By: Getahun Tsegaye
Staff Reporter
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The Federal High Court, Lideta Branch, First Anti-Terrorism Criminal Bench, has sentenced an individual, Wondimagegn Beregena, to seven years in prison for disseminating what the court described as “ anti-government propaganda” in support “Amhara Fano”- an armed rebels the government calls “extremists.”
According to Fana Broadcasting Corporate (FBC), the court ruled that Wondimagegn is guilty of violating Articles 32 (a), (b), and (c) of the 1996 Ethiopian Penal Code. The prosecution alleged that Wondimagegn served as a key figure in spreading incitement to armed conflict, distributing content supporting the group on social media platforms including TikTok and WhatsApp.
Court documents state that Wondimagegn communicated directly with Zemedkun Bekele, a well-known Ethiopian activist and media figure residing in Germany, who has been outspoken about political and human rights issues in Ethiopia. Zemedkun is known for his online activism and criticism of the government, particularly concerning the rights of ethnic Amharas. The prosecution alleged that Wondimagegn sent Zemedkun video recordings stating: “I am also part of that body; I support Fano; everyone should do their part,” and “We must weaken the system through various options.”
In one particular message dated March 1, 2024, Wondimagegn allegedly claimed that the government was demolishing homes in Arba Minch—an accusation the prosecution said was false and intended to incite “unrest.” He was also accused of calling for armed struggle as the only means to overthrow the government.
The case comes amid increased scrutiny of Ethiopia’s freedom of expression laws. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently made claims, during a parliamentary session in Addis Ababa, that “No one has been arrested for expressing their opinion or exercising freedom of expression in recent times.” His administration says only those inciting violence or promoting armed conflict are prosecuted.
Ethiopia’s constitution, under Article 29, guarantees freedom of expression, including the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds. However, rights groups such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have raised concerns in recent years about the government’s use of anti-terrorism laws to limit dissent and restrict press freedom.
Meanwhile, the sentencing coincides with ongoing efforts by the National Dialogue Commission, led by Professor Mesfin Araya, to initiate inclusive peace talks aimed at “resolving Ethiopia’s deep-rooted political and ethnic divisions.”During a recent public meeting held in Bahir Dar, Professor Mesfin emphasized the Commission’s commitment to “listen to all sides” and engage with stakeholders to forge a peaceful and democratic future for Ethiopia.
“The goal of the dialogue is to ensure that grievances are addressed through peaceful means rather than violence,” Professor Mesfin stated during the session, which drew representatives from civil society, political parties, and community leaders.
Observers note that the juxtaposition of the government’s prosecution of individuals for incitement with its simultaneous efforts at national dialogue reflects the tension between maintaining state security and promoting open political discourse.
Edited by Dimetros Birku
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