U.N. elections consultant testifies for Daniel and Netsanet, says they "acted within law"

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

Press Release - PLEASE STOP! the PHONE/FAX CAMPAIGN

The Coalition for H.R. 2003 has just learned that H.R. 2003 will be up for consideration during the September session of the House Foreign Affairs Committee meeting.(More...)
____________________

A U.N. elections consultant told an Ethiopian treason trial on Tuesday two anti-poverty activists charged with trying to overthrow the government had been acting within the law.

(Picture - Daniel Bekele(L)Netsanet Demissie(R))

Daniel Bekele, 40, and Netsanet Demissie, 29, are the last defendants out of 131 originally charged in the proceedings that followed post-election violence in 2005 which a parliamentary inquiry said killed 199 civilians and police, and resulted in 30,000 arrests.

The defendants were involved in deploying observers at polling stations in and around the capital Addis Ababa. Most of those originally charged were freed on July 20 after the government published a letter it said opposition leaders had signed admitting their guilt and repenting.

Defence lawyers say Bekele and Netsanet, who work for ActionAid Ethiopia and the Organisation for Social Justice in Ethiopia respectively, refused to sign and want to be acquitted.(More...)

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Daniel and Netsanet deny association with CUDP
-Hailu Shawl testifies in court for Daniel and Netsanet, says they were not members
-Addis Fortune's GOSSIP
-Nearly 12 000 Ethiopians left homeless by floods
-Obscure Dealings: the Ogaden
-Ethiopia: Food Security Situation in Oromiya Worrying - UN
-Ethiopian base attacked in Somalia
-United nations extends mandate in Ethiopia and Eritrea
-Chinese company to construct $500 million industrial park in Ethiopia
-Rastafarians don't give up the fight to live in Ethiopia

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-U.N. resolution on Darfur troops nears vote
-US Lawmakers to Step Up Economic Pressure on Sudan
-Mass purge of Nigerian generals
-A New Mideast Military Alliance?
-Iraqi Leader Faces Revolt Within Party
-Afghan Police Find Body of 2nd South Korean
-"Life in Hell" for South Korean hostages' families
-Japan PM says to explain sex slave stance to U.S.
-Cell phones light up operating room during blackout

Picture of the Day

(Siye Abraha, celebrating his release from prison with his family)
"Ethnic politics is primitive; it doesn’t require intellect, understanding, education or wisdom. It is very elementary, very cheap and dangerous.....I am an Ethiopian, former TPLF official born in Tigray....As a Tigrayan, I would like to say, don’t give up on all Tigrayns just because of what has happened in the past few years. Anyone who is familiar with Ethiopia’s long history Should Know Better. If one Ethiopian starts losing the trust he has for the other, then we will all be in great peril." (loosely translated to English from Siye’s Deutsche Welle interview part 2)

-[AUDIO] Siye's Deutsche Welle interview part 1
-[AUDIO] Siye's Deutsche Welle interview part 2
-Siye: Ethiopians should never give up hope (Amharic)
-Siye Abraha interview with VOA Tigrinya(translated to Amharic)





______________________________________

U.N. elections consultant testifies for Daniel and Netsanet, says they "acted within law"

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

Press Release - PLEASE STOP! the PHONE/FAX CAMPAIGN

The Coalition for H.R. 2003 has just learned that H.R. 2003 will be up for consideration during the September session of the House Foreign Affairs Committee meeting.(More...)
____________________

A U.N. elections consultant told an Ethiopian treason trial on Tuesday two anti-poverty activists charged with trying to overthrow the government had been acting within the law.

(Picture - Daniel Bekele(L)Netsanet Demissie(R))

Daniel Bekele, 40, and Netsanet Demissie, 29, are the last defendants out of 131 originally charged in the proceedings that followed post-election violence in 2005 which a parliamentary inquiry said killed 199 civilians and police, and resulted in 30,000 arrests.

The defendants were involved in deploying observers at polling stations in and around the capital Addis Ababa. Most of those originally charged were freed on July 20 after the government published a letter it said opposition leaders had signed admitting their guilt and repenting.

Defence lawyers say Bekele and Netsanet, who work for ActionAid Ethiopia and the Organisation for Social Justice in Ethiopia respectively, refused to sign and want to be acquitted.(More...)

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Daniel and Netsanet deny association with CUDP
-Hailu Shawl testifies in court for Daniel and Netsanet, says they were not members
-Addis Fortune's GOSSIP
-Nearly 12 000 Ethiopians left homeless by floods
-Obscure Dealings: the Ogaden
-Ethiopia: Food Security Situation in Oromiya Worrying - UN
-Ethiopian base attacked in Somalia
-United nations extends mandate in Ethiopia and Eritrea
-Chinese company to construct $500 million industrial park in Ethiopia
-Rastafarians don't give up the fight to live in Ethiopia

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-U.N. resolution on Darfur troops nears vote
-US Lawmakers to Step Up Economic Pressure on Sudan
-Mass purge of Nigerian generals
-A New Mideast Military Alliance?
-Iraqi Leader Faces Revolt Within Party
-Afghan Police Find Body of 2nd South Korean
-"Life in Hell" for South Korean hostages' families
-Japan PM says to explain sex slave stance to U.S.
-Cell phones light up operating room during blackout

Picture of the Day

(Siye Abraha, celebrating his release from prison with his family)
"Ethnic politics is primitive; it doesn’t require intellect, understanding, education or wisdom. It is very elementary, very cheap and dangerous.....I am an Ethiopian, former TPLF official born in Tigray....As a Tigrayan, I would like to say, don’t give up on all Tigrayns just because of what has happened in the past few years. Anyone who is familiar with Ethiopia’s long history Should Know Better. If one Ethiopian starts losing the trust he has for the other, then we will all be in great peril." (loosely translated to English from Siye’s Deutsche Welle interview part 2)

-[AUDIO] Siye's Deutsche Welle interview part 1
-[AUDIO] Siye's Deutsche Welle interview part 2
-Siye: Ethiopians should never give up hope (Amharic)
-Siye Abraha interview with VOA Tigrinya(translated to Amharic)





______________________________________

Update from The Coalition for H.R. 2003

Congratulations to supporters of H.R.2003 for a successful first day campaign. The Coalition has been advised the fax and telephone of the House Speaker's office have been jammed all day today. The campaign will continue until the Honorable House Speaker Pelosi decides to speak out on why she decided to interfere with a human rights bill.

