Mekelle/Tel Aviv/Nairobi/Pretoria/London
Ethiopian Media Authority Announces Return of Wazema Media License
The Ethiopian Media Authority announced on Saturday that Wazema Media, also known as Wazema Radio, has returned its operational media license in Ethiopia following allegations of ethical violations.
In a statement, the Authority said the outlet returned its recognition and license after it was deemed unwilling to operate in accordance with the Ethiopian Constitution, the Media Proclamation, and established professional ethics and guidelines.
According to the regulator, Wazema Media held an online media license. The decision followed what the Authority described as continuous monitoring, as well as tips and feedback received from the public regarding the outlet’s reporting practices.
The Authority alleged that Wazema Media’s coverage was contrary to national interests, lacked balance, and failed to include responses from federal and regional government institutions. It further claimed that some reports were inciting unrest and reflected one sided narratives that violated professional ethical standards.
The statement noted that the Ethiopian Media Authority had provided repeated corrective feedback to the media organization over an extended period. However, it said the outlet refused to accept the feedback and proposed corrective measures, leading to the decision to return the license.
As a result, the Authority said it has terminated the support previously provided to Wazema Media, citing repeated violations of the Media Proclamation and guidelines, as well as concerns that the reporting posed risks to national interests.
The Authority also recalled that Wazema Media had received a final warning two months ago under Proclamation No. 1238/2013 for what it described as various professional violations.
At the time of publication, Wazema Media had not issued a public response to the announcement.
———-
Editor’s Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in articles published by Horn News Hub are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position or editorial stance of Horn News Hub. Publication does not imply endorsement.
