Eritrean Ex-Finance Minister and Regime Critic Dies in Prison After 6 Years Without Charge

Berhane Abrehe, a former Eritrean finance minister turned vocal critic of President Isaias Afwerki’s authoritarian regime, has died in prison at the age of 79. According to Human Rights Concern Eritrea, Berhane passed away on Monday after being detained for six years without charge.

Berhane was arrested in 2018 following the publication of his book, “Hagerey Eritrea” (“Eritrea, My Nation”), which called for democratic reforms and criticized the regime. He had been held incommunicado ever since, sparking widespread condemnation from human rights groups, including Amnesty International.

Berhane’s death highlights the dire human rights situation in Eritrea, often dubbed the “North Korea of Africa”. The country has been ruled with an iron fist by President Isaias since 1993, with severe restrictions on press freedom, civil liberties, and economic development.

Berhane’s legacy as a prominent political figure and advocate for change will not be forgotten. His tragic death in prison serves as a stark reminder of the regime’s brutal suppression of dissenting voices.