From Wikipedia, the free encyclopediaJump to: navigation, search Teddy Afro Birth name Tewodros Kassahun Born Addis Ababa Genres Ethiopian music Years active 2001–present Labels Nahom Records Website http://www.teddyafroonline.com Teddy Afro (in Amharic: ?? ???; real name: Tewodros Kassahun, in Amharic: ????? ????, B. 14 July 1976) is a popular Ethiopian singer and critic of the ruling Ethiopian Peoples' Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF). His opposition to the government has led to legal troubles. Rise to fameIn 2001, Teddy Afro released his second album, Abugida, named after the Abugida syllabary of the Ge'ez language. Several tracks quickly caught the ear of many listeners in Ethiopia - "Halieselassie", a tribute to the late Emperor of Ethiopia Haile Selassie I; "Haile, Haile", a single in honor of the Olympic long distance champion Haile Gebrselassie; and "Mona Lisa", a song about the measure of human beauty. His third album, Yasteseryal, was released in 2005. The release of this album coincided with elevated political tension in Ethiopia surrounding the Ethiopian general election, 2005. His politically- and socially-inspired songs acted as a call for unity and peace and made the 17 years of TPLF-led government in power concerned.[citation needed] Consequently the government banned four songs including "Yasteseryal" from playing on radios and TV (http://www.ethiopianreview.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=10689&p=53228). The most popular song of the album "Yasetseryal" claims that there is no real change in Ethiopia but a new government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) fight against the Derg was nothing but an infamous military junta.The album sold more than a million copies within a few months after its release, becoming the biggest selling Ethiopian music album to date.[1] [edit] Legal troublesAfro was accused of hit-and-run manslaughter and was imprisoned in April 2008.[2] Some sources claimed that the accusation was politically motivated, following the release of several songs critical of the government, especially during the May 2005 national election.[3] Afro pleaded not guilty to these allegations, and his court case and imprisonment were national talking points in Ethiopia.[4] Some members of the opposition viewed his imprisonment as part of the regime in Ethiopia attack on symbols of Ethiopian unity,[5] Afro was convicted of manslaughter on 5 December 2008 and the judge sentenced him to six years' imprisonment and a fine of 18,000 Birr (apr. 1800 USD). On 18 February 2009, Afro's prison sentence was reduced from six years to two years by an appellate court.[6] On 13 August 2009, Afro was released from prison eight months early on account of good behaviour in prison.[2][ Released works[edit] AlbumsAlbum Information Abugida Released: 2001 Record Label: Nahom Records Singles: "Lidjennet Alat", "Leman Lemash", "Mona Lisa" Tarik Tesera Released: 2004 Record Label: evangadi prodaction Singles: "Tarik Teserra" (Anbessa) Yasteseryal Released: 2005 Record Label: Nahom Records

Executive Producer: Elias Fikru Singles: "Yasteseryal", "Bel Stegne", "Lambadina", "Promise","alamin" Yasteseryal Edition 2 Released: 2005 Record Label: Nahom Records Executive Producer: Elias Fikru Singles: "Yasteseryal", "Bel Stegne", "Lambadina", "Promise" Best Collection-Nahom Volume 14 Released: 2006 Record Label: Nahom Records Singles: "Menta Wedije", "Yregal", "Lamie Bora", "Sdet" [edit] DVDsDVD Information Tarik Tesera By Tewodros Kassahun Released: 2004 Record Label: Nahom Records Executive Producer: Elias Fikru Singles: "Tarik Tesera" (Anbessa) Yasteseryal - DVD Released: 2005 Record Label: Nahom Records Executive Producer: Elias Fikru Singles: "Yasteseryal", "Promise", "Anbessa", "Seleme"

