ethiopiafirst.info

(By: Alem)

Hello Ben,

I am sorry you had to go through this. When I heard your story, it reminded me of my experience in Ethiopia. I am so glad you defended yourself and kept your pride.

For me, my experience hunts me every time I think about going to Ethiopia. I lost my pride and dignity by Federal Police who swore to serve and protect the public. My sister and I were beaten and put in jail for not opening our hotel room at 1am. They made us walk with no shoes, they called us names, pushed us with their machineguns, ridiculed us like there was no tomorrow.

Finally, they threw us in a very filthy room with no blanket or mat. All these troubles are for not opening our room which we paid for to get a good night sleep. Opening and entering to our room without our permission was a crime by itself, but they had to also punish us in inhumanely way for not opening the door voluntarily.

I cried because I was re-living Derg's time and I couldn't believe my brother's blood was in vain. It was very scared and hopeless for me and for my sister. As far as the people who committed the crime, I was told latter that they were disciplined, but it doesn't change the fact there are people who are out there, not one or two, but many people who look and act like Derg.

This incident took place in Shire, Endaslassie.

Thank you for being my voice!!! Keep up the good work.
May God protect you in every step of your way!

Alem from the USA.