The Ethiopian Political Prisoners’ Legal Defense Fund (Toronto)

Press Release
The Ethiopian Political Prisoners’ Legal Defense Fund (Toronto)

Toronto-based Ethiopian-Canadian lawyer Teklemichael Abebe Sahlemariam visited  Ethiopia from February 13-24, 2025. He visited journalist Meskerem Abera in Kality  Prison and observed the trial of 51 defendants in the Dr. Wondwossen Assefa case at the  Lideta Federal High Court. He commended the defense lawyers’ efforts under difficult  conditions and initiated support fund for the lawyers: 

“Article 20(5) of the Ethiopian Constitution guarantees defendants the  right to legal representation by lawyers of their choice. If they cannot  afford one, the state is obligated to provide a lawyer. Competent legal  representation is a fundamental prerequisite for ensuring justice and  fairness. However, in Ethiopia, there is a lack of institutional  

independence, trust, established practices, and a supportive culture for  political prisoners to access state-appointed legal counsel. 

“Therefore, we commend the lawyers representing Meskerem Abera  and others for their dedication and the services they provide, often with  extremely limited resources and effectively pro bono. To support their  diligent efforts, express our appreciation, alleviate their burden, and  enable them to effectively scrutinize the justice system; while also  aiming to contribute to the development of a strong bar association and  a robust advocacy culture, we have concluded our 15-day fundraising  campaign for legal defense fund for Ethiopian political prisoners.  Through this campaign, we raised 350,000 Birr from the law offices of  Mr. Teklemichael Abebe and Mr. Daniel Tilahun, and an additional  650,000 Birr from 40 other donors, totaling 1 million Birr. We extend  our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to this initiative and  express our confidence that you will continue to support our future  endeavors.” 

The Ethiopian Political Prisoners’ Legal Defense Fund (Toronto)

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