Teddy Afro is held in isolation, in dark room

Ethiopia’s popular singer Teddy Afro is held in isolation inside a dark room at Kaliti prison. Also, unlike other prisoners, he is not allowed to go outside of his cell for fresh air, according to close family members who have visited him over the weekend.

Several friends of Teddy were prevented from visiting him for the Ethiopian Easter holiday (Fasika) on Sunday. Only 5 family members were allowed to see him. The opposition UDJ vice-chaiperson Birtukan Mideksa was one of those who were turned away by prison guards yesterday.

The harsh treament Teddy is getting in prison gives credence to the suspecion that his arrest is politically motivated.

Ethiopians in the Washington DC area are holding a protest rally today in front of the Ethiopian embassy demanding the release of Teddy Afro.