(EFJA/IFEX) – Lubaba Sa-id, editor-in-chief of “Tarik” newspaper, was imprisoned because she was unable to pay bail of 1,000 Birr (approx. US$120). The accused published two articles on pages one and six of the “Tarik” newspaper, (1st year No.52) issued on Nehassie 4/1988. They were titled: “The OPDO cadre official who has replaced Samora Yenous […]
(EFJA/IFEX) – Lubaba Sa-id, editor-in-chief of “Tarik” newspaper, was imprisoned because she was unable to pay bail of 1,000 Birr (approx. US$120). The accused published two articles on pages one and six of the “Tarik” newspaper, (1st year No.52) issued on Nehassie 4/1988. They were titled: “The OPDO cadre official who has replaced Samora Yenous in Eastern Oromia has defected”, and “The President’s Personal security guards are said to have defected”.
The prosecutor alleged that, “by publishing such articles the accused disseminated fabricated news at the national level that could have negative psychological effects on members of the Defence Army and cause disturbances in the minds of the people.” Lubaba’s case proceedings have been heard at the First Criminal Bench of the Federal High Court since 1989. On 11 July 2001, the court issued an order for Lubaba to pay bail amounting to 1,000 Birr. The case has been adjourned until September. The journalist, unable to pay bail, is being kept in Addis Ababa prison. Lubaba is married with children.
Second call for support of journalist
Tamrat Zuma, editor-in-chief of “Atkurot” newspaper, remains in Addis Ababa prison since May because he has been unable to pay bail of 11,000 Birr (approx. US$1,300) (see IFEX alerts of 5 July and 14 June 2001).
Four different charges were filed against Zuma for allegedly violating the press law. In its efforts to obtain the release of the journalist, EFJA has called on all concerned to extend their support. However, there has been no favourable response to the call so far. EFJA once again calls on all friends of the free press and international institutions to extend their support to obtain Zuma’s release.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
– expressing concern over the journalists’ imprisonment
– calling on them to release the journalists
Appeals To
H.E Ato Meles Zenawi
Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Fax: +251 1 552 020
c/o National Parliament
E-mail: national.parliament@telecom.net.et
H.E Ato Worede wold Wolde
Minister of Justice
Fax: +251 1 550 722
c/o National Parliament
E-mail: national.parliament@telecom.net.et
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