When calling House Speaker Pelosi's office: Please communicate your displeasure in her interference with the MarkUp of H.R.2003. Please ask the Speaker's office,

"I would like an explanation on why Speaker Pelosi does not want H.R.2003 to be calendared for MarkUP at the Foreign Affairs Committee tomorrow, July 31, 2007":

Please use the following information to contact House Speaker Pelosi at her Washington, DC office:

Telephone # 202-225-4965
Fax# 202-225-8259

District office for House Speaker Pelosi

Tel# 415-556-4862
Fax# 415-861-1670

Update from The Coalition for H.R. 2003

Congratulations to supporters of H.R.2003 for a successful first day campaign. The Coalition has been advised the fax and telephone of the House Speaker's office have been jammed all day today. The campaign will continue until the Honorable House Speaker Pelosi decides to speak out on why she decided to interfere with a human rights bill.

When calling House Speaker Pelosi's office: Please communicate your displeasure in her interference with the MarkUp of H.R.2003. Please ask the Speaker's office,

"I would like an explanation on why Speaker Pelosi does not want H.R.2003 to be calendared for MarkUP at the Foreign Affairs Committee tomorrow, July 31, 2007":

Please use the following information to contact House Speaker Pelosi at her Washington, DC office:

Telephone # 202-225-4965
Fax# 202-225-8259

District office for House Speaker Pelosi

Tel# 415-556-4862
Fax# 415-861-1670

The Week in review plus weekend updates

____________________

Also:
- Weekend News and Updates
____________________

Urgent!!! The Coalition for H.R. 2003 is asking Ethiopians to Send Fax letters to Speaker Nancy Pelosi IMMEDIATELY
____________________

The Week in review

TOP STORIES FROM THE PAST WEEK

• Reactions from the Diaspora on the release of the CUDP leadership
• First Press Release from CUDP leadership since freedom (pdf)
• Bipartisan Duo of Ex-Congressional Heavyweights Blocking Action Against Ethiopia
• Ethiopia turns its critics into untouchables
• AMNESTY: Forcible return/Fear of torture - Ethiopians in Sudan (pdf)
• SOCEPP: Ethiopians facing an involuntary repatriation from Sudan (pdf)
• Ethiopia tells Red Cross to leave the Ogaden region within Seven days
• Press Release from the Red Cross on expulsion from ogaden
• More civilians fleeing Mogadishu violence
• Exiled Somali MPs reject call to peace talks
• Eritrea asks China to help break Ethiopia border deadlock

Weekend News and Updates

KIL exits gracefully

Yesterday, July 27, 2007, in a press conference, the leadership of KIL announced the disbandment of the organization. The need that called for the existence of such an organization has been fulfilled with the release of kinijit's leaders, they said, it was now time to confer with the leadership in Addis on how to restructure dispora groups.

Kinijit via press release from its chairman Hailu Shawel has announced the end of Diaspora political leadership organizations. On its website, the other diaspora political entity (council), is also telling readers that it is ending its political leadership responsibilities. Aside from that however, all indications are the group wishes to continue functioning as is. This, many believe, could hinder diaspora reconciliation efforts in addition to being a potential source of constant headache for Kinijit’s leaders in Ethiopia.

Many Kinijit supporters in the diaspora are hoping for a fresh start. They are looking forward to closing that part of their history, which they admit they are not too proud of, and moving on to bigger and better things.

Press releases
-Kinijt dissolves Diaspora political leadership organizations
-Final press release from KIL
-Waiting on KIC’s final press release....

________________

[AUDIO] -- Addis dimts: Ephrem Issac and Al Mariam discuss H.R. 2003 (Via EMF)
________________

Press release from the coalition for H.R. 2003

Congressman Lantos directed not to mark up H.R. 2003

Meles buys Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority Leader Hoyer
Ephrem Isaac lobbied hard against H.R. 2003

The Coalition for HR 2003 has learned that Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Tom Lantos was directed by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (San Francisco) and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (Maryland) not to mark-up H.R. 2003 on July 31, 2007. The reasons for the directive are not clear.

Preliminary investigations suggest that neither Chairman Tom Lantos nor Chairman Donald Payne were consulted prior to issuance of the directive.

The Coalition is informed and believes that over the past few days, Meles Zenawi’s lobbyists from DLA Piper, State Department officials and others were engaged in intense lobbying of Pelosi and Hoyer.

Recent reports in national newspapers and magazines in the United States have documented the involvement of DLA Piper lobbyists to defeat H.R. 2003.

The Coalition has further learned that Prof. Ephrem Isaac, who has recently been masquerading as a “shimagle”, has been engaged in intense lobbying efforts against H.R. 2003 in Congress. He was observed visiting various congressional offices today chaperoned and accompanied by Congressman Gary Ackerman of New York. The Coalition is investigating information that Ephrem Isaac is mobilizing powerful Jewish leaders and groups in the United States against H.R. 2003.

The Coalition respectfully notifies Ethiopian Americans in California and Maryland, particularly in the congressional districts of Pelosi and Hoyer, to prepare for vigorous and intense advocacy in the coming days.

The Coalition will provide further statement on these developments shortly. The Coalition will prepare an advocacy action plan in the near future.

http://www.hr2003.org
E-mail: passhr2003@hr2003.org
Tel: 323-988-5688 Fax: 323-924-5563
URGENT! For Immediate Release
July 27, 2007


________________________________________

The Week in review plus weekend updates

____________________

Also:
- Weekend News and Updates
____________________

Urgent!!! The Coalition for H.R. 2003 is asking Ethiopians to Send Fax letters to Speaker Nancy Pelosi IMMEDIATELY
____________________

The Week in review

TOP STORIES FROM THE PAST WEEK

• Reactions from the Diaspora on the release of the CUDP leadership
• First Press Release from CUDP leadership since freedom (pdf)
• Bipartisan Duo of Ex-Congressional Heavyweights Blocking Action Against Ethiopia
• Ethiopia turns its critics into untouchables
• AMNESTY: Forcible return/Fear of torture - Ethiopians in Sudan (pdf)
• SOCEPP: Ethiopians facing an involuntary repatriation from Sudan (pdf)
• Ethiopia tells Red Cross to leave the Ogaden region within Seven days
• Press Release from the Red Cross on expulsion from ogaden
• More civilians fleeing Mogadishu violence
• Exiled Somali MPs reject call to peace talks
• Eritrea asks China to help break Ethiopia border deadlock

Weekend News and Updates

KIL exits gracefully

Yesterday, July 27, 2007, in a press conference, the leadership of KIL announced the disbandment of the organization. The need that called for the existence of such an organization has been fulfilled with the release of kinijit's leaders, they said, it was now time to confer with the leadership in Addis on how to restructure dispora groups.

Kinijit via press release from its chairman Hailu Shawel has announced the end of Diaspora political leadership organizations. On its website, the other diaspora political entity (council), is also telling readers that it is ending its political leadership responsibilities. Aside from that however, all indications are the group wishes to continue functioning as is. This, many believe, could hinder diaspora reconciliation efforts in addition to being a potential source of constant headache for Kinijit’s leaders in Ethiopia.

Many Kinijit supporters in the diaspora are hoping for a fresh start. They are looking forward to closing that part of their history, which they admit they are not too proud of, and moving on to bigger and better things.

Press releases
-Kinijt dissolves Diaspora political leadership organizations
-Final press release from KIL
-Waiting on KIC’s final press release....

________________

[AUDIO] -- Addis dimts: Ephrem Issac and Al Mariam discuss H.R. 2003 (Via EMF)
________________

Press release from the coalition for H.R. 2003

Congressman Lantos directed not to mark up H.R. 2003

Meles buys Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority Leader Hoyer
Ephrem Isaac lobbied hard against H.R. 2003

The Coalition for HR 2003 has learned that Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Tom Lantos was directed by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (San Francisco) and Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (Maryland) not to mark-up H.R. 2003 on July 31, 2007. The reasons for the directive are not clear.

Preliminary investigations suggest that neither Chairman Tom Lantos nor Chairman Donald Payne were consulted prior to issuance of the directive.

The Coalition is informed and believes that over the past few days, Meles Zenawi’s lobbyists from DLA Piper, State Department officials and others were engaged in intense lobbying of Pelosi and Hoyer.

Recent reports in national newspapers and magazines in the United States have documented the involvement of DLA Piper lobbyists to defeat H.R. 2003.

The Coalition has further learned that Prof. Ephrem Isaac, who has recently been masquerading as a “shimagle”, has been engaged in intense lobbying efforts against H.R. 2003 in Congress. He was observed visiting various congressional offices today chaperoned and accompanied by Congressman Gary Ackerman of New York. The Coalition is investigating information that Ephrem Isaac is mobilizing powerful Jewish leaders and groups in the United States against H.R. 2003.

The Coalition respectfully notifies Ethiopian Americans in California and Maryland, particularly in the congressional districts of Pelosi and Hoyer, to prepare for vigorous and intense advocacy in the coming days.

The Coalition will provide further statement on these developments shortly. The Coalition will prepare an advocacy action plan in the near future.

http://www.hr2003.org
E-mail: passhr2003@hr2003.org
Tel: 323-988-5688 Fax: 323-924-5563
URGENT! For Immediate Release
July 27, 2007


________________________________________

Ethiopia's CUD sees bright future

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

Addis Ababa - Ethiopia's main opposition party on Thursday said it was committed to political reconciliation but vowed to keep struggling for democracy in the troubled African nation.

Nearly a week after the pardon of 38 opposition figures sentenced to heavy jail terms in connection with deadly incidents that erupted in the aftermath of disputed 2005 polls, the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) issued its first statement.

The opposition alliance voiced its objections about the "propaganda" that surrounded the collective pardon, which the regime said it granted after the 38 signed a document admitting mistakes.

"We have chosen to overlook the government propaganda and not to respond in kind because it would serve no purpose other than poisoning the spirit of reconciliation that we, the elders, and the Ethiopian people in general would like to see prevailing," they said. (More...)
____________________

SPECIAL ALERT FROM THE COALITION FOR HR 2003

ETP’s Reaction to the release of the Prisoners of conscience and Remark on Diaspora Kinijit
____________________

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Hearing Today for Final Two in Ethiopia Treason Trial
-Ethiopia turns its critics into untouchables
-Former Bucknell professor, Berhanu Nega, freed
-Dr. Yacob vows to finish what he started
-Press Release from the Red Cross on expulsion from ogaden
-U.N.: Eritrea giving arms to Somalis tied to al Qaeda
-Exiled Somali MPs reject call to peace talks
-5 die in explosions in Somali capital, witnesses say
-Is Somalia a Proxy War Between Ethiopia and Eritrea?
-US, Ethiopia accused over Somalia
____________________

[AUDIO] Birtukan Mideksa (VP of Kinijit) Interview with DW
[AUDIO] Dr Hailu Araya (Spokesperson for Kinijit) Interview with VOA
____________________
INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-French-Libyan Nuke Deal Criticized
-Abbas's Fatah vows reform, purge after Gaza rout
-Radical Students Retake Islamabad Mosque
-Australia Frees Doctor In U.K. Plot Case
-French ex-PM faces formal inquiry
-Shocking revelations of drinking, sabotage shake NASA
-Raul Castro fills role for Fidel again
-Plant halts bleeding, speeds healing

Picture of the day

(Prince Alemayehu, Son of Emperor Tewodros)
Prince Alemayehu, born in 1861, was the son of the Empress Tiruwork and Emperor Tewodros, in a royal lineage that claims to go back to King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. When British forces conquered the imperial fortress of Magdala in 1868, the emperor committed suicide rather than turn himself in.

