This archive report was first published on 5 August 2020.
On August 5, 2020, an Ethiopian court made a significant decision in the case of Kenyan journalist Yassin Juma, ordering his release on bail. Juma, along with Ethiopian journalist Melese Diribsa and three other individuals, was granted bail after the court found that police officers had failed to present sufficient evidence to prove their guilt.
Yassin Juma's detention began in July, and he was charged with incitement and involvement in violence. The charges stem from his alleged involvement in massive protests that erupted in Ethiopia's Oromia Region following the death of musician Hachalu Hundessa on June 29, 2020.
According to reports, Juma's health had deteriorated while in detention, and he had developed health complications. An official from the Ethiopian embassy had visited him after hearing about his condition.
It is worth noting that Juma's arrest was allegedly linked to his friendship with Ethiopian activist Jawar Mohammed, a fierce critic of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government. Juma was reportedly apprehended at Jawar's home.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had stated that Juma had been granted relevant consular assistance.
