In a police state ruled by a tyrannical oppressor, prison is always a very important, key institution to the regime. Being a prisoner there means a life in hell. As a former inmate, I know how the ruling Tigre gang treats political prisoners and journalists.
Firstly, all those martinet wardens are either members the ruling tribe or loyal serfs, therefore PM Meles Zenawi has complete mastery over them. These bunches of insufferable brats called wardens are always extremely hostile towards political prisoners. They scrutinize almost everything. In their eyes, all political prisoners are obstreperous subeverters who must be punished all the time. It is very difficult to put up with their insolence.
Last Wednesday’s severe assault on UDJ deputy president Andualem Arage inside Kaliti central state prison was part of their shock-and-awe strategy to crash the spirit of this spirited young freedom fighter.
His attacker, a fellow inmate, also confiscated all documents from Andualem and handed it over to the wardens. According to reports, the attack was by no means instantaneous. That is what makes Zenawi’s prison the most odious place to be at. That is the peculiarity of a prison no better than a concentration camp.
I remember several years ago while serving time for violating Zenawi’s draconian press law, how the insular wardens used to maltreat even elderly prisoners such as the late Prof. Asrat woldeyes, Abera Yemaneab, Tefera Asmare and Andarge Mesfin.I still fondly recall how Terefe Mengesha, editor of Roha newspaper displayed great gallantry in fighting for justice.
Dear Andualem, my message to you is that your sacrifice is inspiring millions to rise up for change. Be steadfast.
You are already a hero, a living martyr!
