#Oromia prosecutor with visual impairment allegedly abducted by armed group
The Oromia Public Prosecutors Association reported that a visually impaired prosecutor, Shibiru Guta Megersa, was allegedly abducted by an armed group on 8 December 2025 while traveling from Tulu Bolo town toward Ginchi in the #West_Shewa Zone of Oromia Region.
In a statement issued on 10 December, the Association said Shibiru, who joined the Justice Office in October 2023, was returning by car to Dendi Woreda after visiting his mother in Becho Woreda when the incident reportedly occurred. The Association described him as a disciplined employee who “diligently served the public.”
The statement emphasized that Shibiru is visually impaired and called the alleged abduction “unacceptable legally and morally,” noting that both national & international laws require special protection for persons with disabilities...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02kRjiygpDUPtb3F1LQxft9bFcRH4xGrZKqYRj5ucZ1osoqUdN3BAha7DyDgidYTrnl
The Oromia Public Prosecutors Association reported that a visually impaired prosecutor, Shibiru Guta Megersa, was allegedly abducted by an armed group on 8 December 2025 while traveling from Tulu Bolo town toward Ginchi in the #West_Shewa Zone of Oromia Region.
In a statement issued on 10 December, the Association said Shibiru, who joined the Justice Office in October 2023, was returning by car to Dendi Woreda after visiting his mother in Becho Woreda when the incident reportedly occurred. The Association described him as a disciplined employee who “diligently served the public.”
The statement emphasized that Shibiru is visually impaired and called the alleged abduction “unacceptable legally and morally,” noting that both national & international laws require special protection for persons with disabilities...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02kRjiygpDUPtb3F1LQxft9bFcRH4xGrZKqYRj5ucZ1osoqUdN3BAha7DyDgidYTrnl
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#Ethiopian Media Authority lifts ban on seven #Deutsche_Welle journalists, two remain permanently suspended
The Ethiopian Media Authority (#EMA) has lifted the ban on seven of Deutsche Welle’s nine reporters operating in Ethiopia, the international broadcaster announced, while two journalists remain permanently suspended.
Deutsche Welle said it received notice from the EMA confirming the permanent suspension of its two employees and “strongly condemned the action.”
The station also indicated that it has repeatedly requested the EMA to provide evidence supporting its claims that certain reports contained errors or violated Ethiopian law.
The temporary ban, which prevented the journalists from reporting across Ethiopia, was initially imposed on 23 October 2025. At the time, Deutsche Welle stated on its official Facebook page that the EMA had accused the station and its journalists of...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02rojwvKrenquVJSuyFne2eG1AFxizAmfpiK2uwySLjMkJU763yYTcEHz5kFjXxhral
The Ethiopian Media Authority (#EMA) has lifted the ban on seven of Deutsche Welle’s nine reporters operating in Ethiopia, the international broadcaster announced, while two journalists remain permanently suspended.
Deutsche Welle said it received notice from the EMA confirming the permanent suspension of its two employees and “strongly condemned the action.”
The station also indicated that it has repeatedly requested the EMA to provide evidence supporting its claims that certain reports contained errors or violated Ethiopian law.
The temporary ban, which prevented the journalists from reporting across Ethiopia, was initially imposed on 23 October 2025. At the time, Deutsche Welle stated on its official Facebook page that the EMA had accused the station and its journalists of...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02rojwvKrenquVJSuyFne2eG1AFxizAmfpiK2uwySLjMkJU763yYTcEHz5kFjXxhral
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#Ethiopia: CPJ urges release of TikTok journalist Eyob Shimelis detained for corruption reporting
The Committee to Protect Journalists (#CPJ) has called on Ethiopian authorities to immediately release TikTok journalist Eyob Shimelis, who has been detained since 1 December on allegations of spreading false information and defamation.
Eyob, founder of the TikTok-based outlet #Sidama News, which reports on corruption in the Sidama Region, was arrested outside his home in #Hawassa and taken to Addis Ketema Sub-City Police Station in Addis Abeba, according to two individuals familiar with the case who spoke to CPJ on condition of anonymity. They said police questioned him about recent reports alleging abuses by regional officials.
