Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Acclaimed Ethiopian author, journalist, and scriptwriter Azeb Worku has reportedly been arrested in the capital, Addis Ababa, after publicly criticizing the city’s recent home demolition projects. The arrest, which occurred on Thursday, was first reported by Anchor Media, citing information from Worku’s family. She is believed to be held at the city’s third police station, although authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding her detention.
Azeb Worku, a highly respected figure in Ethiopian literature and media, posted a message on her Facebook page on September 14, denouncing the forced eviction and demolition of homes under the pretext of “corridor development” initiatives. In her post, Worku drew attention to the hardships faced by longtime residents who were given as little as 20 days’ notice to leave their homes. She highlighted the plight of elderly residents, some of whom are reportedly bedridden, and children who had just begun the new school year, now displaced and at risk of homelessness.
“People are being displaced without regard for the elderly, including those on their death beds, or for the children who have just started school,” Worku wrote in her impassioned plea for a more humane approach to the demolitions. Her calls for adequate notice and support for those affected appear to have struck a nerve, prompting widespread debate.
Worku’s arrest has sparked public outrage, with many Ethiopians taking to social media to express solidarity and condemn the government’s actions. The demolitions and forced displacements have already been the subject of growing protests, with critics accusing the authorities of prioritizing urban development over the rights of citizens.
A recent article from Ethio Chronicles pointed to Worku’s arrest as a sign of increasing intolerance for dissent in Ethiopia. “Azeb’s plea for a more humane approach… was met with a troubling response. Rather than addressing her concerns, the authorities chose to detain her,” the publication reported. It also criticized Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the ruling Oromo Prosperity Party, claiming that they have been systematically silencing criticism. “This incident brings to light the extreme intolerance for dissent,” the article read. “Their ruthless suppression of any criticism reveals a disturbing degradation of freedom of speech in Ethiopia.”
At the time of this report, Addis Ababa’s police force has not provided any explanation or justification for Worku’s arrest, leaving many unanswered questions. Media watchdogs and human rights organizations are closely monitoring the situation, expressing concern over Ethiopia’s increasingly restrictive climate for free speech and civil liberties.
Who Is Azeb Worku?
Born in 1973 in Addis Ababa, Azeb Worku is a well-established figure in Ethiopia’s cultural and media landscape. She grew up with a deep love for literature, and her passion for storytelling has shaped her prolific career. Attending schools like Miyazia Haya-Sost and Atse Naod, Worku later enrolled in the Amharic Literature department at Addis Ababa University, balancing her studies with her passion for theater.
Her breakthrough came through theater, particularly with her production of Eight Women, the first play at the Ethiopian National Theater to feature an all-female cast. The play’s success helped challenge societal norms about women’s roles in Ethiopia’s arts scene, building Azeb’s reputation as a talented and determined creator.
Over the years, Azeb has made significant contributions to Ethiopian media, as a writer, director, and producer for radio, TV, and film. Her credits include writing for the popular TV series Gemena 2 and Dana, as well as producing the film Condominiyemu. She also served as artistic director for the Crossing Boundaries Performing Arts Festival and co-hosted the radio show Yederaw Chewata, which tackled critical social issues, including gender inequality.
A committed feminist and advocate for women’s rights, Azeb uses her platform to mentor young women in the arts, guiding them through an industry where gender-based challenges are common. She has received local and international recognition for her work, including being awarded the French “Order of Arts and Letters” for her contributions to culture.
Azeb’s current role as CEO of Arts TV, coupled with her starring role in the Fana TV series Derso Mels, underscores her continued impact on Ethiopia’s cultural and media landscape.
A Test for Free Speech in Ethiopia
Azeb Worku’s arrest has amplified concerns over Ethiopia’s democratic trajectory, particularly regarding freedom of speech. Her case has quickly become a symbol of the broader struggle for civil rights, with many observers questioning whether the government will allow space for critical voices. The international community is watching closely to see how the situation unfolds, as Worku’s fate may be a bellwether for the country’s commitment to upholding democratic principles.
For now, the situation remains uncertain. With no official charges made public, the detention of Azeb Worku is raising more questions than answers, leaving her supporters and human rights organizations eager for clarity and justice.
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