Addis Standard Journalist Released After Two Weeks in Secret Detention

Mintesinot Niggusie

Addis Standard Managing Editor Million Beyene has been released after being held for two weeks in what the publication describes as undisclosed and informal detention sites following his removal by security forces from the newsroom in Addis Ababa.

Jakenn Publishing PLC, which publishes Addis Standard, said Beyene was taken on April 15, 2026, by unidentified men in plainclothes and moved to an unknown location. The circumstances of his detention, including the legal basis and the authority responsible, have not been publicly clarified.

According to the publisher and media freedom organisations, he was held without charge in locations in Addis Ababa and outside the capital, with no disclosed access to family or legal counsel during the period of detention.

Addis Standard said Beyene was released on Tuesday afternoon and returned home in the presence of his family, legal team and colleagues. The outlet did not provide details on his condition, citing security considerations.

Jakenn Publishing strongly condemned what it called the enforced disappearance of its managing editor and the treatment he experienced in custody, calling for accountability and legal safeguards for journalists.

The publisher said the incident highlights the need to protect media professionals from intimidation, unlawful detention and coercive practices, adding that a free and independent press remains essential for public access to information and the rule of law.