The British, who carried back numerous treasures and war trophies, decided to bring the prince and his mother to England reportedly as hostages, but the empress died during the trip due to reasons that remain unclear. The young prince became a student at Sandhurst, the prestigious military academy, but "his was no happy life, full of difficulties of every kind, and he was so sensitive, thinking that people stared at him because of his colour, that I fear he would never have been happy," the queen is quoted as writing in her diary.(More...)





_____________________________________

Ethiopia's CUD sees bright future

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

Addis Ababa - Ethiopia's main opposition party on Thursday said it was committed to political reconciliation but vowed to keep struggling for democracy in the troubled African nation.

Nearly a week after the pardon of 38 opposition figures sentenced to heavy jail terms in connection with deadly incidents that erupted in the aftermath of disputed 2005 polls, the Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD) issued its first statement.

The opposition alliance voiced its objections about the "propaganda" that surrounded the collective pardon, which the regime said it granted after the 38 signed a document admitting mistakes.

"We have chosen to overlook the government propaganda and not to respond in kind because it would serve no purpose other than poisoning the spirit of reconciliation that we, the elders, and the Ethiopian people in general would like to see prevailing," they said. (More...)
____________________

SPECIAL ALERT FROM THE COALITION FOR HR 2003

ETP’s Reaction to the release of the Prisoners of conscience and Remark on Diaspora Kinijit
____________________

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Hearing Today for Final Two in Ethiopia Treason Trial
-Ethiopia turns its critics into untouchables
-Former Bucknell professor, Berhanu Nega, freed
-Dr. Yacob vows to finish what he started
-Press Release from the Red Cross on expulsion from ogaden
-U.N.: Eritrea giving arms to Somalis tied to al Qaeda
-Exiled Somali MPs reject call to peace talks
-5 die in explosions in Somali capital, witnesses say
-Is Somalia a Proxy War Between Ethiopia and Eritrea?
-US, Ethiopia accused over Somalia
____________________

[AUDIO] Birtukan Mideksa (VP of Kinijit) Interview with DW
[AUDIO] Dr Hailu Araya (Spokesperson for Kinijit) Interview with VOA
____________________
INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-French-Libyan Nuke Deal Criticized
-Abbas's Fatah vows reform, purge after Gaza rout
-Radical Students Retake Islamabad Mosque
-Australia Frees Doctor In U.K. Plot Case
-French ex-PM faces formal inquiry
-Shocking revelations of drinking, sabotage shake NASA
-Raul Castro fills role for Fidel again
-Plant halts bleeding, speeds healing

Picture of the day

(Prince Alemayehu, Son of Emperor Tewodros)
Prince Alemayehu, born in 1861, was the son of the Empress Tiruwork and Emperor Tewodros, in a royal lineage that claims to go back to King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. When British forces conquered the imperial fortress of Magdala in 1868, the emperor committed suicide rather than turn himself in.

The British, who carried back numerous treasures and war trophies, decided to bring the prince and his mother to England reportedly as hostages, but the empress died during the trip due to reasons that remain unclear. The young prince became a student at Sandhurst, the prestigious military academy, but "his was no happy life, full of difficulties of every kind, and he was so sensitive, thinking that people stared at him because of his colour, that I fear he would never have been happy," the queen is quoted as writing in her diary.(More...)





_____________________________________

ETP: Reaction and Remark

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

First Press Release from CUDP leadership since freedom

____________________


ETP's Reaction to the release of the prisoners of conscience

A big “thank you and congratulations!” -- to the released prisoners. On May 2005 they opened a new chapter in Ethiopia’s history; they ignited our passion and inspired us to hope and work for a better Ethiopia.

A big “we really appreciate it!” -- to MEP Ana Gomes, Congressman Chris Smith, Congressman Donald Payne and the many more, in the U.S and EU, who supported the cause of democracy in Ethiopia. You were instrumental in freeing Ethiopia’s elected; we are deeply appreciative.

A big “what would we have done without you?” -- to EthioZagol, Addis ferengi, Lewit and the rest - who were and still are blogging from the motherland - and served as flashlights in the brutal darkness that is EPRDF’s post 2005 Ethiopia. Keep up the good work.

And finally, "a nod of recognition" -- to Ethiopia’s ruling party. It is a bit difficult giving credit to the government for releasing prisoners that it shouldn’t have jailed in the first place. It is even more difficult because of what the govt. did in the days prior to their release (the reprehensible campaign to discredit the CUDP leadership); we also can’t rule out the possibility that the ruling party may on a whim try to incarcerate them once more; Nevertheless, in the spirit of reconciliation and the positive politics that Kinijit is trying to bring to Ethiopia; we concur that releasing the prisoners of conscience was a step in the right direction - we hope many more steps will soon follow.

Also see:
-Reactions from the Diaspora on the release of the CUDP leadership

ETP's remark on Diaspora Kinijit

When the CUDP leadership was incarcerated in Ethiopia, a leadership vacuum was created. The Diaspora had to fill this void and did so by establishing management committees to facilitate the struggle. Ethiopians should be very grateful and appreciative of individuals who dedicated their time, energy and finances involved in these organizations.

However, now that the CUDP leadership in Addis Abeba is back in business, it is time, as all sides have promised, to bring to an end the Dispora organizations (leadership and council) and restructure diaspora Kinijit in a manner that reflects developments in Ethiopia. Otherwise, there is a real possibility that the infighting and bickering of the Diaspora can negatively affect the struggle for democracy in Ethiopia, where the newly freed leaders are already facing many challenges.

