Ethiopia to release all political prisoners, close notorious camp

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — In a surprise move, Ethiopia’s leader on Wednesday announced plans to drop charges against political prisoners and close a notorious prison camp in what he called an effort to “widen the democratic space for all.” This is the first time the government has acknowledged holding political prisoners.

Prime Minster Hailemariam Desalegn’s comments came after antigovernment protests engulfed much of the restive Oromia and Amhara regions in recent months, bringing many businesses, universities and transport networks to a standstill.