Mekelle, Tigray – May 27, 2025
Courts in the city of Mekelle have suspended all operations as of May 21 due to serious security concerns, according to Siye Kidane G/Egzabher, Vice President of the Central Court of the City of Mekelle.
In an interview with VOA, Siye explained that the suspension is a result of mounting security threats facing judicial staff, particularly judges. “The situation we are facing now involves existential threats. There is no safe movement from home to work or from work to home,” he stated, adding that judges have been subjected to searches and harassment while commuting.
All sub-district courts in the city have also ceased operations until the situation is resolved.
Siye emphasized that the decision to halt judicial services is not unprecedented, noting that operational challenges have existed previously. However, he stressed that the current threat level makes it impossible to continue functioning. “We are ready to provide efficient and effective justice services if there is anyone who hears our concerns and offers a solution,” he said.
He also reminded the public that the courts are vital institutions for upholding justice and called on citizens to offer constructive feedback rather than intimidation.
Central Court Judge Mehari Gebre echoed these concerns, stating that the judiciary will remain closed until the interim administration addresses the threats facing judges. “We ask the public for patience while the security issues are being resolved,” he said, expressing hope that a resolution will come soon.
The suspension follows a reported incident involving the wife of Gebresselassie Belay—former Vice Commissioner of the Tigray Police Commission and current Commander of Army 22—who allegedly disrupted court proceedings and threatened judges. The disturbance occurred after her son, Yared, and her brother were convicted of murdering Zewdu Haftu by dragging her to death with a car.
For now, the courts in Mekelle remain closed, leaving residents without access to judicial services during an already fragile period in the region’s recovery.
