By : Lloyd Mahachi

Dawit Isaak, a brave journalist from Eritrea, has been unjustly imprisoned for 23 long years without facing trial. His courageous fight for freedom of expression has earned him the prestigious Edelstam Prize. Dawit co-founded Eritrea’s first independent newspaper, Setit, which boldly called for democratic reforms and challenged the government.

In 2001, Dawit was suddenly arrested along with other senior government officials, members of parliament, and independent journalists. The Eritrean government’s crackdown on dissent led to their imprisonment. Since then, the government has refused to share information about Dawit’s location, health, or well-being.

The Edelstam Foundation, a Swedish human rights organization, has been advocating for Dawit’s release and pushing for human rights changes in Eritrea. They consider Dawit’s imprisonment an enforced disappearance. Caroline Edelstam, chair of the Edelstam Prize jury, expressed deep concern about Dawit’s health and the lack of access to his family, consular assistance, and legal counsel.

Dawit’s daughter, Bethlehem Isaak, will accept the prize on his behalf at the award ceremony in Stockholm. This recognition highlights Dawit’s unwavering commitment to freedom of expression and democracy.

Eritrea, a country in East Africa, has a disturbing human rights record. It’s the only African nation without privately owned media outlets. The government shut down the private press in 2001, citing national security concerns. President Isaias Afwerki has held power for nearly 31 years, and there haven’t been any elections since Eritrea gained independence.

The international community is urged to pressure Eritrea for Dawit’s release and advocate for human rights reforms. Dawit’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting freedom of expression and ensuring justice for those who dare to speak truth to power.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi