By Muluken Tekleyohanes for Ambassador Media | June 14, 2025
A shocking case emerged today exposing how a manager in Addis Ababa forcibly locks clients seeking services into his office and physically assaults them. Victims report coercion, threats, and beatings when they arrive to access essential government services.
One person who endured the abuse explained, “I went into his office expecting help, but ended up as a victim of violence.” This disturbing incident sheds light on a larger pattern of misconduct by government officials across the city.
A Culture of Impunity
This alarming case is part of a wider trend. In recent years, Addis Ababa residents have faced rampant corruption, bureaucratic delays, forced evictions, ethnic profiling, and even violence at the hands of those in power. Reports show journalists arrested and victims of crackdowns on dissent, while informal settlements are demolished without adequate notice or compensation .
Civil rights are deteriorating, and trust in government is eroding as public servants appear increasingly unaccountable.
Blame on the Ethiopian Government
Critics say the Federal and City governments are allowing these abuses by failing to hold perpetrators accountable. International watchdogs have criticized recent harsh treatment of journalists, human rights workers, and political figures .
Residents voice deep frustration:
Bribery and discrimination: Officials reportedly demand payments and favor certain ethnic groups, creating a divided society.
Systematic intimidation: Journalists, opposition members, and ordinary citizens face arrest and harassment, often under the pretext of national security .
Forced displacement: Redevelopment schemes, described as ‘modernisation’, displace thousands with inadequate compensation .
Calls for Reform
Community members and advocacy organizations are demanding:
- Immediate investigation and prosecution of the manager and any other abusive officials.
- Transparent mechanisms for reporting misconduct without fear of reprisal.
- Strong oversight and accountability at all levels of government.
- Genuine commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and regaining public trust.
To date, Ethiopian authorities have offered no comment on this specific assault. The silence only deepens fears that officials operate with impunity.
