Release of Oromo Political Leaders on Bail After Four Years of Imprisonment
OLF Press Release – September 5, 2024
We are pleased to share the news of the release on bail of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) leaders and officers who have been incarcerated since 2020. Those released include Mrs. Abdi Raggasa (OLF Executive Committee Member), Michael Boran (OLF Executive Committee Member) , Kennasa Ayana (OLF Member of National Council), Lammii Beenya (OLF Senior Political Officer), Dr. Gada Oljirraa (OLF Senior Political Officer), Gada Gabisa (,OLF Senior Political Officer) and Dawit Abdataa (OLF Senior Political Officer ). This development brings relief to their families, our organization, and the broader Oromo community inside and in the Diaspora. However, it is essential to acknowledge that these individuals were detained for exercising their legitimate political rights and their organizational duty in the OLF. They have been acquitted by court several times.
The OLF expresses its sincere gratitude to the Oromo people, our members, supporters, and all those involved in the Oromo Liberation Struggle for their steadfast solidarity during these challenging times. Your support has been instrumental in maintaining the morale of the leaders and their families throughout this period of unjust detention.
The OLF recognizes the contributions of the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) for their relentless efforts in demanding the the release of these leaders. We also extend our deep appreciation to the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), the international diplomatic community, and rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch for their persistent efforts in advocating for the rights of these individuals. OLF would also like to thank the Council of Ethiopian Political Parties and individual political parties in supporting this cause.
While this release represents a positive step toward justice and reconciliation, we urge the authorities to take further action by releasing all remaining OLF members and supporters who are still imprisoned in Oromia. We also call for the immediate reopening of OLF offices across the country to ensure that our party can exercise its rights fully and freely in the political processes.
Victory to the masses!
Oromo Liberation Front
September 5, 2024
Finfinnee
