The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has expressed grave concern over the Ethiopian authorities’ recent actions against the independent media outlet, Addis Standard. On April 17, Ethiopian police raided the offices of Addis Standard and the home of one of its senior staff members, detaining three managers for several hours and confiscating multiple electronic devices, including laptops, phones, and data storage equipment.
The police justified the raids by alleging that the outlet was preparing to produce a documentary that could incite violence. However, Tsedale Lemma, founder of Addis Standard, dismissed these allegations as false, stating, “Addis Standard does not have the capacity to produce documentaries.”
Following a visit to the Federal Police Crime Investigation Unit on April 22, Editor-in-Chief Yonas Kedir was informed that the authorities intended to access the confiscated devices and retain backup data before returning them. (Committee to Protect Journalists)
CPJ has warned that the misuse of sensitive data obtained from these devices could lead to further harassment and intimidation of journalists, undermining press freedom in Ethiopia. The organization has called on Ethiopian authorities to immediately return the confiscated equipment and cease all actions that threaten the independence of the media. (Committee to Protect Journalists)
This incident is part of a broader pattern of government efforts to suppress independent journalism in Ethiopia. In July 2021, the Ethiopian Media Authority withdrew Addis Standard’s license without providing a clear explanation, leading the outlet to cease operations.
CPJ continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the international community to support efforts to protect press freedom in Ethiopia.