“It is alarming that a journalist exposing alleged corruption is being met with arrests and intimidation,” CPJ Africa Program Coordinator Muthoki Mumo said. ....
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0Jco6LwZZk4fUSMBDHL5gutPLLq1buY5ow9vVMsLtYcPb7q2R6ceMSnueFEPUMSmql
The Committee to Protect Journalists (#CPJ) has called on Ethiopian authorities to immediately release TikTok journalist Eyob Shimelis, who has been detained since 1 December on allegations of spreading false information and defamation.
Eyob, founder of the TikTok-based outlet #Sidama News, which reports on corruption in the Sidama Region, was arrested outside his home in #Hawassa and taken to Addis Ketema Sub-City Police Station in Addis Abeba, according to two individuals familiar with the case who spoke to CPJ on condition of anonymity. They said police questioned him about recent reports alleging abuses by regional officials.
“It is alarming that a journalist exposing alleged corruption is being met with arrests and intimidation,” CPJ Africa Program Coordinator Muthoki Mumo said. ....
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0Jco6LwZZk4fUSMBDHL5gutPLLq1buY5ow9vVMsLtYcPb7q2R6ceMSnueFEPUMSmql
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#African Rights Commission opens proceedings on RSADO petition accusing #Eritrea of abuses against #Afar community
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (#ACHPR) has formally seized & registered a human rights complaint filed by the Red Sea Afar Democratic Organization (#RSADO) against the State of Eritrea, the group said in a statement.
RSADO said the Commission confirmed its decision through official correspondence, designating the case Red Sea Afar Democratic Organization v. The State of Eritrea.
The complaint, submitted on 4 June 2025, alleges widespread and systematic violations against the Indigenous Red Sea Afar people in Eritrea’s #Dankalia region.
According to RSADO, the Afar community has long faced “state-engineered” abuses, including displacement, persecution, extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and the confiscation of ancestral lands along the...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0oto2C2BU31GCzEMjLr73e9tzV9pCcjiPCTx9g4DHrUKVnwhFkoxbtyymdX6oKjTnl
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (#ACHPR) has formally seized & registered a human rights complaint filed by the Red Sea Afar Democratic Organization (#RSADO) against the State of Eritrea, the group said in a statement.
RSADO said the Commission confirmed its decision through official correspondence, designating the case Red Sea Afar Democratic Organization v. The State of Eritrea.
The complaint, submitted on 4 June 2025, alleges widespread and systematic violations against the Indigenous Red Sea Afar people in Eritrea’s #Dankalia region.
According to RSADO, the Afar community has long faced “state-engineered” abuses, including displacement, persecution, extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and the confiscation of ancestral lands along the...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0oto2C2BU31GCzEMjLr73e9tzV9pCcjiPCTx9g4DHrUKVnwhFkoxbtyymdX6oKjTnl
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#UN chief to meet #Sudan's warring parties in #Geneva
United Nations officials are to meet with Sudan's warring parties in Geneva, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told Saudi broadcaster Al Arabiya in Riyadh on Thursday, without disclosing a date for the discussions.
Since April of 2023, the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been locked in a conflict that has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced 12 million more.
"We will be having in Geneva meetings with both sides," Guterres said in the televised interview.
The war prompted global outcry in October, as reports of mass atrocities emerged after the RSF seized the city of El-Fasher - the army's last stronghold in the western Darfur region - following a bitter 18-month siege.
Guterres also said the UN had been promised access "in the very near future" to El-Fasher, which remains cut off from communications, with the RSF controlling access to Starlink satellite services.
"Nobody behaves well but there is one side that clearly is committing atrocities of the worst character, and that's the RSF," the secretary-general added.
Asked about the prospect of dialogue, UN spokesman Farhan Haq said in New York that the body currently envisions "technical-level talks" between the sides, adding "we're hopeful that we can move ahead".
"And certainly the importance of technical-level talks is to pave the ground for something more productive down the line," he said.
Guterres had met with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Wednesday.
