Anteneh Merid Emeru’s exile, journalism, and unyielding commitment to justice.
Documented by Ezra Ejigu and AddisAlem Mulat .
Anteneh Merid Emeru, born in the enchanting village of Dangur, Chagni, in 1957, embarked upon his life’s journey as a devoted guardian of the coast. Despite facing early hardships, including the untimely departure of his beloved mother, he remained steadfast in his pursuit of knowledge. Seeking solace, he sought refuge in the comforting presence of his uncle Ayalew Abera.
During his formative years at Bahir Dar Atse Sertse Dinge Melak Seged school in 1973, he confronted the tumultuous era of revolution and student activism intertwined with political turmoil. Undeterred by the frequent disruptions, he displayed remarkable resilience alongside his comrades, advancing through the ninth and eleventh grades with a solitary semester of accelerated progress.
From 1975 onward, he actively engaged with the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP), devoting himself to the advancement of education and youth empowerment. His political commitment led him to seek refuge in the wilderness in 1977, driven by an unwavering quest for justice. However, destiny took an unexpected turn when he found himself encircled by farmers in the Dangla area in April 1979. In an act of selflessness, Anteneh opted to spare the innocent farmers rather than cause them harm, miraculously enduring only minor injuries.
Subsequently arrested by the oppressive Derg regime, he endured nearly three years in confinement, to the prisons of Bahir Dar and Debre-Markos. Following his release, he resolutely resumed his studies, graduating from Addis Ababa University with a specialization in Ethiopian language and literature. In November 1988, he embarked on a journalistic career at the Ethiopian News Agency, where he diligently curated and presented news stories from various regions.
His unwavering commitment to justice and truth shines through his remarkable journey.
During the EPRDF era, he fearlessly championed reporting the struggles faced by coffee traders and the losses endured by Ethiopia, collaborating with private publications to amplify opposition voices.
Joining private media, the esteemed “Tobia” newspaper and magazine in 1993, he thrived in a supportive community, contributing to the newspaper and monthly magazine. Because of his reporting, he was arrested three times during prime minister Meles Zenawi time. Despite challenges, he and his colleagues remained steadfast in delivering balanced and unbiased news. Forced into exile, he continued his fight through articles exposing the flaws of the regime, inspiring resistance.
Currently, as ESAT’s coordinator in Toronto, he remains dedicated to journalism and his homeland.
Anteneh’s life exemplifies his unyielding dedication to justice, education, and truth, a testament to his enduring spirit.