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Bipartisan Duo of Ex-Congressional Heavyweights trying to Block H.R. 2003
-CPJ: Ethiopian government pardons four journalists, revives genocide charges against others
-Ethiopian diaspora keeps pressure on U.S. Congress
-European Union on the release of the members of opposition in Ethiopia
-Ethiopia evicts Red Cross from volatile region
-Has the U.S.-Ethiopian invasion of Somalia achieved any of its goals?
-Commentary on Ethiopian Socio-Cultural Rules (Maru Gubena)
-Ethiopia: Ewan McGregor takes the ‘Long Way Down’ to support landmine education

INTERNATIONAL NEW

-Zimbabwe targets women protesters
-Sarkozy to boost EU-Libya links
-U.S., Iran envoys meet, clash
-Arab League Delegation Visits Israel
-UK flood victims line up for water
-India gets first woman president
-Black Holes Devour Matter Like Piranhas
-Oprah tops list of highest paid TV stars

(If you have suggestions on whom we should feature on ETP’s ‘Picture of the day’ segment, send your emails to ethiopianpolitics AT yahoo DOT com)

Picture of the day

(Ras Alula Aba Nega of Tigray, Ethiopia)
Some historians have characterized Ras Alula of Tigray as the most brilliant general in the records of the anti-colonial struggle. He has successfully planned and carried out military operations, protecting Ethiopia’s interests and territorial integrity, against the Ottoman Egypt at Gundet on 1875, Gura 1876, Aylet 1887, Sannhit 1880; and against the Mahdists invaders at Kufit on 1885, at Gallabat (Metemma) 1889; and against colonial Italy at Dogali 1887, Ambalage 1889, Makale 1896 culminating at Adowa on 1-2 March, 1896.(Professor Kinfe Abraham)

If Ras Alula was still alive, who do you think he would vote for, Kinijit Or EPRDF?

To answer this question, read his biography “Ras Alula Abba Nega: An Ethiopian and African Hero”




_______________________________________

ETP: Reaction and Remark

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

First Press Release from CUDP leadership since freedom

____________________


ETP's Reaction to the release of the prisoners of conscience

A big “thank you and congratulations!” -- to the released prisoners. On May 2005 they opened a new chapter in Ethiopia’s history; they ignited our passion and inspired us to hope and work for a better Ethiopia.

A big “we really appreciate it!” -- to MEP Ana Gomes, Congressman Chris Smith, Congressman Donald Payne and the many more, in the U.S and EU, who supported the cause of democracy in Ethiopia. You were instrumental in freeing Ethiopia’s elected; we are deeply appreciative.

A big “what would we have done without you?” -- to EthioZagol, Addis ferengi, Lewit and the rest - who were and still are blogging from the motherland - and served as flashlights in the brutal darkness that is EPRDF’s post 2005 Ethiopia. Keep up the good work.

And finally, "a nod of recognition" -- to Ethiopia’s ruling party. It is a bit difficult giving credit to the government for releasing prisoners that it shouldn’t have jailed in the first place. It is even more difficult because of what the govt. did in the days prior to their release (the reprehensible campaign to discredit the CUDP leadership); we also can’t rule out the possibility that the ruling party may on a whim try to incarcerate them once more; Nevertheless, in the spirit of reconciliation and the positive politics that Kinijit is trying to bring to Ethiopia; we concur that releasing the prisoners of conscience was a step in the right direction - we hope many more steps will soon follow.

Also see:
-Reactions from the Diaspora on the release of the CUDP leadership

ETP's remark on Diaspora Kinijit

When the CUDP leadership was incarcerated in Ethiopia, a leadership vacuum was created. The Diaspora had to fill this void and did so by establishing management committees to facilitate the struggle. Ethiopians should be very grateful and appreciative of individuals who dedicated their time, energy and finances involved in these organizations.

However, now that the CUDP leadership in Addis Abeba is back in business, it is time, as all sides have promised, to bring to an end the Dispora organizations (leadership and council) and restructure diaspora Kinijit in a manner that reflects developments in Ethiopia. Otherwise, there is a real possibility that the infighting and bickering of the Diaspora can negatively affect the struggle for democracy in Ethiopia, where the newly freed leaders are already facing many challenges.

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Bipartisan Duo of Ex-Congressional Heavyweights trying to Block H.R. 2003
-CPJ: Ethiopian government pardons four journalists, revives genocide charges against others
-Ethiopian diaspora keeps pressure on U.S. Congress
-European Union on the release of the members of opposition in Ethiopia
-Ethiopia evicts Red Cross from volatile region
-Has the U.S.-Ethiopian invasion of Somalia achieved any of its goals?
-Commentary on Ethiopian Socio-Cultural Rules (Maru Gubena)
-Ethiopia: Ewan McGregor takes the ‘Long Way Down’ to support landmine education

INTERNATIONAL NEW

-Zimbabwe targets women protesters
-Sarkozy to boost EU-Libya links
-U.S., Iran envoys meet, clash
-Arab League Delegation Visits Israel
-UK flood victims line up for water
-India gets first woman president
-Black Holes Devour Matter Like Piranhas
-Oprah tops list of highest paid TV stars

(If you have suggestions on whom we should feature on ETP’s ‘Picture of the day’ segment, send your emails to ethiopianpolitics AT yahoo DOT com)

Picture of the day

(Ras Alula Aba Nega of Tigray, Ethiopia)
Some historians have characterized Ras Alula of Tigray as the most brilliant general in the records of the anti-colonial struggle. He has successfully planned and carried out military operations, protecting Ethiopia’s interests and territorial integrity, against the Ottoman Egypt at Gundet on 1875, Gura 1876, Aylet 1887, Sannhit 1880; and against the Mahdists invaders at Kufit on 1885, at Gallabat (Metemma) 1889; and against colonial Italy at Dogali 1887, Ambalage 1889, Makale 1896 culminating at Adowa on 1-2 March, 1896.(Professor Kinfe Abraham)

If Ras Alula was still alive, who do you think he would vote for, Kinijit Or EPRDF?

To answer this question, read his biography “Ras Alula Abba Nega: An Ethiopian and African Hero”




_______________________________________

NPR Report : Ethiopia Releases Prisoners

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

[AUDIO] NPR Report : Ethiopia Releases Prisoners

On Friday, Ethiopia began releasing prisoners it had jailed two years ago in a crackdown on political opponents. Some human rights advocates on Capitol Hill are taking credit, saying it pays to put pressure on repressive regimes. The U.S. is now giving closer scrutiny to Ethiopia's human rights record at home.[Listen...]

