Ethiopia’s state of emergency, declared last week, is growing harsher. A weekend announcement made it a crime to report the situation on social media. Anti-government protests have continued since November. Watching Oromia Media Network, Ethiopian Satellite Television and Radio, or diaspora channels that support protesters is also illegal.
Defense Minister Siraj Fegessa said on state TV that people who watch those outlets or share on social media would face military measures. Violating emergency rules can bring three to five years in prison.
Oromos and Amharas, the country’s largest ethnic groups, object to how rights are controlled by the ruling EPRDF, dominated by the minority Tigray elite. After a week of violent protests that damaged businesses and government buildings, Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn declared a six-month emergency on 9 October. At least 500 people died in protests that flared after plans to expand Addis Ababa into Oromo lands; the prime minister confirmed a toll authorities once denied.
Even the crossed-wrists protest gesture is banned. Authorities may search citizens without a warrant. Talking to foreigners about unrest or contacting groups labeled terrorists is illegal. Listening to Voice of America or German radio is barred. Diplomats need permission to travel more than 40 km from the capital. After 6 p.m., approaching major infrastructure, farms, state offices, and factories is restricted.
The government also promised election reforms and more ethnic representation in a parliament EPRDF fully controls. Opposition leader Merera Gudina called it too little, too late: the regime, he said, promises what the world wants to hear and rarely delivers.