Teddy Afro aka Tewodros Kassahun Teddy Afro, Ethiopia’s biggest pop star, was born on 14 July 1976 to parents of artistic talents and fame. Afro, born Tewodros Kassahun, is known as Ethiopia’s Bob Marley, thanks to his occasionally socio-political lyrics and his frequent use of roots-reggae rhythms. While his mother, Tilaye Arage, was well known in Ethiopia for her professional dancing in her younger days, his late father, Kassahun Germamo, was a renowned and highly-regarded Ethiopian songwriter. Since musical talent runs in the family, it is easy to conclude that Teddy Afro was predisposed to have admirable musical talents too. As evidently stated by Teddy Afro himself in his tribute song to his late father called Music – My Life, Teddy’s father always resisted the idea of his son becoming a musician. \ Regardless of his father’s wishes, however, Teddy trusted his own instincts and saw himself doing anything but singing as a career to arguably become the single most popular pop-star Ethiopia has produced in many years. Not only is he a vocalist that countless Ethiopians have come to adore, he also writes his own lyrics, which many say are filled with meanings, enabling him to sing songs that mean something. His father did not live long enough see the effects of his son’s music on the lives of countless Ethiopians all over the world. But Teddy tells his deceased father in Music – My Life, that he will continue to exist through the artistic works of his son. In Music – My Life, Teddy also confesses that his life is intrinsically intertwined with music that he cannot live outside of it, and that he was destined to be what he has become. Ten years ago, the name Teddy Afro was non-existent as a celebrity and it wasn’t until 2001 that he really stepped into the limelight. What Teddy has become since is something beyond what he would have ever contemplated for himself. Heralded throughout the Ethiopian diaspora since 2001, Teddy and his band, Abogida, toured the world bringing many of his sensational songs that have made him famous live to his fans. From South Africa to North America, the Middle East and Australia, he criss-crossed the world to entertain and convey messages of peace, love, hope and unity in a language almost anyone can understand. Afro is little-known in the Anglo music world—he is not even mentioned at allmusic.com—but he has received some media attention here in articles discussing his attitude toward his country’s government, as well as his recent jail time. Afro’s profile at home grew when the Ethiopian government banned several of his songs as part of a 2005 post election crackdown. Then, after a controversial indictment and trial, Afro began serving a jail sentence in 2008 for a 2006 incident in which he allegedly hit and killed a homeless boy with his BMW and fled from the scene. Afro maintained that he was innocent and that the government trumped up the charges because of his political criticisms. He spent 16 months in jail. A judge had originally sentenced him to six years but an appeals court ruling and time off for good behavior reduced his jail time. However, don’t expect Afro to cross over to Anglo audiences based on that rebel-poet image, at least immediately. He sings in Amharic and his music often has the very smooth, loungelike feel of quiet-storm R&B. While many of us may just hear polished crooning, the Ethiopian community will hear his messages—his pleas for peace in his homeland, his pronouncements of love, and his ode to Haile Gebrselassie, an Ethiopian gold medal-winning long-distance runner. Teddy Afro aka Tewodros Kassahun

Latest articlesAre we having too much of Teddy Afro? Published: Jan 24, 2012 by admin Filed under: Exclusives Music News Addis Ababa- January 24, 2012- Teddy Afro has now become more controversial than a beloved singer. Every news paper and magazine published seems to have some sort of story about the singer. Writers are even arguing on several matters including his personal and professional life. He happens to make it on the cover of almost all magazines published in Addis. The singer, who props up the emotions of many for his 2005 album about election, unity and the love of the country, was unable to make a new album for many reasons. However, he did manage to come up with several singles loved by many and questioned by some. Teddy manage to make it to the head lines, especially after being imprisoned for killing a pedestrian by running over in the middle of the night. He was found guilty and that was, where the magazines and newspapers got top news of their entire history. Since, his arrest was criticized for being politically motivated; the private media went crazy on the matter in a ways that looked obsessive.

NEWS 14 October 2009 Ethiopia: Unanswered question of censorship at Teddy Afro’s first concert since release Was it self-censorship or restrictions that held Teddy Afro back from playing his two most controversial songs at his triumphant 'back-in-freedom concert' which gathered 30,000 of his fans on 11 October 2009? By Tsigue Shiferaw — Freemuse's correspondent in Addis Ababa An estimated 30,000 people came on 11 October 2009 to see Teddy Afro perform at the National Stadium in Addis Ababa — .the first concert since his release from prison two months ago The 31-year-old Ethiopian reggae star performed most of his repertoire — except those two songs which are considered the most controversial of his. They both were published on his 2005-album ‘Yastesarial’: ‘Dahlak’ — the name of an archipelago located off the Eritrean shores in the Red Sea. According to official circles the song has a political motive, as it talks about Ethiopia and Eritrea. Both countries went to war from 1998 to 2000, and close to 100.000 people died during the conflict. The other controversial song Teddy Afro didn’t perform was the title song ‘Yastersarial’, which talks about his own political views, supporting opposing voices to that of the government. Was it censorship? Going backstage and meeting the promoters, it was difficult to get a full understand of whether the censorship of these two specific songs was imposed on the singer or self-imposed to avoid further problems. None of the persons interviewed by Freemuse felt free to tell us what the exact situation was, and who made the decision. In addition it was noticed that the concert wasn’t transmitted live on the only television network in Ethiopia: ETV — a government channel. However, the channel was present and produced a short feature for the news programme. The concert went on peacefully, with thousands of youths present, all singing Teddy Afro’s lyrics by heart. With ticket prices ranging from 0,85 US dollars up to 15, many youths came to attend the live concert which was organised as a benefit show for to two charities. Anti-riot police At the end of the concert, at around 11:30 PM reports spread that anti-riot police force had gathered around the stadium area, intimidating the youth, who according to witnesses felt angry about their presence. Singer Teddy Afro was arrested in April 2008 after being accused of a car hit and run accident, back in November 2006. Many people believe that he was imprisoned due to his political position in his Yasterial album. Released the same year as the national elections in Ethiopia, the singer’s political views were resented by the authorities. The elections were followed by riots where approximately 200 people were killed.

