In today’s volatile political climate, the intersection of professional careers and journalistic activism is fraught with danger, particularly in regions where press freedoms and human rights are under threat. One such case is that of Dr. Yonas Workineh, a medical doctor and journalist from Ethiopia who was compelled to flee his homeland due to political persecution and grave human rights violations.
Education and Medical Career
Dr. Yonas Workineh began his journey into medicine at Hawassa University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. After years of rigorous study, he graduated in April 2021 with a degree in medicine. Like many of his peers, he was dedicated to improving the healthcare system in Ethiopia and began his medical practice as a general practitioner at Kebridehar General Hospital. His service in Kebridehar, a region that often faces challenges in access to medical care, highlighted his commitment to public service. However, Dr. Yonas Workineh was not only known for his medical practice, but also for his activism and journalistic work.
A Voice for Justice: Journalism and Advocacy
In addition to his clinical duties, Dr. Yonas Workineh, became involved in journalism, acting as a ghostwriter and reporter for East Africa Daily News. His work, often focused on political and social issues, shed light on governmental corruption, human rights abuses, and the suppression of freedoms in Ethiopia. This dual role of doctor and journalist allowed him to serve not only the physical needs of his community but also the moral need for truth and justice. Unfortunately, this latter role would come to pose a significant risk to his life.
Arrest and Torture
In February 2024, Dr. Yonas Workineh was arrested by Ethiopian authorities due to his involvement in journalistic activities critical of the government. His reporting, which unveiled the mistreatment of citizens and the curbing of press freedoms, made him a target of the state. What followed was three months of unjust imprisonment, during which he was subjected to inhumane treatment. He was repeatedly tortured, both physically and mentally, in an attempt to break his spirit and silence his voice. Furthermore, he was denied medical care despite his deteriorating health, a cruel irony given his own profession as a healer.
Release on Bail and Ongoing Persecution
After three months in prison, Dr. Yonas was granted bail. However, his release did not mark the end of his ordeal. Even after regaining his physical freedom, the Ethiopian government continued to intimidate and harass him. He lived under constant threat, knowing that at any moment, he could be re-arrested, tortured, or even worse. The government’s relentless pursuit of him, along with the psychological trauma of his imprisonment, made it impossible for him to continue his life in Ethiopia.
Fleeing to Kampala and Seeking Asylum
Fearing for his life and with no safe options left in his homeland, Dr. Yonas made the difficult decision to flee Ethiopia. He arrived in Kampala, Uganda, where he is currently seeking asylum. His flight marks the beginning of another chapter in his life—one defined by uncertainty but also hope for safety and the opportunity to continue his work as both a doctor and a journalist in a place where his voice will not be silenced by oppression.
Conclusion
Dr. Yonas’s story is a testament to the dangerous realities faced by those who stand up for truth and justice in authoritarian regimes. His experience of arrest, torture, and harassment highlights the severe human rights abuses occurring in Ethiopia, particularly against those who challenge the government’s narrative. Now seeking asylum, Dr. Yonas Workineh hopes for a future where he can practice medicine and continue his journalistic work without fear of persecution. His case is a stark reminder of the necessity for international organizations and governments to advocate for press freedoms, human rights, and the protection of those who speak out against injustice.
As his story continues to unfold, Dr. Yonas Workineh is one of many whose courage in the face of oppression serves as both a warning and an inspiration
This is the sad reality happening in Ethiopia.
Doctors ratio to the population is 1–32000. We are losing many professionals because of Abiy Ahmed’s regime.