September 23, 2009

The March for Freedom Announce Protest by Ethiopian Freedom and Justice Seekers

On September 24-25, 2009, Ethiopians join many other protestors in Pittsburgh to raise their voices in condemnation of the presence of the dictatorial ruler of Ethiopia at the G-20 summit.  Ethiopians want the world to know that they have had enough of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and other human rights violations, all being perpetrated by their own rulers. The toll of living under unending tyranny, oppression and humanitarian crises is now reaching a critical tipping point in Ethiopia that experts fear could lead to a violent explosion. In response, this regime is tightening its grip, hoping to hold at bay the rising dissent and discontent, but even with the increasing repression, there is evidence that the pressure may be becoming too strong to control.

Recently, the International Crisis Group reported what Ethiopians have been saying for a long time—if the international community continues to ignore the level of ethnic tensions and anger towards this regime, we may see the simmering tensions explode into violence that may destabilize the entire region of the Horn of Africa. It is well known that it is the US and  donor aid from rich countries that is propping up this government which, in turn, is terrorizing its own citizens. Even as these ominous reports have come out, new money has poured into this regime, further emboldening the corrupt rulers. 

Ethiopians want to know why?

They are frustrated about the foreign policies of free countries, like the US, Canada, Japan, the UK, Germany, the EU and others that support dictators who suppress democracy in third world countries like Ethiopia. In fact, such policies can at times even endanger our own future security by radicalizing some against Western donors who feel that they are not given the chance to contribute to democratic change in Ethiopia through nonviolent methods. Critical action is needed, including more accurate and comprehensive media coverage of the issues affecting Ethiopians and others in the Horn of Africa.

As the press diligently covers the abuses of democracy and human rights of Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe or Omar al-Bashir of the Sudan, why is Ethiopia’s dictator and human rights abuser given a free pass?

The Meles regime is committing horrific atrocities in the Ogaden region of southeastern Ethiopia and into Somalia, but he is getting away with it as a “partner” on the War on Terror, even though he is committing acts of terror against innocent civilians, as are the likes of al Qaeda, in these places.Ethiopians believe that for a healthier and more prosperous Ethiopia to emerge, Ethiopians demand leaders who care about the people, for “no one will be free until all are free.” The struggle for freedom, justice, the rule of law and the respect of the human and civil rights of all Ethiopians is the primary work of Ethiopians, but they ask those in free countries to refrain from creating obstacles to them by aligning with dictators.

For more information on the March for Freedom, please see the website at: www.march4freedom.org .

For questions or an interview with March for Freedom, please contact us at joinus@march4freedom.org or visit the website at: www.march4freedom.org.