Editor Abducted From Newsroom Deepens Alarm Over Ethiopia’s Press Crackdown

The disappearance of Ethiopian journalist Million Beyene, managing editor of Addis Standard, has intensified concerns about the safety of independent media in the country, following his seizure by unidentified men inside his newsroom in Addis Ababa. According to reports, the individuals, dressed in plain clothes and partially masked, entered the office and escorted Beyene away, claiming he was needed for questioning. His whereabouts remain unknown.

Colleagues and the publication’s parent company, Jakenn Publishing, have since attempted to locate him, contacting multiple police units across the capital. Authorities, including both city and federal police, have denied holding Beyene or having knowledge of his detention. Surveillance footage reviewed by the outlet suggests the operation was coordinated, showing several individuals moving systematically داخل the building before the abduction.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for urgent action, urging Ethiopian authorities to investigate the incident, establish responsibility, and ensure Beyene’s immediate release. Press freedom advocates view the case as part of a broader pattern of pressure targeting independent journalism in Ethiopia, particularly in the lead-up to national elections.

The incident comes amid escalating restrictions on media organizations. Addis Standard, known for its critical reporting, has faced repeated state actions in recent years, including a newsroom raid, temporary bans, and the revocation of its operating license earlier in 2026. Other international and local media outlets have also experienced accreditation withdrawals, suspensions, or reporting limitations, reinforcing concerns of a tightening media environment.

International coverage has highlighted fears that Beyene’s disappearance signals a worsening climate for journalists, where enforced disappearances and intimidation tactics risk becoming normalized. Media watchdogs warn that the lack of transparency surrounding his case, combined with official denials of custody, raises serious accountability concerns.

As calls for answers grow, the case underscores the fragile state of press freedom in Ethiopia. For many observers, Beyene’s abduction is not an isolated incident but part of a broader erosion of protections for journalists operating under increasing political and regulatory pressure.

Reference –

Ethiopian editor seized from Addis Standard newsroom by unidentified men

https://addisstandard.com/cpj-calls-for-release-of-addis-standard-editor-seized-by-unidentified-men/

https://www.france24.com/en/ethiopia-journalist-abduction-sparks-press-freedom-fears