KANGAROO COURT FINDS KINIJIT LEADERS GUILTY

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[KINIJIT DIASPORA UNITES!] - [Congressman Payne: U.S. policy in support of human rights in Ethiopia needs significant improvement]
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Tomorrow, we will post reactions, comments and opinions from prominent Diaspora Ethiopians concerning the Kangaroo courts' ruling
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Kaliti, Ethiopia (mail and guardian) -- The 38 members of the Coalition for Union and Democracy (CUD) were all convicted of breaching Ethiopia's Constitution after a trial that they refused to recognise and where they opted not to defend themselves.

Twenty-two were also found guilty of obstructing the exercise of the Constitution; five were convicted of coordinating, leading and encouraging armed violence against the government; and 10 were found guilty of endangering the country's defence.

"The court obliged the defendants to defend themselves, but they have failed to do so," said Judge Adil Ahmed, adding that sentencing would be carried out on July 8.(More...)

Also see:
-VOA: Ethiopia Convicts At Least 38 Opposition Activists
-Associated Press: Ethiopian court convicts 39 opposition leaders
-BBC: Ethiopian leaders guilty
-MET: Ethiopia convicts 38 over post-election unrest
-KINIJIT LEADERS GUILTY (ethio-zagol)
-Meskelsquare's brief report on the ruling

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Statement by Congressman Donald M. Payne

Joint Session with European Union Parliamentarians

"The (U.S) Administration has given the Meles government a free pass when it comes to respect for human rights, the rule of law and democratic freedom. U.S. policy in support of democracy and human rights in Ethiopia needs significant improvement"(More...)
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KINIJIT DIASPORA UNITES!

Ethiopian politics (ETP) would like to congratulate both sides on this historic deal. This agreement shows the political maturity and love for country each side possesses.



At this time, we urge all pro-democracy Ethiopians to refrain from unnecessary and obstructive comments - about who was right or wrong - that could jeopardize this fragile alliance in its infancy. The democratically elected leaders in Ethiopia played an important role from behind bars to unite the Diaspora, we have to make sure their effort is not wasted.
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CLICK HERE TO READ STATEMENT SIGNED BY BOTH SIDES

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