Politics

Reporter Newspaper Leadership Seeks Talks After Sudden Suspension

BBC · 2 hours ago · Read the Full Story on BBC
Reporter Newspaper Leadership Seeks Talks After Sudden Suspension
AI SUMMARY

Following the full suspension of Reporter newspaper and its digital outlets by the Ethiopian Media Authority, Editor-in-Chief Tamiru Tsige has denied allegations of violating national interest and requested discussions to resume publications.

  • The Ethiopian Media Authority fully suspended the Amharic and English print and digital editions of Reporter, published by Media and Communication Center PLC.
  • The Authority stated it conducted over a year of content monitoring before issuing the suspension due to "repeated violations of law and professional ethics".
  • Accusations against the media outlet include disseminating content contrary to national interest, tarnishing institutional reputations using unverified information, and covering topics with high negative societal impacts.
  • Editor-in-Chief Tamiru Tsige stated that the official suspension letter was received today, after previously circulating on social media.
  • Tamiru categorically denied the allegations, stating that the newspaper has operated for 31 years by safeguarding the national interest.
  • The Editor-in-Chief described the suspension decision as a surprise, noting that previous discussions with the Authority had not indicated such action.
  • The publication's leadership is currently seeking discussions with the Media Authority with the hope of resolving issues and resuming weekend print runs.