Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn announced on 3 January 2018 that the government would release political prisoners and close the Maekelawi detention centre in Addis Ababa.

The surprise declaration was presented as an effort to widen democratic space after years of unrest and a security response that had drawn sustained criticism. Maekelawi had become notorious among former detainees and human-rights organisations for allegations of torture and abusive interrogation.

The announcement was politically significant because Ethiopian officials had often rejected the description of detained opposition figures as political prisoners. Rights advocates welcomed the change in language and intent while calling for transparent implementation, accountability for abuse and reform of laws used against peaceful dissent.

Releases followed during 2018, but Ethiopia’s political opening remained uneven. A new state of emergency was declared in February after Hailemariam resigned, renewing concern that restrictions on assembly and expression could undermine the promised reforms. The January pledge nevertheless marked an early turning point in a year that would bring new national leadership and a broader programme of political change.

Sources