NEWS 08 December 2008 Ethiopia: Teddy Afro sentenced to six years in prison for hit-and-run incident On 5 December 2008 it was announced that the popular Ethiopian reggae singer and opposition political icon Teddy Afro has been sentenced to six years imprisonment and an 18,000 Br fine for his involvement in a hit-and-run incident in which an 18-year old homeless man was killed in November 2006. The trial against reggae singer Teddy Afro has caused a sensation in Ethiopia, where some of his songs were seen as opposition anthems during the violent aftermath of the 2005 elections. One song accused the government of failing to live up to its promises of change. Therefore, many Ethiopians believe the famous reggae artist is innocent and claim that Teddy Afro now is to be regarded a political prisoner. As Teddy Afro left his previous court hearing in July 2008, he proclaimed his innocence to the world. He was quoted as saying: “I did not kill anyone! God is my witness. I did not kill anyone! God’s powers are above all powers. I appeal to the sense of justice of all those who are sworn to serve this country. Without just cause, I have been caged in a lice-infested jail.” In his defense, Teddy Afro told the court he was out of the country at the time of the fatal hit-and-run accident. Tthe judge rejected this alibi, saying it was not credible in the face of the evidence presented by the prosecution. Fear of the soldiers The court case had been moved to a separate big hall where about 500 people, including many journalists, could attend. A heavy police presence outside the court complex prevented any demonstrations after the sentence was pronounced, but groups of young people milled around as news of the prison sentence spread. Most looked the other way when a reporter approached. When asked why there was no crowd at the court house, a university student told the reporter from Voice of America: “(It’s) because of fear of soldiers around us. Because of that.” The verdict The Federal High Court Eighth Criminal Bench, which has been trying the case since 16 April 2008, found Teddy Afro guilty on two counts: The first was his involvement in the hit and run incident in which an 18-year old homeless man was killed in November 2006. The second count was on fleeing from the scene of the crime, when he possibly could have helped the person hit. According to the Ethiopian penal code, a driver would be charged with homicide if he knocks down a person, leading to death, and drives 15 metres away from the scene of the accident. The penalty ranges from 5-15 years of imprisonment and a fine that peaks to 15,000 Br. The other crime the court found Teddy Afro guilty of committing is punishable by an imprisonment of one month to two years and a 1,000 Br – 5,000 Br fine, according to the penal code. He was subsequently sentenced to one year imprisonment and a 5,000 Br fine for this charge.

