Ethiopian authorities have revoked the license of the independent media outlet Addis Standard, citing national interests, amidst increasing pressure on journalism ahead of the upcoming elections.
Ethiopian authorities suspended the Addis Standard's license on February 24, 2026, claiming the independent online media outlet had harmed national interests. This decision comes as Ethiopia has faced criticism for its repeated infringements on press freedom. Yonas Kedir, the editor-in-chief of Addis Standard, stated that the suspension reflects the government's growing discomfort with independent journalism in the country.
As the country prepares for legislative elections scheduled for June 2026, pressure on journalists in Ethiopia has intensified. The revocation of licenses is not an isolated incident; recently, the accreditations of journalists from Reuters and Deutsche Welle were also withdrawn. The media authority's actions against Addis Standard mark a worrying trend for press freedom and indicate a broader strategy by the government to control the narrative in the lead-up to the elections.
The implications of this suspension are significant, as it showcases the Ethiopian government's ongoing struggle to balance its narrative with independent reporting. Furthermore, it raises concerns about the future of journalism in the country, where independent voices are increasingly silenced. This situation puts the international spotlight on Ethiopia and its commitment to democratic principles, particularly as the 2026 elections approach, and may draw responses from human rights organizations and international observers concerned about press freedoms.
