Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – April 30, 2025 — Ethiopia’s judiciary is facing a major credibility crisis as federal judges have once again ordered the Federal Police — for the fourth time — to bring activist and blogger Seyoum Teshome to court, amid accusations of defiance and political interference.
Seyoum stands accused of spreading misinformation and misleading the public about the politically sensitive cases of Christian Tadele and Yohannes Buayalew, two prominent opposition figures and former members of the House of Peoples’ Representatives. Both are in detention after voicing opposition to the government’s military actions in the Amhara region and condemning the killing of civilians.
Despite repeated court orders, the Federal Police continue to claim that Seyoum cannot be located. However, multiple reliable sources allege that the police are in fact shielding him, raising serious concerns about unequal application of the law and institutional protection of political allies.
Frustrated by the lack of cooperation, the presiding judges declared that the ongoing defiance threatens the integrity of the entire justice system. The panel warned that if the police continue to disregard court orders, they are prepared to resign in protest.
“This blatant disregard for the rule of law cannot continue. The judiciary cannot function when its authority is ignored by law enforcement,” one judge said during the tense court session.
The court has now issued its fourth formal order for Seyoum Teshome to be presented at the next hearing. Observers say the outcome could define the future of judicial independence in Ethiopia.
Legal experts, civil society organizations, and political analysts are sounding the alarm over what they call a systematic breakdown of constitutional checks and balances. The continued detention of opposition figures and the shielding of pro-government voices have deepened public distrust and raised fears about the erosion of democratic norms.
Ambassador Media will continue to report on this developing story as it unfolds.
