Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis Standard
Published on 2024-03-06 10:50:03
The Addis Abeba City First Instance Court, Bole Division made a significant decision to release Bate Urgessa, a political officer of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLF), on bail. This ruling came after Bate Urgessa and French journalist Antoine Galindo were arrested by security forces while conducting an interview at the Skylight hotel in Addis Abeba on February 22, 2024. Both individuals faced accusations of conspiring with armed groups, the OLA-Shene and the Fano militia, to incite unrest in the capital.
While Galindo was released last week, Bate Urgessa was granted an additional 5 days of remand for the police to conduct further investigations. However, during a recent court session, Bate was granted bail in the amount of 100,000 birr with an additional 10 days for police inquiry. This decision was made by the court despite Bate’s history of being in and out of detentions on multiple occasions.
Bate Urgessa’s outspoken political nature has led to numerous encounters with law enforcement in the past. He was one of the dozen OLF leaders who faced detention, including individuals like Mikael Boren, Kenessa Ayana, Dawit Abdeta, Lemi Begna, and Geda Gabisa. Despite being released by a federal court, these leaders were still held in Oromia police custody for an extended period.
The release of Bate Urgessa on bail signifies a step towards justice and civil liberties in Ethiopia. It highlights the importance of due process and the legal system in ensuring that individuals are treated fairly and have the opportunity to defend themselves against any accusations. The decision to grant bail to Bate Urgessa also reflects the court’s acknowledgment of his rights as a citizen and the need for a thorough investigation before making any definitive judgments.
As Bate Urgessa continues to navigate the legal system, it is essential to remember the principles of justice and fairness that underpin the rule of law. The court’s decision to release him on bail is a positive development that underscores the importance of upholding human rights and ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their political affiliations or beliefs.
In conclusion, the release of Bate Urgessa on bail is a significant moment in the ongoing legal proceedings involving him and other OLF leaders. It serves as a reminder of the importance of due process, fair treatment, and the protection of individual rights in any judicial system. As the case continues to unfold, it will be crucial to uphold these principles and ensure that justice is served for all parties involved.
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