The African Development Bank (AfDB) has expressed outrage over the arrest, physical assault, and detention of two of its members of staff by security operatives in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
In a statement on Thursday, AfDB described the arrests as unlawful and a serious diplomatic incident, about which it has lodged a formal complaint with the Ethiopian authorities.
“We are pleased that the Prime Minister of Ethiopia immediately acted when he learnt of the incident, ordered the immediate release of the affected staff and promised to order an immediate investigation into the incident,” AfDB said.
The statement added that the government in Addis Ababa has formally acknowledged the bank’s complaint, recognised the gravity of the incident, “and reassured us that all those involved in breaking the law will be thoroughly investigated and brought to justice, ensuring transparency and full accountability.”
“Furthermore, the government has also reassured the African Development Bank that its staff in Ethiopia and those travelling to the country on mission will continue to enjoy full respect of their rights, privileges and diplomatic immunities under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations as well as the African Development Bank’s Host Country Agreement with the Government of Ethiopia,” added the statement.
It continued, “AfDB values its excellent relations with the government of Ethiopia and is currently engaged with the authorities, through diplomatic channels, concerning the incident.”
The management of AfDB reiterated its commitment to the safety, security, rights, and privileges of all its staff in all countries where the Bank operates, assuring that its operations in Ethiopia have not been affected by this incident.