Detention of Eritrean Blue Revolution Movement Leaders in Ethiopia

It has come to our attention that the Ethiopian security authorities have recently detained key leaders of the Eritrean Blue Revolution Movement in Ethiopia. These individuals are well-known justice seekers who have been working peacefully and lawfully to advance the cause of democracy, justice, and human rights for Eritreans in opposition to the Eritrean dictatorship.

As is known, there have been internal divisions within the Blue Revolution Movement in Ethiopia. However, the detained individuals are the legitimately elected leaders who were chosen to guide the movement in Addis Ababa after the Ethiopian government officially granted permission for the establishment of an office in the capital.

The detained individuals — Yonas Mebrahtom, Habtom Gebretsadik, and Zerisenay Meles — are Eritrean refugees and activists who have been advocating for the rights and dignity of the Eritrean people, both in Ethiopia and abroad. Their activities have been peaceful, transparent, and fully conducted within the legal framework of Ethiopian law.

Their detention is deeply concerning and raises serious questions about the treatment of Eritrean refugees and justice seekers in Ethiopia. Refugees who have fled repression and dictatorship in Eritrea should be afforded protection, safety, and justice in Ethiopia — not persecution or arbitrary detention.

We therefore urge:

1. The immediate release of Yonas Mebrahtom, Habtom Gebretsadik, and Zerisenay Meles.

2. A transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding their arrest.

3. Assurance from Ethiopian authorities that Eritrean refugees and activists will not face intimidation, detention, or deportation for their peaceful political activities.

We call upon international organizations, human rights defenders, and diplomatic missions in Ethiopia to closely monitor this situation and to advocate for the safety and freedom of these Eritrean justice seekers.

Shared from F/B Saimon.R