Tigray Medical Association Calls for Release of Adigrat Hospital Chief Executive Director
The Tigray Medical Association (TMA) has issued a statement expressing concern over the arrest of Dr. Yemane Gebremariam, Chief Executive Director of Adigrat Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and a pediatrician.
According to the association, Dr. Yemane was arrested while traveling to Addis Ababa to attend the MedEd Africa professional education event. TMA stated that it had not received information regarding the legal grounds for his detention and said that no official explanation had been communicated to the association, his colleagues, or his family.
The association described Dr. Yemane as a respected healthcare leader and medical educator who previously served on TMA’s Executive Board and currently serves as an advisory board member.
In its statement, TMA said the arrest could affect healthcare delivery and medical education in Tigray, noting that Adigrat Comprehensive Specialized Hospital provides services to a large population and serves as a training center for health professionals. The association also expressed concern that the incident could discourage healthcare professionals from participating in professional and educational activities.
The Tigray Medical Association called for the immediate release of Dr. Yemane Gebremariam, transparency regarding the reasons for his detention, adherence to due process, respect for the safety and neutrality of healthcare and academic leaders, and assurances that medical professionals can attend conferences and continuing education programs without facing arrest or harassment.
The association also appealed to relevant authorities, human rights organizations, medical associations, and health partners to support efforts aimed at securing Dr. Yemane’s release and protecting the rights of healthcare professionals to practice, teach, and travel.
