(BBC) Ethiopian actor flees Ethiopia - says persecuted for being Amhara

From: Biniam Tekle <biniamt_at_dehai.org_at_dehai.org>
Date: Mon, 26 Sep 2016 11:15:33 -0400

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-37472085
Soap actor Znah-Bzu Tsegaye flees Ethiopia

3 hours ago
>From the section Africa


http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-37472085

Image copyright Sew Le Sew Image caption The actor is the latest
high-profile Ethiopian to flee the country

Prominent Ethiopian actor Znah-Bzu Tsegaye has sought asylum in the US
after leaving the country about two months ago, he told Voice of
America.

The actor was in a weekly soap opera Sew Le Sew on state television.

He left because of "repeated harassment and for being Amhara" reports
the opposition Zehabesha website.

Human Rights Watch says security forces killed at least 100 people at
protests in the Amhara region in August but the government denies
this.

Africa Live: BBC news updates
What is behind Ethiopia's wave of protests?
The Oromo protests and Ethiopian unity

In an interview with Voice of America's Amharic service, the actor
said the Ethiopian security forces had carried out "atrocious actions"
and he had decided not to return home until the "regime is changed".

"It is sad to respond with bullets to people's demand for their
rights," he added.

At the root of the recent demonstrations in Amhara is a request by
representatives from the Welkait Amhara Identity Committee that their
land, which is currently administered by the Tigray regional state, be
moved into the neighbouring Amhara region.

The Oromo people in Ethiopia have also been protesting against the
government, saying they have been excluded politically and
economically.

During the Rio Olympics, marathon runner Feyisa Lilesa crossed the
line in second place with his arms above his head in solidarity with
Oromo activists.

He said he wanted to seek asylum after the high-profile
anti-government protest, and he is now in the US.
Received on Mon Sep 26 2016 - 09:55:17 EDT

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