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Congressional Ethiopian American Caucus Celebrates the Ethiopian Millennium upon release of Political Prisoners
-Chairman Donald M. Payne Welcomes Release of Prisoners in Ethiopia
-Reactions from the Diaspora on the release of the CUDP leadership
-SOCEPP: Release Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie
-We’ve just won the Battle but not the Victory
-The moral hazards of dealing with Ethiopia's Meles Zenawi (Washington Post)

Refugees in Sudan
-AMNESTY: Forcible return/Fear of torture/Arbitrary detention - Ethiopian and Eritrean nationals
-SOCEPP-CAN: Ethiopian Refugees facing an involuntary repatriation from Sudan

The Ogaden
-Ethiopia rebels warn catastrophe looming in Ogaden
-Ethiopia tells Red Cross to leave the Ogaden region within Seven days
-WFP says no Ethiopia aid blockade, but has concerns

Eritrea, Somalia
-Eritrea asks China to help break Ethiopia border deadlock
-More civilians fleeing Mogadishu violence

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-HIV medics freed after Libya-EU deal
-Mugabe vows to save sick economy
-Obama, Clinton clash in YouTube debate
-Iranian support for Iraq militias up despite talks: US envoy
-Blair on His First Trip As Peace Envoy
-Earthquake damage at nuclear plant raises questions in Japan

Picture of the day

Emperor Haile Selassie was born 115 years ago yesterday, 23 July, 1892, in Enjersa Goro, just outside the city of Harrar.

The ultimate African diplomat

(Haile Selassie Mediating between southern Sudanese insurgents (the Anya Nya) and the Sudan government in Addis Ababa, 72; His mediation efforts were responsible for 11 years of relative peace in the Sudan. This scene was later replicated by reggae singer Bob Marley on his “One Love Peace Concert” in April of 78, when he asked rival political leaders of 'the Jamaican Labor Party' and 'the People's National Party' on stage and managed to get them to shake hands. )

Haile Selassie, a gifted diplomat, was a player in the international seen. "He became a leader in the Pan-African movement, stressing African unity to deal with common problems and concerns. He supported independence for former European colonies, condemned South Africa's foreign and internal policy of racial segregation (apartheid), and sought to limit French nuclear tests in the Sahara. He also took a leading role in the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU). Having the organization establish its permanent headquarters in Addis Ababa further enhanced his international prestige. He successfully mediated the border dispute between Morocco and Algeria in 1963 and then intervened on the side of Nigeria during its bloody civil war, which began in the late 1960s when Christians in the South broke away and formed a separate nation called Biafra." (James J. Podesta)

-Learn more about the life of Emperor Haile Selassie I


...

_____________________________________

NPR Report : Ethiopia Releases Prisoners

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

[AUDIO] NPR Report : Ethiopia Releases Prisoners

On Friday, Ethiopia began releasing prisoners it had jailed two years ago in a crackdown on political opponents. Some human rights advocates on Capitol Hill are taking credit, saying it pays to put pressure on repressive regimes. The U.S. is now giving closer scrutiny to Ethiopia's human rights record at home.[Listen...]

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Congressional Ethiopian American Caucus Celebrates the Ethiopian Millennium upon release of Political Prisoners
-Chairman Donald M. Payne Welcomes Release of Prisoners in Ethiopia
-Reactions from the Diaspora on the release of the CUDP leadership
-SOCEPP: Release Daniel Bekele and Netsanet Demissie
-We’ve just won the Battle but not the Victory
-The moral hazards of dealing with Ethiopia's Meles Zenawi (Washington Post)

Refugees in Sudan
-AMNESTY: Forcible return/Fear of torture/Arbitrary detention - Ethiopian and Eritrean nationals
-SOCEPP-CAN: Ethiopian Refugees facing an involuntary repatriation from Sudan

The Ogaden
-Ethiopia rebels warn catastrophe looming in Ogaden
-Ethiopia tells Red Cross to leave the Ogaden region within Seven days
-WFP says no Ethiopia aid blockade, but has concerns

Eritrea, Somalia
-Eritrea asks China to help break Ethiopia border deadlock
-More civilians fleeing Mogadishu violence

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-HIV medics freed after Libya-EU deal
-Mugabe vows to save sick economy
-Obama, Clinton clash in YouTube debate
-Iranian support for Iraq militias up despite talks: US envoy
-Blair on His First Trip As Peace Envoy
-Earthquake damage at nuclear plant raises questions in Japan

Picture of the day

Emperor Haile Selassie was born 115 years ago yesterday, 23 July, 1892, in Enjersa Goro, just outside the city of Harrar.

The ultimate African diplomat

(Haile Selassie Mediating between southern Sudanese insurgents (the Anya Nya) and the Sudan government in Addis Ababa, 72; His mediation efforts were responsible for 11 years of relative peace in the Sudan. This scene was later replicated by reggae singer Bob Marley on his “One Love Peace Concert” in April of 78, when he asked rival political leaders of 'the Jamaican Labor Party' and 'the People's National Party' on stage and managed to get them to shake hands. )

Haile Selassie, a gifted diplomat, was a player in the international seen. "He became a leader in the Pan-African movement, stressing African unity to deal with common problems and concerns. He supported independence for former European colonies, condemned South Africa's foreign and internal policy of racial segregation (apartheid), and sought to limit French nuclear tests in the Sahara. He also took a leading role in the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU). Having the organization establish its permanent headquarters in Addis Ababa further enhanced his international prestige. He successfully mediated the border dispute between Morocco and Algeria in 1963 and then intervened on the side of Nigeria during its bloody civil war, which began in the late 1960s when Christians in the South broke away and formed a separate nation called Biafra." (James J. Podesta)

-Learn more about the life of Emperor Haile Selassie I


...

_____________________________________

LEADERS OF THE POPULAR DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT IN ETHIOPIA OUT OF JAIL!

