The Meles regime bans the April 28 demonstration in Addis Abeba
April 24, 2002
The dictatorial regime of Meles Zenawi refused to give permission to hold a mass demonstration in Addis Abeba on April 28. In a written response to the Ethiopians’ Democratic Party (EDP), organizer of the April 28 demonstration, the regime explained that it cannot give permission since there is another event that’s scheduled to be held at Mesqel Square on the same day.
EDP doesn’t believe the regime’s explanation, and said that the Meles regime is suppressing the people’s right of free expression.
In a statement issued on April 24, EDP said: “What the trigger-happy EPRDF regime is eagerly searching for these days is a pretext for unleashing repressive measures against the opposition parties and the free press, in particular, and against the people, in general. EDP is determined that EPRDF shall not have that pretext.”
“The opposition parties, the free press and the people are keenly aware of the fascistic beast lurking within the EPRDF and will take the necessary precautions. At the same time, we shall intensify our peaceful and democratic struggle until such time when this repressive regime will be forced to submit to the determined will of the people,” EDP’s statement added.
According to the EDP, the planned April 28 demonstration has been postponed. “EDP will continue to work relentlessly to prepare conditions and to call, as soon as possible, another public rally whereat the Ethiopian people will be able to express their peaceful opposition to the Hague decision a decision that has failed to protect their legitimate and vital national interests,” the statement said.
For further information:
EDP Main Office
PO Box 101458
Addis Abeba, Ethiopia
Tel: 50 87 27
Fax: 50 87 30
HOME PUBLISHER MESSAGE BOARD EVENTS JOIN E-MAIL LIST SEND NEWS TIPS SUBMIT AN EVENT ETHIOPIAN CALENDAR