Hopes for a breakthrough in talks on Sudan's war were rekindled last month when US President Donald Trump said he would help end the conflict after Prince Mohammed urged him to intervene during a visit to Washington.
Saudi Arabia is a member of the so-called Quad of four mediating nations that has intensified efforts for peace in Sudan in recent months.
Along with the US, the grouping also includes Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, two key Washington allies seen to wield the most influence over the warring sides.
https://www.newarab.com/news/un-chief-meet-sudans-warring-parties-geneva
United Nations officials are to meet with Sudan's warring parties in Geneva, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told Saudi broadcaster Al Arabiya in Riyadh on Thursday, without disclosing a date for the discussions.
Since April of 2023, the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been locked in a conflict that has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced 12 million more.
"We will be having in Geneva meetings with both sides," Guterres said in the televised interview.
The war prompted global outcry in October, as reports of mass atrocities emerged after the RSF seized the city of El-Fasher - the army's last stronghold in the western Darfur region - following a bitter 18-month siege.
Guterres also said the UN had been promised access "in the very near future" to El-Fasher, which remains cut off from communications, with the RSF controlling access to Starlink satellite services.
"Nobody behaves well but there is one side that clearly is committing atrocities of the worst character, and that's the RSF," the secretary-general added.
Asked about the prospect of dialogue, UN spokesman Farhan Haq said in New York that the body currently envisions "technical-level talks" between the sides, adding "we're hopeful that we can move ahead".
"And certainly the importance of technical-level talks is to pave the ground for something more productive down the line," he said.
Guterres had met with Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Wednesday.
Hopes for a breakthrough in talks on Sudan's war were rekindled last month when US President Donald Trump said he would help end the conflict after Prince Mohammed urged him to intervene during a visit to Washington.
Saudi Arabia is a member of the so-called Quad of four mediating nations that has intensified efforts for peace in Sudan in recent months.
Along with the US, the grouping also includes Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, two key Washington allies seen to wield the most influence over the warring sides.
https://www.newarab.com/news/un-chief-meet-sudans-warring-parties-geneva
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#Ethiopia imports much more from #China than it used to — as do many other African countries
Ethiopia’s import patterns have shifted dramatically over the past three decades, reflecting a wider global trend in which China has become a central player in merchandise trade, according to data from ourworldindata.org, a project of the Global Change Data Lab, a UK-based nonprofit.
In the early 1990s, more than 40% of Ethiopia’s imports came from Europe, while imports from China were negligible. Today, those positions have almost reversed: China now accounts for about one-third of all goods Ethiopia imports, illustrating the country’s growing reliance on Asian markets.
The shift mirrors changes across Africa and South America, where Europe & North America once dominated import flows. Asia is now the largest source of imports for both regions, driven primarily by China’s rapid economic rise...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02rEyh5XSGHFg2SoTQnwzyjgtBHwpih6hTVteoMnzmGRrXzo5XjNPVV7QtWeAhczdSl
Ethiopia’s import patterns have shifted dramatically over the past three decades, reflecting a wider global trend in which China has become a central player in merchandise trade, according to data from ourworldindata.org, a project of the Global Change Data Lab, a UK-based nonprofit.
In the early 1990s, more than 40% of Ethiopia’s imports came from Europe, while imports from China were negligible. Today, those positions have almost reversed: China now accounts for about one-third of all goods Ethiopia imports, illustrating the country’s growing reliance on Asian markets.
The shift mirrors changes across Africa and South America, where Europe & North America once dominated import flows. Asia is now the largest source of imports for both regions, driven primarily by China’s rapid economic rise...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02rEyh5XSGHFg2SoTQnwzyjgtBHwpih6hTVteoMnzmGRrXzo5XjNPVV7QtWeAhczdSl
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#Ethiopia embraces big projects but escalates regional tensions by seeking more access to the sea
Ethiopia’s leader loves big projects. With a contentious mega dam completed on the Nile, Prime Minister #Abiy_Ahmed now plans #Africa’s largest airport & a nuclear power plant, the Associated Press reports.
