'Freedom of the press' in Ethiopia
Source: RADIO NETHERLANDS
Nine Ethiopian journalists and bloggers, who had been arrested in April, have been charged with terrorism for having links with the US-based Ginbot 7 opposition movement, and for planning attacks. Ginbot 7 is considered a terrorist organisation in Ethiopia.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn denies he is undermining the freedom of the press. "Anyone who is seen and acting within this terrorist network will be eligible for the course of law," he told reporters. "When you put yourself into this network and you try to become a blogger, don't think that you are going to escape from the Ethiopian government.”
Who is Gado?
Gado, full name Godfrey Mwampembwa, is one of Africa's most influential cartoonists. He draws a daily cartoon for Kenyan newspaper The Nation, and his work has appeared in various other publications, such as Le Monde, the Washington Times and the Japan Times.
Gado is also the man behind XYZ, a Kenyan satirical TV show commenting on current affairs and politics in the form of puppets. He was named Kenyan cartoonist of the year in 1999, and received the Dutch Prins Claus Award in 2007.
"I draw because I want to say something. My drawings are my tools," says the Tanzanian-born cartoonist.
You can check out our whole Cartoon of the week series here.
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