May 21, 2025
Getahun Tsegaye
Staff Reporter
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Judges across the Tigray region in Ethiopia have entered the second day of a widespread strike, citing growing safety concerns as the main reason for halting their duties.
Judges from seven district courts and the Central Court in the city of Mekelle officially ceased operations on Monday. The work stoppage has continued since then.
“The safety of judges has been compromised,” the judges said in a collective statement. “Because of this, we are unable to carry out our duties.”
The Tigray Judges’ Association has previously indicated that numerous judges have been resigning due to mounting pressure and insecurity in recent months. Association President Dawit Haile Selassie told Deutsche Welle that “over 138 judges have stepped down so far” as a result of the ongoing challenges.
Of particular concern are judges handling cases related to sexual violence, who have reportedly faced intimidation and threats. The Association emphasized that these pressures have made it increasingly difficult for them to maintain judicial independence and personal security.
In a statement released Monday, the Tigray Interim Regional Administration acknowledged the crisis and said the current situation “cannot be sustained.” It pledged to take “urgent action” to address the threats faced by the judiciary.
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