⚡️UPDATE - Regime forces have detained a significant number of elderly women, aged 60 to 80, in Maksegnit military camp to force Fano fighters to surrender in exchange for their release. 📍Central Gonder Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia ⭕ Since January 5th, a significant number of elderly women, aged 60 to 80, have been detained by regime forces at Maksegnit military camp. ⭕ The women were rounded up from multiple woredas, including East Belessa, West Belessa, Gonder-Zuriya, East Dembiya, and West Dembiya. ⭕️ Regime forces informed them that their detention was a consequence of their children, grandchildren, and family members being associated with the Fano movement. They were allegedly told that their release would only be secured upon the surrender of these relatives to the authorities. ⭕ Reports indicate that the detainees are suffering from severe health issues due to lack of medical care and inadequate food provisions, with some held for over a month in worsening conditions. ⭕️ Under international law, the arrest or detention of family members of armed fighters solely due to their relationship with the combatants is prohibited and may constitute a violation of human rights and international humanitarian law.

Great to meet 🇪🇹 PM @AbiyAhmedAli to discuss Ethiopia's impressive economic performance. I saw here in Addis Ababa the signs of a vibrant private sector-led market economy - and am delighted the IMF is a partner for the government’s homegrown reform agenda.