Human Rights Commission to investigate prison conditions of detained individuals

A dispute has arisen between defense attorney Solomon Gezahegn and Kaliti Prison officials regarding the conditions of the detention area where Ato Yohannes Buayalew and journalist Dawit Begashaw are being held. While prison official Commander Tassew argues the facility is acceptable, the detainees claim it is cramped, lacks lighting, and prevents access to sunlight. Given the conflicting claims, the court has ordered the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission to investigate the conditions and report back by October 23, 2026. Separately, the court ruled that four defendants—journalist Abay Zewdu, Yohannes Buayalew, Desalegn Ejigu, and Dr. Zerihun Bahiru—must present a defense against the charges filed against them.