But AP said in its report that the landlocked nation risks escalating regional tensions with its most audacious stated aim of gaining greater access to the sea.
The capital, Addis Abeba, has seen a development boom. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam was inaugurated in July, despite strong opposition from Egypt and Sudan. Ethiopia’s prime minister has called it a “harbinger of tomorrow’s dawn” that will end reliance on foreign aid for Africa’s second most populous nation. The country has been one of the world’s biggest aid recipients.
But multiple challenges lie ahead that could badly damage the economy, which has seen some of the strongest...
https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1999388942672482535?s=20
Ethiopia’s leader loves big projects. With a contentious mega dam completed on the Nile, Prime Minister #Abiy_Ahmed now plans #Africa’s largest airport & a nuclear power plant, the Associated Press reports.
But AP said in its report that the landlocked nation risks escalating regional tensions with its most audacious stated aim of gaining greater access to the sea.
The capital, Addis Abeba, has seen a development boom. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam was inaugurated in July, despite strong opposition from Egypt and Sudan. Ethiopia’s prime minister has called it a “harbinger of tomorrow’s dawn” that will end reliance on foreign aid for Africa’s second most populous nation. The country has been one of the world’s biggest aid recipients.
But multiple challenges lie ahead that could badly damage the economy, which has seen some of the strongest...
https://x.com/addisstandard/status/1999388942672482535?s=20
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News: Antonio Guterres urges #Ethiopia and #Eritrea to recommit to Algiers Agreement on its 25th anniversary amid renewed tensions
#UN Secretary-General #Antonio_Guterres has called on Ethiopia and Eritrea to reaffirm their commitment to the #Algiers Agreement, as the landmark peace accord marks its 25th anniversary.
The statement, delivered on Friday by his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, comes at a time of renewed tensions between the neighbouring countries.
The Algiers Agreement, signed on 12 December 2000, formally ended the bloody border war between Ethiopia and Eritrea and established mechanisms for border demarcation while affirming the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both states.
The Secretary-General described it as a “crucial framework” that has underpinned peaceful relations for a quarter of a century.
Guterres also recalled that 7 years ago the leaders of ...
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#UN Secretary-General #Antonio_Guterres has called on Ethiopia and Eritrea to reaffirm their commitment to the #Algiers Agreement, as the landmark peace accord marks its 25th anniversary.
The statement, delivered on Friday by his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, comes at a time of renewed tensions between the neighbouring countries.
The Algiers Agreement, signed on 12 December 2000, formally ended the bloody border war between Ethiopia and Eritrea and established mechanisms for border demarcation while affirming the sovereignty and territorial integrity of both states.
The Secretary-General described it as a “crucial framework” that has underpinned peaceful relations for a quarter of a century.
Guterres also recalled that 7 years ago the leaders of ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0kYQCEWPjNpi7MjRWprg8i2QAQomsjperDhWgpcnyq9VP6dYh49HMQfgXPTjX9ZA5l
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#Ethiopia: Gambella city officials held discussion on security amid rising regional tensions
#Gambella City officials met with local leaders and Kebele stakeholders on 11 December 2025 to address ongoing security challenges and emphasize the importance of coordinated efforts to maintain peace, the Gambella Regional Government Press Secretariat Office said.
The office noted that recent security disturbances in Gambella City “resulted in casualties” and described the incidents as “sporadic” conflicts that are disrupting public peace and causing harm. Officials stressed the need to hold perpetrators legally accountable and highlighted measures being undertaken to improve the security situation in the city.
Gambella City Mayor Tut Jok called on residents to actively contribute to establishing lasting peace, while Deputy Mayor Otor Ukugu and other officials said the city would continue ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02X2GgE8VkFY86Kk8rkoDxXnnmwu1TeBpzQfQpUuNLpNLDKPRWRVMtw9m66U74p6Q2l
#Gambella City officials met with local leaders and Kebele stakeholders on 11 December 2025 to address ongoing security challenges and emphasize the importance of coordinated efforts to maintain peace, the Gambella Regional Government Press Secretariat Office said.
The office noted that recent security disturbances in Gambella City “resulted in casualties” and described the incidents as “sporadic” conflicts that are disrupting public peace and causing harm. Officials stressed the need to hold perpetrators legally accountable and highlighted measures being undertaken to improve the security situation in the city.
Gambella City Mayor Tut Jok called on residents to actively contribute to establishing lasting peace, while Deputy Mayor Otor Ukugu and other officials said the city would continue ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02X2GgE8VkFY86Kk8rkoDxXnnmwu1TeBpzQfQpUuNLpNLDKPRWRVMtw9m66U74p6Q2l
#Op_ed: Cruel Hand of Externalization: How global migration shift imperils #Tigrayan women returnees
This op-ed written on behalf of GEM Tigray argues that as the war in #Tigray “formally settles,” a quieter crisis is unfolding: Tigrayan women migrants are being deported from Gulf States or pushed onto dangerous routes where “return does not mean safety; it means re-victimization.”
She notes that survivors of the war, many subjected to “gender-based violence,” come home to minimal support. Batseba links this to a global shift toward migration externalization, noting this policy “redistributes harm, not reduces it.”
Click the link below to read the full article and explore how the “externalization of migration governance,” a model in which destination states outsource border control and returns, harms vulnerable populations, including Tigrayan women returnees.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54026
This op-ed written on behalf of GEM Tigray argues that as the war in #Tigray “formally settles,” a quieter crisis is unfolding: Tigrayan women migrants are being deported from Gulf States or pushed onto dangerous routes where “return does not mean safety; it means re-victimization.”
She notes that survivors of the war, many subjected to “gender-based violence,” come home to minimal support. Batseba links this to a global shift toward migration externalization, noting this policy “redistributes harm, not reduces it.”
Click the link below to read the full article and explore how the “externalization of migration governance,” a model in which destination states outsource border control and returns, harms vulnerable populations, including Tigrayan women returnees.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54026
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#Breaking: #Eritrea withdraws from #IGAD, again; cites ‘failure to meet aspirations of the region’
Eritrea has officially informed the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) of its decision to withdraw from the regional bloc, according to a statement released by the country’s Ministry of Information.
The Horn of Africa's country latest departure from the regional bloc comes after diplomatic efforts within IGAD commenced to bring Asmara back into the fold on 8 July 2018. Then-IGAD Executive Secretary Amb. (Eng.) Mahboub Maalim praised Ethiopia and Eritrea’s rapprochement following the commitment to implement the Algiers Agreement.
Eritrea’s fraught relationship with IGAD has seen earlier attempts at rapprochement. In July 2011, Asmara moved to reactivate its membership in the bloc, four years after walking out in protest over what it said was IGAD’s position on “Ethiopia’s military intervention in Somalia”.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54029
Eritrea has officially informed the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) of its decision to withdraw from the regional bloc, according to a statement released by the country’s Ministry of Information.
The Horn of Africa's country latest departure from the regional bloc comes after diplomatic efforts within IGAD commenced to bring Asmara back into the fold on 8 July 2018. Then-IGAD Executive Secretary Amb. (Eng.) Mahboub Maalim praised Ethiopia and Eritrea’s rapprochement following the commitment to implement the Algiers Agreement.
Eritrea’s fraught relationship with IGAD has seen earlier attempts at rapprochement. In July 2011, Asmara moved to reactivate its membership in the bloc, four years after walking out in protest over what it said was IGAD’s position on “Ethiopia’s military intervention in Somalia”.
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54029
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#Sudan’s fallout hits #Yemen
In a development that could redraw the map of Yemen’s conflict, the Southern Transitional Council (#STC) announced that it had taken control of wide areas in the country’s south, including the city of #Aden.
For nearly a decade, the coastal city has served as the seat of Yemen’s internationally recognized government, backed by #Saudi_Arabia.
The STC, which seeks an independent #South_Yemen, said several senior officials had left Aden, including the prime minister and the head of the eight-member body that replaced the presidency.
The #UAE backs the STC in the civil war, now nearing its tenth year. The council has previously clashed with other factions within the #Saudi-backed government.