NAIROBI, July 20 -- The Ethiopian government on Friday pardoned 38 of the country's top political opposition leaders, released them from prison and drove them in three minibuses to homes they had not seen in nearly two years.

Across the sprawling capital of Addis Ababa, a stronghold of the opposition party, singing and exuberant celebrations carried on into the evening, though a sense of uncertainty lingered.

"The only thing I can tell you is that we are happy," said the brother of the city's elected mayor, Berhanu Nega, who was among those released. "We do not know what the future is going to be like, but I can tell you there is happiness all over the city."(More...)




________________________________

LEADERS OF THE POPULAR DEMOCRACY MOVEMENT IN ETHIOPIA OUT OF JAIL!

NAIROBI, July 20 -- The Ethiopian government on Friday pardoned 38 of the country's top political opposition leaders, released them from prison and drove them in three minibuses to homes they had not seen in nearly two years.

Across the sprawling capital of Addis Ababa, a stronghold of the opposition party, singing and exuberant celebrations carried on into the evening, though a sense of uncertainty lingered.

"The only thing I can tell you is that we are happy," said the brother of the city's elected mayor, Berhanu Nega, who was among those released. "We do not know what the future is going to be like, but I can tell you there is happiness all over the city."(More...)




________________________________

Ethiopia's silent emergency

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

A series of severe droughts have scarred Ethiopia. Millions of people now face critical water shortages and are unable to grow enough food to feed their families. As a result, more than 45% of the population are undernourished.

Malnutrition is the state in which the body is so deprived of nutrients that a person cannot continue growing, learning, doing physical work or fighting disease. Children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the elderly are the most vulnerable to malnutrition.(More...)

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Letter to the U.S. Senate (Obang Metho)
-The Politics of Deception (Girma Kassa)
-Leaders reaffirm commitment to the eight principles (ethiozagol)
-Wall Street Journal: Democracy on Trial in Ethiopia
-Brain drain still hurting countries like Ethiopia
-6 children killed in Somalia
-African Democracy Asks: "Where Is US?"
-Liya Kebede #11 on Forbes’ list of world’s richest models

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-Sierra Leone court slaps lengthy terms on rebel chiefs
-Oprah takes out big guns for Obama
-Pearl widow sues Pakistani bank over husband's murder
-Chirac faces Paris scandal judge
-New peace envoy Tony Blair to Make His First Appearance
-Russia Matches U.K. Diplomat Expulsions
-We smoked pot, British ministers admit
-'The Sopranos' Nominated For 15 Emmy Awards

Picture of the day


(H.E. Dr Merera Gudina, founder of the Oromo National Congress ONC. Picture by Andrew Heavens)
Dr. Berhanu Nega on his book ‘yenetsanet goh siked’ expresses the fondness and respect he has for Dr. Merera Gudina. To understand why Dr. Berhanu feels this way, just listen to Dr. Merera’s VOA interview from Yesterday. This interview clearly demonstrates the man’s integrity and courage.

-[AUDIO] – Dr. Merera Gudina on VOA

P.S – As an added bonus, Dr. Merera's interview is driving EPRDF apologists everywhere Crazy!

Also read transcript of Dr. Merera's interview with CNN on September of 2005 about the election



.
_____________________________________

Ethiopia's silent emergency

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day
____________________

A series of severe droughts have scarred Ethiopia. Millions of people now face critical water shortages and are unable to grow enough food to feed their families. As a result, more than 45% of the population are undernourished.

Malnutrition is the state in which the body is so deprived of nutrients that a person cannot continue growing, learning, doing physical work or fighting disease. Children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the elderly are the most vulnerable to malnutrition.(More...)

Today's Top HEADLINES

-Letter to the U.S. Senate (Obang Metho)
-The Politics of Deception (Girma Kassa)
-Leaders reaffirm commitment to the eight principles (ethiozagol)
-Wall Street Journal: Democracy on Trial in Ethiopia
-Brain drain still hurting countries like Ethiopia
-6 children killed in Somalia
-African Democracy Asks: "Where Is US?"
-Liya Kebede #11 on Forbes’ list of world’s richest models

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-Sierra Leone court slaps lengthy terms on rebel chiefs
-Oprah takes out big guns for Obama
-Pearl widow sues Pakistani bank over husband's murder
-Chirac faces Paris scandal judge
-New peace envoy Tony Blair to Make His First Appearance
-Russia Matches U.K. Diplomat Expulsions
-We smoked pot, British ministers admit
-'The Sopranos' Nominated For 15 Emmy Awards

Picture of the day


(H.E. Dr Merera Gudina, founder of the Oromo National Congress ONC. Picture by Andrew Heavens)
Dr. Berhanu Nega on his book ‘yenetsanet goh siked’ expresses the fondness and respect he has for Dr. Merera Gudina. To understand why Dr. Berhanu feels this way, just listen to Dr. Merera’s VOA interview from Yesterday. This interview clearly demonstrates the man’s integrity and courage.

-[AUDIO] – Dr. Merera Gudina on VOA

P.S – As an added bonus, Dr. Merera's interview is driving EPRDF apologists everywhere Crazy!

Also read transcript of Dr. Merera's interview with CNN on September of 2005 about the election



.
_____________________________________

Wall Street Journal: Democracy on Trial in Ethiopia

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Update: Unanimous vote sends H.R. 2003 successfully out of the Subcommittee on Africa

[VIDEO]--Mark-up of H.R. 2003
[AUDIO]-- US Legislation on Ethiopia Democracy Moves Forward
Press release from the coalition for H.R. 2003
____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day


(The Wall Street Journal)

Let's play name-that-state. After the EU declared its 2005 elections flawed, this country's troops killed 193 protestors and arrested 20,000 more. Last week, 42 of the accused were convicted of inciting violence to overthrow the state (down from an original charge of genocide and treason). Thirty-five were condemned to life in prison and forbidden to vote on Monday. Some of the accused were journalists, so their publishing houses were fined and closed.

