Imprisoned Canadian says he was tortured in Ethiopia
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Imprisoned Canadian says he was tortured in Ethiopia
Imprisoned Canadian Says He Was Tortured in Ethiopia
March 26, 2026
Esubalew Birhanie Alleges Abuse, Denies Militia Links
By Zehabesha News Desk
March 26, 2026
Addis Ababa / Johannesburg — A Canadian citizen detained in Ethiopia, Esubalew Birhanie, has alleged that he was subjected to torture and mistreatment while in custody, according to reporting by Geoffrey York of The Globe and Mail.
The case is drawing renewed attention to Ethiopia’s detention practices and raising concerns about human rights and due process.
Arrest Linked to Alleged Militia Connections
Mr. Birhanie has been imprisoned on allegations that he has links to a militia group banned by the Ethiopian government. Authorities have not publicly provided detailed evidence supporting the accusation.
However, Birhanie denies the claims, stating that he is being targeted for comments he made during a meeting in Toronto approximately six years ago. According to his account, his detention is politically motivated rather than based on credible security evidence.
Allegations of Torture and Mistreatment
Birhanie says he endured severe abuse during his detention. His allegations include:
- Repeated beatings during interrogation
- Prolonged restraint and harsh treatment
- Solitary confinement
- Denial of adequate food and medical care
- Psychological pressure aimed at forcing confessions
Such claims echo previous reports by detainees in Ethiopia who have alleged coercive interrogation practices.
Harsh Detention Conditions
The report also points to difficult prison conditions, including overcrowding and limited access to legal representation. Communication with family members and consular officials was reportedly restricted.
Observers say these conditions have long been criticized by international human rights organizations monitoring detention systems in Ethiopia.
Ethiopian Government Yet to Respond
Ethiopian authorities have not publicly addressed the specific allegations made by Birhanie. In past cases, officials have denied accusations of torture, stating that detentions are conducted within the framework of national law and security needs.
The government has also previously characterized similar claims as politically motivated or exaggerated.
Canada Expected to Engage
The case is likely to prompt diplomatic action from Canada, including efforts to secure consular access and ensure that Birhanie receives fair legal treatment.
The situation could become a sensitive issue in relations between Canada and Ethiopia if concerns over human rights and due process are not addressed.
Not an Isolated Case
The case recalls previous incidents involving Canadians detained in Ethiopia. Bashir Makhtal, who was imprisoned for more than a decade before his release in 2018, also alleged mistreatment during his detention.
Other cases globally, including that of Ahmad El-Maati, have later been recognized as involving torture after wrongful detention.
Legal and Human Rights Concerns
If verified, the allegations could constitute violations of international law, including the United Nations Convention Against Torture, which strictly prohibits torture under all circumstances.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly raised concerns about arbitrary detention, abuse in custody, and lack of due process in Ethiopia, particularly during periods of heightened security operations.
Broader Implications
The case comes amid ongoing political and security tensions in Ethiopia and could draw increased international scrutiny.
Analysts say it may test Ethiopia’s commitment to legal transparency and human rights, while also influencing diplomatic relations with Western governments.
Conclusion
The allegations by Esubalew Birhanie add urgency to ongoing concerns about detention practices in Ethiopia. As more details emerge, the case is expected to attract close attention from governments, legal experts, and human rights organizations.
The response from Ethiopian authorities and the Canadian government will likely determine whether the case leads to accountability or heightened diplomatic tension.