Since 2022, the STC has been part of an administration governing southern areas outside the reach of the Houthis, who have controlled Sanaa since 2014.
About a week ago,.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid033r9e81GAb3mTRDaFxii1XgRNjNXCbfJhqNx6JERAudvdc97n9Vf1nLWd2Qr3q1v1l
In a development that could redraw the map of Yemen’s conflict, the Southern Transitional Council (#STC) announced that it had taken control of wide areas in the country’s south, including the city of #Aden.
For nearly a decade, the coastal city has served as the seat of Yemen’s internationally recognized government, backed by #Saudi_Arabia.
The STC, which seeks an independent #South_Yemen, said several senior officials had left Aden, including the prime minister and the head of the eight-member body that replaced the presidency.
The #UAE backs the STC in the civil war, now nearing its tenth year. The council has previously clashed with other factions within the #Saudi-backed government.
Since 2022, the STC has been part of an administration governing southern areas outside the reach of the Houthis, who have controlled Sanaa since 2014.
About a week ago,.
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid033r9e81GAb3mTRDaFxii1XgRNjNXCbfJhqNx6JERAudvdc97n9Vf1nLWd2Qr3q1v1l
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News: #Tigray opposition parties reject ongoing dialogue conference, call for inclusive transitional government
Six opposition parties in Tigray have rejected the ongoing National Dialogue Conference, describing the process as illegitimate and excluding key political actors. In a joint statement issued on Friday, the parties said the forum lacks credibility and fails to provide the foundations needed for meaningful negotiations.
The statement was signed by the Tigray Independence Party (#TIP), #Salsay_Woyane Tigray, the National Congress for Greater Tigray (#Baitona), Tigrai Generation Party, #Arena Tigray, and Tinsa’e Sebia Enderta Party.
The parties said the conference—established under Regulation No. 29/2 by what they described as a body “claiming to be the Interim Administration of Tigray”—is dominated by a single armed group and was launched without clarifying its mandate, purpose, powers, membership, or inclusivity.
They argued that the forum does ...
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54037
Six opposition parties in Tigray have rejected the ongoing National Dialogue Conference, describing the process as illegitimate and excluding key political actors. In a joint statement issued on Friday, the parties said the forum lacks credibility and fails to provide the foundations needed for meaningful negotiations.
The statement was signed by the Tigray Independence Party (#TIP), #Salsay_Woyane Tigray, the National Congress for Greater Tigray (#Baitona), Tigrai Generation Party, #Arena Tigray, and Tinsa’e Sebia Enderta Party.
The parties said the conference—established under Regulation No. 29/2 by what they described as a body “claiming to be the Interim Administration of Tigray”—is dominated by a single armed group and was launched without clarifying its mandate, purpose, powers, membership, or inclusivity.
They argued that the forum does ...
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54037
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#AS_Editorial: #Ethiopia’s Crises: Confronting manufactured peace, broken trust, and the unraveling of continental mediation
Ethiopia’s ruling party’s latest attempt at peace-making has once again revealed a familiar and failing pattern: fragmented processes, opaque negotiations, and the quiet complicity of continental bodies entrusted with preventing conflicts.
On 4 December 2025, state media reported that the #Amhara Regional Government and the #Amhara Fano People’s Organization (#AFPO) had signed a “peace agreement” in Addis Abeba.
Representatives from the African Union (#AU) and Intragovernmental Authority on Development (#IGAD) were introduced as mediators, and both institutions publicly praised the agreement. The federal government celebrated it as a response to public demands for peace.
AFPO’s leadership, however, swiftly rejected the deal as “illegitimate” and “unauthorized,” challenging not only the agreement’s validity but the credibility of....
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54039
Ethiopia’s ruling party’s latest attempt at peace-making has once again revealed a familiar and failing pattern: fragmented processes, opaque negotiations, and the quiet complicity of continental bodies entrusted with preventing conflicts.
On 4 December 2025, state media reported that the #Amhara Regional Government and the #Amhara Fano People’s Organization (#AFPO) had signed a “peace agreement” in Addis Abeba.
