Tesfalem Waldyes, founder and editor-in-chief of Ethiopia Insider, was released from police custody on Friday after being held for several days, despite three separate court decisions granting him bail. His detention — prolonged in defiance of judicial orders — has raised concerns among legal observers and press freedom advocates about the treatment of journalists and the respect for due process in Ethiopia.
Tesfalem was arrested on Sunday, 8 June, by security forces who accused him of “disseminating false information” related to unrest during a football match between Wolaita Dicha and Sidama Buna. Authorities alleged that he made comments suggesting the government was reserving the stadium for political events involving Tigrayan groups — a claim he denies. His lawyer, Betemariam Hailu, stated that Tesfalem was not present at the scene and that the accusation lacked sufficient basis to justify extended detention.
The Addis Abeba City First Instance Court granted him bail at 15,000 birr, a ruling upheld by the Appeals Court and reaffirmed by the Cassation Court. The final ruling noted that the police’s legal reasoning did not merit an appeal and confirmed that lower courts had acted lawfully.
Despite these clear decisions, Tesfalem remained in custody for several additional days — a delay that has prompted questions about the enforcement of court rulings and the autonomy of the judiciary. Legal experts and rights groups have expressed concern about the growing trend of law enforcement bodies hesitating or refusing to comply with court orders, especially in cases involving the media.
In a statement issued after his release, Haq Media and Communication, publisher of Ethiopia Insider, thanked those who supported Tesfalem during his detention. “We appreciate the solidarity shown by colleagues, friends, and rights organizations, both locally and internationally,” the statement read.
Human Rights Watch had issued a statement a day before Tesfalem’s release, describing his detention as part of a broader pattern of pressure on the media. It noted that journalists in Ethiopia have often been investigated under the 2020 Hate Speech and Disinformation Proclamation — a law critics say lacks clarity and is prone to misuse.
While Tesfalem is now free, his case reflects lingering tensions between the country’s commitment to rule of law and the realities of enforcement on the ground. Observers say ensuring respect for judicial decisions is essential to maintaining public confidence in Ethiopia’s legal system and protecting journalists who operate in increasingly uncertain conditions.
Addis Standard
