International press institutions of which EFJA is a member, human rights activists, counterpart professional associations, civic societies and all concerned have expressed protest against this undemocratic call for a meeting which has no legal basis. They have also condemned this futile attempt that is driven by retribution and stands against the legitimate rights of the members.

The association Registration Department is, through the pressure exerted on it by officials of the ruling party and especially officials of the Ministry of Information, is making a call on EFJA members to be present at a meeting at which it is going to work out an agenda for the meeting, preside over the meeting and the election and approve the electred.

The executive committee of EFJA and member of EFJA would not participate at this illegal meeting that has been called under a situation where the Association Registration office of the ministry of Justice has suspended the association and executive committee members where an appeal lodged against the action has been put before the Minister of Justice in a letter dated December 5/03 .

The fate of EFJA and its leadership would be determined only by its members thorough a General Conference (meeting) called in accordance with the association’s administrative regulations. If at all individuals happen to participate at a meeting called by the Association Registration office outside the recognition of EFJA Executive Committee, it should be known that these individuals do not represent EFJA and its membership.

I am firmly convinced that press institutions throughout the world of which EFJA is a member, counterpart professional associations and democratic forces would discard any messages passed or contacts made in the name of EFJA.

I call on all members of EFJA not participate at this illegitimate meeting that stands against our rights to hold general meetings.

Best Regards,
Kifle Mulat
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
15, January 2004