Ethiopian authorities have released journalist Salsawit Baynesagn Yimer on bail in Addis Ababa, her family confirmed on Saturday
Borkena – Toronto, Ethiopian authorities on Saturday released journalist Salsawit Baynesagn Yimer.
Her family in Addis Ababa reportedly confirmed that she was released from the Third Police Division in the Ethiopian capital.
Her sister, Haymanot Bayneshan, said she was released on bail.
She was taken from her residence by uniformed police about two weeks ago. She did not appear in court prior to her release.
Police have not disclosed the reason for her arrest. However, sources on social media allege that she was detained over content she published online regarding the reported massacre of Orthodox Christians in the Arsi Zone of the Oromia region of Ethiopia.
On Friday, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) published a report on her arrest and called for her release.
Salsawit previously worked for state-owned media outlets Walta Information and Fana Broadcasting Corporate.
Since leaving those organizations, she has been working independently.
She has become a prominent social media content creator, engaging audiences on topics ranging from human rights violations to history, culture, and justice.
The ruling Prosperity Party has faced criticism over its record on freedom of expression in recent years. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government has arrested dozens of journalists and activists, particularly following the launch of military operations against Fano forces in the Amhara region, initially described as lasting only “a few weeks.”
Many of those detained are ethnic Amhara.
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Leave this precious daughter of ours alone. If you disagree with what she said or wrote, jail is never the response. Have a sit down with her and hold a civil discussion. Our women are naturally gifted communicators unless you are hapless misogynists. Leave her alone.