Addis Standard Managing Editor Taken From Newsroom, Whereabouts Remain Unclear

Mintesinot Nigussie

The managing editor of Addis Standard, Million Beyene, was taken from the publication’s newsroom in Addis Ababa by unidentified individuals, with his whereabouts still unconfirmed. Jakenn Publishing PLC, the publisher of Addis Standard, said men in plainclothes entered the newsroom on Wednesday morning and removed him, telling staff he was “needed for questioning.”

The individuals reportedly left with him in a vehicle, and he has not been located since. The incident comes against a backdrop of regulatory tension involving the outlet. About two months earlier, the Ethiopian Media Authority announced it had revoked the licence of Addis Standard’s online platform, citing repeated publication of reports it said posed risks to national interest.

According to accounts shared with local media, the managing editor was taken by four individuals, three of whom were wearing civilian clothing, masks and hats. Security camera footage reportedly captured the individuals, and the images were presented to both Addis Ababa Police civil investigation units and federal police. Both sides are said to have denied involvement.

Multiple police stations in Addis Ababa have also reportedly told the publication they have no record of his detention. Authorities have not yet issued a comprehensive public account of the incident or confirmed whether he is being held by any official security structure.

The case has drawn attention from press freedom groups, who have expressed concern over the safety of journalists and the potential impact on media operations in Ethiopia.

Overall, the disappearance of Addis Standard’s managing editor from the newsroom highlights ongoing challenges to media freedom and journalist safety in the country.