The Federal Supreme Court ordered the release of Bekele Gerba, Deputy Chairman of the Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC) and notable Oromo intellectual activist, on bail today which set at 30,000 birr.
The court passed the decision after reviewing Bekele’s appeal regarding the ruling of a lower court on the defendant’s rights to bail.
Originally, Bekele was denied bail in the lower court on account of terrorism charges instituted against him. However, following the amendment of the charges from terrorism to criminal charges, Bekele renewed his appeal for bail at the lower court.
Nevertheless, the decision of the lower court did not accommodate Bekele’s request and he proceeded to appeal to the Supreme Court.
Prosecutors opposed Bekele’s appeal for bail on the ground that he might tamper with evidence or could be a flight risk if released.
