Sudanese journalist detained in Ethiopia

The Sudanese Journalists’ Syndicate has called for the immediate release of council member Haitham Osman and two companions following their detention by Ethiopian authorities in Addis Ababa. The group was reportedly arrested on Friday, September 25, near their residence, and has since been taken to an undisclosed location.

The syndicate stated that authorities have not provided information regarding the reasons for the detention or the current whereabouts of the individuals. They have urged the Sudanese embassy in Addis Ababa to intervene and provide legal assistance, while also appealing to international human rights and press freedom organizations to press for their release.

Osman, who fled the ongoing conflict in Sudan, is being held without disclosed charges. The syndicate noted that the detention potentially violates Ethiopia’s 1995 constitution and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which protect freedom of expression and the press. There has been no immediate response from Ethiopian authorities.