown on the media, particularly since the conflict erupted in the Tigray region in November.
Detention of Staff
During the Tigray War, Medihane Ekubamichael, one of the Addis Standard editors involved in covering the Tigray Region, was detained for a month. After Addis Standard issued a statement in early November urging the government to open channels of communication, Medihane Ekubamichael, a senior editor, was arrested at his home for “attempts to dismantle the Constitution through violence” and “outrage against the Constitution”.
Suspension of Operations
Addis Standard news site was suspended by Ethiopia's media regulator.
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Raids and Confiscation of Equipment
Ethiopian police raided the privately owned news outlet Addis Standard’s office and an employee’s home, confiscating electronic devices and detaining three managers for several hours. Earlier that morning, police raided the home of an Addis Standard IT manager, who was assaulted in front of family members and taken to a police station in the capital’s Woreda 13, Lemi Kura Subcity, Tsedale said.
Addis Standard’s publisher, JAKENN Publishing PLC, expressed concern about how the seized devices might be used in custody. Federal police spokesperson Jeylan Abdi told CPJ via messaging app that he could not answer queries on a matter “currently pending in court.”
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is alarmed by these actions. According to CPJ Africa Program Coordinator Muthoki Mumo, “The Addis Standard raids are the latest moves in the Ethiopian government’s campaign to silence independent media. The confiscation of the outlet’s equipment raises grave concerns about potential misuse of sensitive data.”
Statements on Press Freedom
Various organizations and individuals have voiced concerns over the restrictions on press freedom in Ethiopia.
- CPJ: "The Addis Standard raids are the latest moves in the Ethiopian government’s campaign to silence independent media."
- A Reminder: Jailing journalists arbitrarily is enough, authorities should refrain from further press freedom attacks against the media !
- Importance of Free Press: Free press is essential part of democracy. A free press fights for the truth. Censorship, suppression and repression of the media only happens in authoritarian democracies.
Key People
- Tsedale Lemma: Editor-in-Chief of Addis Standard.
- Medihane Ekubamichael: Senior editor involved in covering the Tigray Region.
Tsedale Lemma, Editor-in-Chief of Addis Standard
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