By Staff Writer
(Nairobi, Kenya) — The Federal High Court Lideta Division, First Instance Bench, has granted an additional 10-day investigation window for senior leaders of the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP) and a defense attorney who remain in custody on suspicion of involvement in terrorism.
The suspects—identified as EPRP Public Relations Head Yisaq Wolday, party member Abebe Akalu, and defense attorney Abera Negus—appeared before the bench during an afternoon session in Addis Ababa.
In its submission to the court, the police special investigation unit outlined progress made during an earlier 12-day remand period granted after judges reviewed audio recordings of social media broadcasts. Investigators reported that they have received technical data from the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), submitted physical evidence for forensic evaluation, recorded formal depositions from one witness, and presented technical evidence alleging that the suspects traveled to the Arba Minch area in the Gamo Zone to conduct unlawful organizational activities.
State investigators told the bench that technical records indicate the suspects urged local youth to organize, train, and arm themselves against state forces under the pretext of self-defense. Citing pending technical documentation from NISS, the Ethiopian Media Authority, and various banking institutions, police petitioned for a 14-day extension to finalize the case file.
Legal counsel representing the three suspects strongly opposed the extension request, arguing that the arrests lacked probable cause and were politically motivated. Defense attorneys noted that Yisaq Wolday and Abebe Akalu were targeted solely due to their opposition party affiliation, while Lawyer Abera Negus was detained because of his legal representation of politician Taye Dendea.
Addressing the state’s progress report, the defense contended that taking a single witness statement and sending administrative letters over 12 days demonstrated a lack of substantive investigative momentum. Counsel also stressed that the allegations concerning mobilization in Arba Minch represented a new claim not raised in previous hearings.
Arguing that the suspects hold permanent residences in Addis Ababa, support families, and pose no risk of tampering with institutional evidence held by state agencies, the defense requested conditional release on bail.
Following an initial adjournment to review submissions from both sides, the presiding judge ruled that investigative necessity justified continued detention. However, the bench reduced the state’s 14-day request, granting a 10-day remand extension.
The court adjourned the case and scheduled the next hearing for August 27, 2026, during which police are required to present updated forensic findings and institutional evidence.
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