Ethiopian News Site Editor Detained, Sparking Concerns Over Media Freedom In a disturbing incident that underscores the growing challenges to press freedom in Ethiopia, the editor — in-chief of the Addis Standard, Yonas Kedir, was abducted and physically assaulted by security forces on August 1, 2026.
According to Jakken Publishing, which owns the independent news site, Kedir was held for 24 hours and subjected to “prolonged interrogation “following his abduction.
The following day, security and intelligence officials conducted a raid on the Addis Standard’s offices, inflicting damage and seizing equipment. This raid is seen as part of a pattern of targeting independent news outlets by the Ethiopian government.
The government’s actions are particularly significant following the revocation of the Addis Standard’s media registration in February 2026, on the grounds of violating media ethics and threatening “national interests. “These developments mark a worrying escalation in restrictions on media freedom, suggesting a deliberate attempt by the Ethiopian government to suppress critical reporting and silence dissenting voices. While the Ethiopian government has not yet commented on the incidents, they have been widely criticized by rights groups, who describe the situation as indicative of a broader effort to suppress freedom of speech and press in the country.
The Addis Standard has long been a leading voice for independent journalism in Ethiopia, known for its in — depth reporting on sensitive issues.
The raid and the forced eviction of the news site, which is to be completed within three days, have been decried by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).
The CPJ has called on Ethiopian authorities to cease their campaign to shut down the Addis Standard, emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining a free and independent press. This incident is a stark reminder of the risks that journalists face in Ethiopia as they endeavor to report on important and sensitive issues.
The ongoing struggle for media freedom and the safety of journalists are concerns that cannot be overlooked as they impact the ability of citizens to be well — informed and hold their government accountable.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: BBC Africa
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