Isaias Afwerki’s regime has remained in power for over 33 years. In all those years, there have been no elections, no reliable electricity, no internet, and no significant infrastructure development.
The Eritrean regime’s long arm extends to the diaspora. Enough is enough! Close the embassies and stop the intimidation.
The Eritrean regime doesn’t stop at its borders. Through embassies abroad, it continues to reach into the lives of Eritreans living in exile, using tactics of intimidation, harassment, and surveillance. This transnational repression is unacceptable. Closing these embassies will send a clear message that oppression has no place on foreign soil. It’s time for the international community to stand up for justice and human rights, protecting Eritreans from the dictator’s threats. @MinBZ@UNHumanRights
#TransnationalRepression #BlueRevolution #NoMorePFDJterror
Today marks 11 years since the tragic Lampedusa shipwreck, where 368 lives were lost, many fleeing hardship in search of safety. Let’s remember: it’s about protecting people, not borders. We must prioritize compassion, save lives, and uphold human dignity. #Lampedusa#Refugees
Sad News: @VOATigrigna is reporting that Berhane Abrehe, #Eritrea|s former Minister of Finance who was arrested shortly after he wrote a highly critical book of President Isaias Afwerki’s leadership, has died in prison.
https://t.co/7p6QvfBNur
He was never charged with a crime, nor brought to a court of law.
“death by prison” is one of the most common execution tools of the Eritrean regime.
Minister Berhane Abrehe made his stand at home, not by circumstance, but by choice. Not once, but many times. Today we hear the sad news of his passing while in illegal detention. He lived and died with dignity, embodying the spirit of a true tegadalai. A man who knew what it means to be honest with himself and the world, he set a new standard for standing by one's word. His journey from a young activist to independence fighter to high-ranking government official, and ultimately to a vocal critic of the regime, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people.
Born in 1945 in Quandeba, Eritrea, his dedication to his country began in the early 1960s when he was a student. While studying for his master's degree in engineering at the University of Illinois, he played a crucial role in setting up Eritreans for Liberation in North America, a student association which helped to connect young students with the armed struggle for independence. In 1975, he joined the EPLF, quickly becoming a key member of its leadership. After Eritrea regained its independence, he worked as the Minister of Land and Water in the 1990s and as the Minister of Finance from 2001 until 2012. In 2011, he proposed wide ranging government reforms within the Ministry of Finance and other government ministries leading to his removal from his position in 2012.
While abroad for medical treatment, he wrote a critical two-volume book, "Hagerey Eritrea" (My Country Eritrea), challenging the status quo and calling for peaceful reform. Instead of remaining in exile and publishing the book, he chose to return home. As an advocate for peaceful reform, he sent a recorded message to Eritrean media in exile inviting the president to an open debate. Following the publication of the book, he was arrested in September 2018. This was the price he was willing to pay for his principles. Even when they arrested him, he was in control of the decision to be in a position to be jailed. He protested while making a stand in words and in action.
Tegadalai Berhane Abrehe's life exemplifies the courage to stand for one's principles no matter the circumstances, even in the face of dire consequences, including prison, torture, and death. With his bold stance, he reminds us what it means to fight for a people you love. His legacy is an inspiration to those who believe in the importance of integrity and the relentless pursuit of justice for one's people. May his unwavering fighting spirit continue to inspire us all. Rest in peace, tegadalai.