Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review Expresses Solidarity with Journalist and Author Nega Zerue
The Editorial Board of the Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review (HAGR) has issued a public statement expressing solidarity with independent journalist and author Nega Zerue, praising his work as an example of moral courage and independent journalism in a difficult political climate.
In the statement, the editorial board described Zerue as a respected public intellectual whose writings have addressed some of the most painful chapters of the recent conflict in northern Ethiopia. The board highlighted his book Axum Cried (ኣኹሰም ነቢዓ), which documents the violence that took place in the historic city of Axum during the early months of the war in Tigray.
According to the statement, the book presents detailed accounts of the mass killing of civilians reported to have occurred in Axum in November 2020. Human rights organizations and international investigators have previously documented the incident, which reportedly left more than one thousand civilians dead in a single day. Several international reports have suggested that the killings may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Axum holds deep historical and religious significance as one of the oldest cities in Africa and a center of ancient civilization. The violence that occurred there during the conflict turned the city into a symbol of the broader humanitarian tragedy that unfolded in northern Ethiopia.
The editorial board said Zerue’s work examines the political and ideological factors that shaped the conflict, including the involvement of Eritrean forces and the role of the Eritrean government led by Isaias Afwerki. His writings, the statement noted, raise questions about accountability, justice, and the protection of civilians in the Horn of Africa.
The board also said Zerue has faced intimidation and pressure because of his reporting and analysis. Despite these challenges, it said he has continued his work in independent journalism.
Currently based in Addis Ababa, Zerue has launched a new media initiative under the Hara Media Group. The project includes the revival of his well known program “ትሕቲ ሰማይ ትግራይ” (Under the Sky of Tigray), which focuses on political discussion, intellectual debate, and public affairs related to Tigray and the wider Horn of Africa.
In its statement, the editorial board stressed that independent journalism remains essential for societies recovering from conflict. It argued that democratic development depends on the protection of freedom of speech, the presence of independent media institutions, and the willingness of citizens to question political power.
The board called on members of the global Tigrayan diaspora, civic organizations, intellectual communities, and supporters of independent journalism to support Zerue’s new platform. Suggested forms of support include following his programs, sharing his work on digital platforms, participating in public discussions, and providing institutional or financial backing for independent media initiatives.
According to the statement, the future of democratic culture in Tigray and across the Horn of Africa will depend in part on whether independent voices such as Zerue’s are protected and allowed to operate freely.
The editorial board concluded by stating that journalists who continue to pursue truth and accountability in difficult circumstances play a critical role in strengthening democratic culture and public dialogue in the region.
Editorial Board
Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review (HAGR)
Independent Regional & International Geostrategy | Security | Political & Legal Analysis
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