Ethiopia: Hush! No Critic Needed

opinion

The definition of the crime does not allow truth as a defense to charges of criminal defamation. In this, it resembles the old common law of seditious libel which prosecuted true statements against the King, the government and its magistrates, argues Raji Gezahegn.

This piece is for those brave (or naive) enough to embark on harsh criticism of our government and believe that the law would protect them. After all the constitution does provide for the right of free expression, doesn't it? Oh, how wonderful it would have been if that was true! Let's take a pause and try to let the serenity of a nation of free men with a government and laws unequivocally dedicated to preserving the right of every man "to learn, utter and argue in accordance with his conscious" permeate our thoughts... Okay, now back to reality. For those living in this bubble, here are a few insights in to the law that you think is in your side. Don't worry, you can thank me later.

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