NAIROBI, Kenya (Kaab TV) – Amnesty International has issued a call for urgent international action to end mass arbitrary detentions in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, marking four months since the Ethiopian government launched a campaign of widespread arrests in September 2024.
On September 28, 2024, Ethiopia’s federal forces and Amhara regional security forces reportedly detained thousands of individuals across the region, transporting them to four mass detention centers.
Among those targeted were members of the judiciary, including judges, prosecutors, and academics.
Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah, criticized the lack of global response.
“The international silence over the mass arbitrary detention of thousands in the Amhara region is beyond shameful. Ethiopia’s development partners, along with African and global human rights bodies, must speak out and demand the immediate release of those unjustly detained,” Chagutah said.
“The world cannot continue turning a blind eye to Ethiopia’s human rights crisis.”
Despite limited releases in recent months—four judiciary workers were freed in October 2024, and hundreds, including three judges, women, elderly individuals, and those with chronic health conditions, were released in January 2025—thousands remain in detention without charge or trial.
The mass arrests coincide with ongoing clashes between Ethiopia’s military and Amhara armed groups.
Amnesty International described the detentions as a “travesty of justice,” highlighting the Ethiopian government’s disregard for the rule of law.
“Keeping thousands of people locked up for months without charge or trial is a blatant violation of human rights,” Chagutah added. “The Ethiopian authorities must immediately release all arbitrarily detained individuals or formally charge them with internationally recognized crimes.”
The rights group also expressed concern over the government’s broader crackdown on civic space, noting the suspension of four prominent human rights organizations, including one with a 32-year history.
Amnesty International reiterated the need for coordinated international pressure to address Ethiopia’s escalating human rights crisis.