Ethiopian police released Reuters journalist Kumerra Gemechu on Tuesday after detaining him without charge for 12 days.
A Reuters story states, “Police had told his lawyer Melkamu Ogo that their lines of inquiry included accusations of disseminating false information, communicating with groups fighting the government, and disturbing the public’s peace and security. However, Ogo said he had seen no evidence.
“‘We are delighted that Kumerra has been released and reunited with his family. His release today affirms he has done nothing wrong,’ Reuters Editor-in-Chief Stephen J. Adler said in a statement.
“‘Kumerra is a journalist who has consistently demonstrated his professionalism and commitment to accuracy, as part of a Reuters team that reports from Ethiopia in a fair, independent and unbiased way. Journalists like Kumerra must be allowed to report the news in the public interest without fear of harassment or harm, wherever they are.'”
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