Human Rights League of the Horn of Africa (HRLHA)
February 17, 2014
It was with profound sadness and deep grief that the Human Rights League of the Horn of Africa (HRLHA) received the news of the passing away of Mr. Bekele Nedhi on February 11, 2014.
Mr. Bekele Nedhi was one of the founding members and the first Vice Chairman of the Board of the Human Rights League (HRL) when it was first formed in Ethiopia in 1996. Mr. Bekele Nedhi served the organization in this capacity until it was silenced by the EPRDF government of Ethiopia. On behalf of the HRLHA, members of its executive board, its staff, and on my behalf, I wish to convey our heartfelt and deepest condolences to Mr. Bekele Nedhi’s family and close friends.
Indeed, the passing away of Mr. Bekele Nedhi is a big loss to the Oromo Nation as a whole; as Mr. Bekele was one of the dedicated servants of the peoples. For decades, Mr. Bekele Nedhi was a source of hope, inspiration and impeccable leadership for the Oromo Nation in its struggle against the domination by the Abyssinian ruling class, and became a symbol of the struggle for freedom, justice, equality, and dignity for the Oromo Nation. His selfless sacrifice inspired a lot of freedom loving Oromos in Oromia to fight for justice, freedom and human rights. He leaves us behind with a legacy and great vision to attain greater changes and growth for the Oromo people.
At this time of bereavement, we in the HRLHA wish Mr. Bekele Nedhi’s family and close friends’ strength and wellbeing.
May his legacy live on, and may his soul rest in eternal peace. Amen!
Garoma B. Wakessa
Executive Director