Representatives from the African Union (#AU) and Intragovernmental Authority on Development (#IGAD) were introduced as mediators, and both institutions publicly praised the agreement. The federal government celebrated it as a response to public demands for peace.
AFPO’s leadership, however, swiftly rejected the deal as “illegitimate” and “unauthorized,” challenging not only the agreement’s validity but the credibility of....
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54039
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#US accuses #Rwanda of violating the peace deal as M23 rebels seize a key eastern Congo city
The remarks by U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz came as more than 400 civilians have been killed since the Rwanda-backed #M23 rebels escalated their offensive in eastern #Congo’s South Kivu province, according to regional officials who also say that Rwandan special forces were in the strategic city of Uvira.
Waltz told the U.N. Security Council that the U.S. is “profoundly concerned and incredibly disappointed with the renewed outbreak of violence” by M23.
“Rwanda is leading the region towards increased instability and war,” Waltz warned. “We will use the tools at our disposal to hold to account spoilers to peace.”
He called on Rwanda to respect Congo’s right to defend its territory and invite friendly forces from neighboring Burundi to fight alongside Congolese forces. He also said the U.S. is ...
https://apnews.com/article/congo-rwanda-m23-trump-fighting-minerals-2de3a2c8e36ace7b2dc1114161168830
The remarks by U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz came as more than 400 civilians have been killed since the Rwanda-backed #M23 rebels escalated their offensive in eastern #Congo’s South Kivu province, according to regional officials who also say that Rwandan special forces were in the strategic city of Uvira.
Waltz told the U.N. Security Council that the U.S. is “profoundly concerned and incredibly disappointed with the renewed outbreak of violence” by M23.
“Rwanda is leading the region towards increased instability and war,” Waltz warned. “We will use the tools at our disposal to hold to account spoilers to peace.”
He called on Rwanda to respect Congo’s right to defend its territory and invite friendly forces from neighboring Burundi to fight alongside Congolese forces. He also said the U.S. is ...
https://apnews.com/article/congo-rwanda-m23-trump-fighting-minerals-2de3a2c8e36ace7b2dc1114161168830
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News: U.S. ends Temporary Protected Status for #Ethiopian nationals, citing improved conditions
The #United_States Department of Homeland Security (#DHS) has announced the termination of Ethiopia’s Temporary Protected Status (#TPS), ending protections that have allowed eligible Ethiopian nationals to live and work legally in the U.S. since the designation was first granted in 2022.
In a statement issued this week, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said the decision follows a “careful assessment of country conditions,” concluding that circumstances in Ethiopia “no longer meet the statutory requirements” for extending TPS.
A spokesperson for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (#USCIS) emphasized that the program is intended to be temporary.
“Temporary Protected Status designations are time-limited and were never meant to be a ticket to permanent residency,” the spokesperson said. “Conditions in Ethiopia no longer pose a serious threat to the personal safety of ...
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54043
The #United_States Department of Homeland Security (#DHS) has announced the termination of Ethiopia’s Temporary Protected Status (#TPS), ending protections that have allowed eligible Ethiopian nationals to live and work legally in the U.S. since the designation was first granted in 2022.
In a statement issued this week, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said the decision follows a “careful assessment of country conditions,” concluding that circumstances in Ethiopia “no longer meet the statutory requirements” for extending TPS.
A spokesperson for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (#USCIS) emphasized that the program is intended to be temporary.
“Temporary Protected Status designations are time-limited and were never meant to be a ticket to permanent residency,” the spokesperson said. “Conditions in Ethiopia no longer pose a serious threat to the personal safety of ...
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54043
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News: Call for respect of #Ethiopia, #Eritrea sovereignty as #EU, other key states mark Algiers agreement anniversary
EU and a group of partner countries have renewed calls for respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity in Ethiopia–Eritrea relations, as renewed tensions overshadow the 25th anniversary of the #Algiers Agreement, the accord that formally ended the 1998–2000 war between the two neighbors.
