Taye Dendea, the former State Minister of Peace, was reportedly abducted by masked individuals from the entrance of Kilinto Prison and taken to the Federal Police Crime Investigation Bureau, following a court ruling that granted him bail. This information was conveyed by his wife, Sintayehu Alemayehu, during an interview with Addis Standard.
Sintayehu recounted their experience, stating, “We learned that he had been taken there, so we visited this morning. We were able to see him before we left, but we remain uncertain about what will transpire next.” Her comments reflect the anxiety and confusion surrounding Taye’s current situation after his unexpected transfer.
The incident raises significant concerns regarding the treatment of individuals who have been granted bail and the broader implications for the rule of law. As the family awaits further developments, the circumstances of Taye Dendea’s detention continue to attract attention and scrutiny from various observers.
On December 2, 2024, the Federal Supreme Court Cassation Bench issued a ruling for Taye’s release on bail. However, Sintayehu reported that as he was exiting Kilinto Prison, he was intercepted by “masked individuals.” She stated, “It cannot really be said that he was released. We did not see him. They took him away immediately,” highlighting the abruptness of the situation.
Sintayehu recounted that the incident transpired around 5:00 PM on Wednesday, December 4, the designated time for Taye’s release. She mentioned that the individuals who apprehended him claimed he was “wanted” and presented a letter purportedly from a higher authority, although the contents of the letter remained unreadable to her and others present.
Additionally, she observed that security personnel, which included “individuals in civilian clothes, masks, and federal police uniforms,” were stationed near Kilinto Prison from as early as 11:00 AM, accompanied by “two patrol vehicles.” This presence raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding Taye’s release and subsequent apprehension.
Sintayehu highlighted that although the court had approved bail, Taye remained in custody for an additional two days due to an administrative delay stemming from a clerical mistake in the court’s order. She remarked, “It appears that the prison officials at Kilinto were anticipating this situation. They seemed to be prolonging the process over trivial administrative matters.”
Taye has been incarcerated since December 2023, facing accusations under Articles 251/C and 257/G of the 2004 Criminal Code. The charges against him include the dissemination of “propaganda messages in support of anti-peace forces” and posting supportive messages on his social media account while he was serving as the State Minister of Peace.
The circumstances surrounding Taye’s detention raise concerns about the efficiency and accuracy of the judicial process. The unnecessary extension of his imprisonment due to clerical errors not only highlights potential flaws within the system but also underscores the broader implications for individuals facing similar legal challenges.
Prosecutors further alleged that Taye breached the Firearms Act by having “unauthorized weapons,” which were reportedly discovered at his previous home located in Lideta Sub-city, Woreda 6, during a search operation.
On August 6, 2024, the Federal High Court Lideta Branch exonerated him from the initial two charges, determining that his social media activity and media interviews fell within his constitutional rights to express his views. Nevertheless, the court identified adequate evidence to advance the charge concerning illegal possession of firearms, instructing Taye to formulate a defense.
As a result, Taye is now required to prepare for the upcoming legal proceedings related to the firearm possession charge, while the earlier accusations have been dismissed. This development underscores the court’s recognition of the importance of free expression, even as it maintains a firm stance on the legality of firearm ownership.
AS
The latest I heard is this man was released from prison again and is back to his loving family. Now, leave this family man alone!
Federal Bureau of investigation??? Is there such a law enforcement institution in Ethiopia?