ADDIS ABABA- During his visit to Khartoum to mediate Sudanese rivals on Friday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has played a massive role for the release of 78 Ethiopian prisoners who were sentenced up to 20 years in Sudan. He managed to do so after discussing with the transitional government leaders.
Press Secretary for the Office of the Prime Minister, Billene Seyoum said that in line with his Sudan visit to mediate rivals of Sudanese Politicians, Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed had discussed with the transitional government leaders.
Billene added that, based on the discussion, 78 Ethiopians found in the capital, Khartoum prison, sentenced up to 20 years, were released on Firiday and a consensus is reached to release other prisoners residing out of the capital the coming weeks.
According to her, Dr. Abiy holds discussions with the transitional military government leaders, oppositions and all concerned Sudanese politicians on peaceful political transition and the establishment of civil government in Sudan.
The released Ethiopians have arrived at home with Dr. Abiy in one plane she said. “We are born again and we are happy to return safely back to our country,” the released Ethiopians said.
Among the released prisoners, Goytom Shumye told The Ethiopian Herald that he was sentenced for two years and detained in jail for seven months.
“It is painful to be jailed abroad. I am lucky to get this chance and I thanks Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed who gave me the chance to be reborn ”, he said.
Asmamaw Fisseha, who was sentenced for 20 years said that he went to Sudan to butter his bread but he was jailed in Khartoum.
“The time I spent in prison was gruesome and I did not expect to be released this way. I think salivation arrived from unexpected corner and I owe Dr. Abiy Ahmed a lot. He afforded me this happiness. This act of his testifies how he cares for every citizen. God bless him!”, Asmamaw added.
The Ethiopian Herald Sunday June 9, 2019
BY DARGIE KAHSAY