In a statement marking the anniversary, the European Union reaffirmed its full support for the agreement and for the border as determined by the Eritrea–Ethiopia Boundary Commission, urging both countries to respect each other’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
It further called on the two sides to resolve any tensions or disputes through peaceful & diplomatic means, stressing that adherence to these principles remains essential for the stability of the wider region.
In a joint statement marking the anniversary, the governments ...
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54049
EU and a group of partner countries have renewed calls for respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity in Ethiopia–Eritrea relations, as renewed tensions overshadow the 25th anniversary of the #Algiers Agreement, the accord that formally ended the 1998–2000 war between the two neighbors.
In a statement marking the anniversary, the European Union reaffirmed its full support for the agreement and for the border as determined by the Eritrea–Ethiopia Boundary Commission, urging both countries to respect each other’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
It further called on the two sides to resolve any tensions or disputes through peaceful & diplomatic means, stressing that adherence to these principles remains essential for the stability of the wider region.
In a joint statement marking the anniversary, the governments ...
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54049
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#Ethiopia: Kidnapped prosecutor released in #West_Shewa, officials say
Authorities in West Shewa Zone have confirmed the release of a prosecutor who was abducted earlier this month while traveling to work.
The West Shewa Zone Prosecutor’s Office said Shibiru Guta Megersa, prosecutor with a visual impairment who is serving in Ejersa Lafo woreda, was released on the night of 11 December, 2025, after being held for several days by what officials described as “armed groups operating in forested areas.”
According to the office, Shibiru dropped off around 8:00 p.m. on an asphalt road in Adami Gotu kebele of Waliso district, in Southwest Shewa Zone. He was found early the following morning, on 12 December.
The office added that the prosecutor is currently unwell and receiving medical treatment at a nearby health facility.
Shibiru was reportedly abducted on 08 December, 2025, while returning to his duty station by vehicle after visiting his family.
No group has claimed responsibility for the abduction.
Authorities in West Shewa Zone have confirmed the release of a prosecutor who was abducted earlier this month while traveling to work.
The West Shewa Zone Prosecutor’s Office said Shibiru Guta Megersa, prosecutor with a visual impairment who is serving in Ejersa Lafo woreda, was released on the night of 11 December, 2025, after being held for several days by what officials described as “armed groups operating in forested areas.”
According to the office, Shibiru dropped off around 8:00 p.m. on an asphalt road in Adami Gotu kebele of Waliso district, in Southwest Shewa Zone. He was found early the following morning, on 12 December.
The office added that the prosecutor is currently unwell and receiving medical treatment at a nearby health facility.
Shibiru was reportedly abducted on 08 December, 2025, while returning to his duty station by vehicle after visiting his family.
No group has claimed responsibility for the abduction.
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News: #IGAD expresses regret over #Eritrea’s withdrawal, calls for renewed engagement
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) said it has taken note of Eritrea’s decision to withdraw from the regional bloc, expressing regret over the move and urging Asmara to reconsider its position, a day after Eritrean authorities announced their formal exit citing the organization’s alleged failure to meet the aspirations of the region.
In a statement issued following Eritrea’s notification through a formal Note Verbale, IGAD recalled that Eritrea had self-suspended its participation in the organization for nearly two decades before formally rejoining in June 2023, after the 14th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government.
At the time, IGAD said, Eritrea was unanimously welcomed back by all member states, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusivity, regional solidarity, and renewed cooperation.
The statement comes after Eritrea announced yesterday that it ....
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54052
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) said it has taken note of Eritrea’s decision to withdraw from the regional bloc, expressing regret over the move and urging Asmara to reconsider its position, a day after Eritrean authorities announced their formal exit citing the organization’s alleged failure to meet the aspirations of the region.
In a statement issued following Eritrea’s notification through a formal Note Verbale, IGAD recalled that Eritrea had self-suspended its participation in the organization for nearly two decades before formally rejoining in June 2023, after the 14th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government.
At the time, IGAD said, Eritrea was unanimously welcomed back by all member states, reflecting a shared commitment to inclusivity, regional solidarity, and renewed cooperation.
The statement comes after Eritrea announced yesterday that it ....
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54052
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