(EFJA/IFEX) – The following is an 18 January 2004 EFJA press release: EFJA condemns Ethiopian Ministry of Justice’s so-called appointment of “new Executive Committee” EFJA calls on international press institutions to strongly condemn this action Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Jan. 18 — On Sunday, 18 January 2004, the Ethiopian Ministry of Justice appointed a so-called “new […]
(EFJA/IFEX) – The following is an 18 January 2004 EFJA press release:
EFJA condemns Ethiopian Ministry of Justice’s so-called appointment of “new Executive Committee”
EFJA calls on international press institutions to strongly condemn this action
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Jan. 18 — On Sunday, 18 January 2004, the Ethiopian Ministry of Justice appointed a so-called “new Executive Committee” for EFJA. The ministry’s action is undemocratic and has no legal basis. We therefore urge international press institutions of which EFJA is a member, press organisations, human rights activists, professional associations, civic associations and concerned individuals to strongly condemn this action which contravenes EFJA members’ legitimate rights.
In addition, we call on the Ethiopian people, press institutions and professional associations throughout the world to closely follow the situation and strongly condemn activities that are being carried out under a pretence of acting on behalf of the Executive Committee elected by EFJA, which was bestowed with responsibility for the organisation.
EFJA condemns all actions that result in violations of freedom of expression, citizens’ basic rights and the principles stipulated in international conventions. The organisation will continue to fight against these violations. We are convinced that the Ethiopian people, pro-democracy forces and the international community will support and share our views and join our struggle.
Kifle Mulat
President, EFJA
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
18 January 2004
