Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis Standard2
Published on 2024-02-16 08:32:14
An inquiry by the State of Emergency Implementation Inquiry Board, chaired by Executive Director Girma Gezimu, is ongoing to investigate extrajudicial killings of civilians by government security forces in Merawi, a small town in the East Gojam Zone of Ethiopia’s Amhara region.
Deputy Chairperson Nejat Girma told the BBC that the Board decided to launch an independent investigation after a preliminary report released by the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) confirmed that at least 45 civilians were recently killed in extrajudicial executions by security forces. The Board intends to travel to Merawi to gather firsthand accounts and evidence.
The government confirmed a clash between the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) and the non-state militia group Fano, stating that the defense forces did not target any civilians. The Minister of State for Communication Services, Legesse Tulu, claimed that the military acted in self-defense after insurgents attacked the army camp to steal equipment and supplies.
Nejat Girma emphasized that the Board is not swayed by media reports but waits for suggestions and official reports. Despite media coverage over the past two weeks, he said that the Board will not be influenced by it as it waits for suggestions and official reports. The inquiry board’s ability to conduct investigations would be determined by the security situation on the ground.
The alleged incident has drawn sharp criticism both locally and from international human rights groups. The European Union expressed serious concern and called for an independent investigation, while the US government demanded unfettered access for human rights monitors and accountability for perpetrators.
The Deputy Chairperson mentioned that the inquiry board’s mandate has been extended. However, their ability to conduct investigations would be determined by the security situation on the ground. The Board intends to travel to Merawi to gather firsthand accounts and evidence, but the exact timing has not been provided.
It is significant to note that the EHRC operates independently in matters that pertain to upholding human and democratic rights. The Commission is mandated to investigate allegations of human rights abuses and monitor the human rights situation in the country. This independent investigation will provide transparency and uphold democratic principles.
In conclusion, the ongoing investigation by the State of Emergency Implementation Inquiry Board seeks to uncover the truth about the extrajudicial killings in Merawi to hold perpetrators accountable and provide justice for the affected civilians. The government has also expressed its commitment to conducting a thorough investigation and ensuring that those responsible for the extrajudicial killings are brought to justice.
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