Did you guess Ethiopia? Probably not, since this African state has often been held up as a pillar of good governance on a troubled continent. In just over a decade, Ethiopia went from military rule to a parliamentary system. But this democracy is on paper only.

The convictions are not an isolated incident, nor are the 42 defendants just any opposition figures. They include the elected mayor of Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, a former Harvard scholar and a former U.N. envoy. They've been condemned to the same fate, life in prison, as ousted military strongman Mengistu Hailee Mariam, who is held responsible for the murder of 150,000 academics and university students in two decades in power.(More...)

Today's Top HEADLINES

-[AUDIO] CSIS Analyst Stephen Morrison on developments concerning CUD leaders
-US Seeks Clemency for Ethiopian Opposition Leaders
-Congress,Bush exasperated by Ethiopia's backsliding democracy
-Congresswoman Drakes' statement on Sentencing of Dr. Yacob
-UN opens new Somali refugee camp in Ethiopia
-Deadly Mogadishu blasts overshadow peace talks

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-MANDELA TURNS 89, LAUNCHES 'A ROBUST FORCE FOR GOOD'
-Water find 'MAY END Darfur war'
-US: Top al-Qaida in Iraq figure captured
-Almost 200 Feared Dead in Plane Crash in Brazil
-Berezovsky tells of 'hitman plot'
-Quake forces Toyota to halt production
-Dave Chappelle OK after brief hospitalization
-Football match for Mandela's 89th birthday

Picture of the day

(TIME Magazine Cover: Soviet physicist and legendary human rights activist Andrei Sakharov - May 14, 1990)
"Andrei Sakharov, by courageously speaking truth to power, he became the conscience of the cold war and inspired the movement that toppled Soviet communism" - Time

Professor Mesfin Wolde Mariam, founder of the Ethiopian human rights council, was nominated for the “Sakharov” prize in 2006. The European Union, who gives out this award annually, nominates individuals for their efforts in promoting human rights and courageously resisting oppression. There are many striking similarities between Andrei Sakharov and Mesfin wolde Maiam; for instance, both started out academics in a scientific field but later turned activist due to the oppressive political climate they found themselves in.

Find out what other similarities there are between these two renowned human rights advocates;

-Biography of Andrei Sakharov (Time)
-Mesfin Wolde-Mariam, the Conscience of a Nation (Biography)

P.S – Professor Mesfin Wolde-Mariam is currently jailed by the dictatorial regime in Ethiopia; human rights organizations from all over the world are appealing for his release. To see what you can do to help, click here.


.


_____________________________________

Wall Street Journal: Democracy on Trial in Ethiopia

Check back with ETP for more news throughout the day

____________________

Update: Unanimous vote sends H.R. 2003 successfully out of the Subcommittee on Africa

[VIDEO]--Mark-up of H.R. 2003
[AUDIO]-- US Legislation on Ethiopia Democracy Moves Forward
Press release from the coalition for H.R. 2003
____________________

Also:
- Today's Top HEADLINES
- INTERNATIONAL news
- Picture of the day


(The Wall Street Journal)

Let's play name-that-state. After the EU declared its 2005 elections flawed, this country's troops killed 193 protestors and arrested 20,000 more. Last week, 42 of the accused were convicted of inciting violence to overthrow the state (down from an original charge of genocide and treason). Thirty-five were condemned to life in prison and forbidden to vote on Monday. Some of the accused were journalists, so their publishing houses were fined and closed.

Did you guess Ethiopia? Probably not, since this African state has often been held up as a pillar of good governance on a troubled continent. In just over a decade, Ethiopia went from military rule to a parliamentary system. But this democracy is on paper only.

The convictions are not an isolated incident, nor are the 42 defendants just any opposition figures. They include the elected mayor of Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, a former Harvard scholar and a former U.N. envoy. They've been condemned to the same fate, life in prison, as ousted military strongman Mengistu Hailee Mariam, who is held responsible for the murder of 150,000 academics and university students in two decades in power.(More...)

Today's Top HEADLINES

-[AUDIO] CSIS Analyst Stephen Morrison on developments concerning CUD leaders
-US Seeks Clemency for Ethiopian Opposition Leaders
-Congress,Bush exasperated by Ethiopia's backsliding democracy
-Congresswoman Drakes' statement on Sentencing of Dr. Yacob
-UN opens new Somali refugee camp in Ethiopia
-Deadly Mogadishu blasts overshadow peace talks

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

-MANDELA TURNS 89, LAUNCHES 'A ROBUST FORCE FOR GOOD'
-Water find 'MAY END Darfur war'
-US: Top al-Qaida in Iraq figure captured
-Almost 200 Feared Dead in Plane Crash in Brazil
-Berezovsky tells of 'hitman plot'
-Quake forces Toyota to halt production
-Dave Chappelle OK after brief hospitalization
-Football match for Mandela's 89th birthday

Picture of the day

(TIME Magazine Cover: Soviet physicist and legendary human rights activist Andrei Sakharov - May 14, 1990)
"Andrei Sakharov, by courageously speaking truth to power, he became the conscience of the cold war and inspired the movement that toppled Soviet communism" - Time

Professor Mesfin Wolde Mariam, founder of the Ethiopian human rights council, was nominated for the “Sakharov” prize in 2006. The European Union, who gives out this award annually, nominates individuals for their efforts in promoting human rights and courageously resisting oppression. There are many striking similarities between Andrei Sakharov and Mesfin wolde Maiam; for instance, both started out academics in a scientific field but later turned activist due to the oppressive political climate they found themselves in.

Find out what other similarities there are between these two renowned human rights advocates;

-Biography of Andrei Sakharov (Time)
-Mesfin Wolde-Mariam, the Conscience of a Nation (Biography)

P.S – Professor Mesfin Wolde-Mariam is currently jailed by the dictatorial regime in Ethiopia; human rights organizations from all over the world are appealing for his release. To see what you can do to help, click here.


.


_____________________________________

PBRC 1st official Ride Comics

Comics courtesy of Sir Black. Thank you for the comics, we really enjoyed the captions.