Judge: “Minimum penalties” Judge Leul Gebremariam, who presided over the trial, told the court that the defendant had been given the minimum sentences for the charges. “The aim of penal code is more of corrective than punitive. That is why the court has sentenced the defendant to the minimum penalties,” judge Leul Gebremariam was quoted by Wudineh Zenebe as having said. This, however, was not acceptable to Teddy Afro, who adamantly spoke out saying, again, that he had not committed any crime. As he was led out of the courtroom, he turned to a group of reporters and said, “I feel free.” The singer’s attorneys are set to appeal the conviction. Attorney Million Assefa told Voice of America that the singer did not see himself as a political figure and did not intend his songs as to be a rallying cry for anti-government groups. In Ethiopia, jailed singer is a political symbol THE WORLD Fans say the reggae star was framed for hit-and-run because his music is seen as anti-government. August 11, 2008|Edmund Sanders | Times Staff WriterADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA — Sequestered in a dank prison cell here, Ethiopia's biggest reggae star awaits trial in a deadly hit-and-run case that has galvanized the nation. Federal prosecutors say Tewodros Kassahun, dubbed the Bob Marley of Ethiopia, fled after striking a homeless boy with his BMW. They call it a case of celebrity bad behavior. Fans say the singer, also known as Teddy Afro, is being framed because of his music's perceived anti-government message. In one song, he accuses Ethiopia's leaders of promising change, but bringing only "a new king." Fans also ask why Kassahun was not charged until April, though the boy was killed in 2006. Kassahun's controversial incarceration has spurred small protests, a rarity in this tightly controlled Horn of Africa country, and is fast becoming a national symbol of what some call Ethiopia's latest democratic backsliding. After a 2005 postelection crackdown, Ethiopia's government tried to ease tensions last fall by pardoning thousands of jailed opposition supporters and allowing some independent newspapers to reopen. "We'd hoped that was the beginning of an opening in the democratic space," said Hailu Araaya, deputy chairman of the recently formed Unity for Democracy and Justice party. He spent 20 months in jail before his release in July 2007. "But the political space is contracting again. It's clear the ruling party is determined to stay in power by any means." Government critics point to a string of new laws targeting political parties, journalists and humanitarian agencies. Under one new law, political parties can no longer accept foreign donations and must disclose the names of domestic contributors. Opposition groups say that restriction has dried up their financial support because potential contributors fear government retaliation. A draft bill would ban private aid agencies and civic groups from "political" activities, such as advocating human rights, if they receive more than 10% of their funding from foreigners.

A new media law permits government censorship and jail terms for journalists. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said the reforms were an attempt to bring Ethiopia's laws up to international standards, noting that U.S. rules also ban foreign campaign contributions. "We are institutionalizing democracy and getting the law right," he said. "I don't think the political space is in any way being constrained." But critics said restrictions on foreign funding and political activism were particularly galling considering that nearly 40% of Ethiopia's government budget comes from international donors and that the ruling party has hired a Washington lobbyist to attack U.S. legislation seeking to tie aid to Ethiopia's human rights record. "This is a nationalist charade," Human Rights Watch attorney Reed Brody said. Opposition leaders and some Western diplomats say the new laws appear to be an attempt to consolidate power before the 2010 presidential election. Ethiopia’s most famous pop singer, Teddy Afro, has had his sentence for manslaughter reduced on appeal. He was jailed for causing the death of a young homeless man through dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of the accident. The sentence was reduced from six years to two years, which means that – allowing for time already served – he could be free very shortly. The singer has always denied committing the crime. As news of the decision rippled out across Addis Ababa, groups of young people gathered in the streets, cheering and hugging each other at the news that their favourite singer would soon be free. Victim ‘was drunk’ Teddy Afro, charged under his real name of Tewodros Kassahun, had originally received a six-year jail sentence, after a car identified as belonging to him hit and killed a young homeless man in the centre of Addis Ababa and then failed to stop to offer assistance. The performer has always said that he was not driving at the time. The appeal judge, Mr Justice Dagne Melaku, in a careful and detailed decision, upheld the guilty verdict but reduced the sentence from six years to two – on the grounds that the victim had been seen lying drunk and unconscious in the road before the accident – and that the police had failed to move him to safety. The singer has already spent nearly a year in jail and with an allowance for good behaviour he should now be free in less than a year. His die-hard fans, however, still refuse to accept he could be guilty, continuing to maintain that he is the victim of a political vendetta because Teddy Afro’s music was identified with the opposition cause at the time of the controversial 2005 elections. Source: BBC

NEWS 06 August 2008 Ethiopia: Teddy Afro's trial takes a strange twist The defence lawyer of reggae singer Teddy Afro and an editor-in-chief of a local newspaper which interviewed the lawyer were arrested in Addis Ababa on 4 August 2008. The lawyer was convicted to 50 days in prison on 6 August. By Tsigue Shiferaw – Freemuse’s reporter in Addis Ababa The popular Ethiopian reggae star Teddy Afro is held in custody, charged with the death of Degu Yibeltal – a homeless young man who was killed in a car accident more than a year and half ago. In mid-July 2008, the newspaper Addis Neger published an interview with Teddy Afro's lawyer, Million Assefa. It was a the front page interview where Million Assefa told the newspaper that he was considering suing the judge of Teddy Afro's court case, Leul Gebremariam, for not letting him defend his client properly. Million Assefa was quoted as saying “that he was considering taking action against judge Leul Gebremariam on disciplinary ground.” One of the reasons for this was that in July, judge Leul Gebremariam of the Federal High Court ruled a verdict for singer Teddy Afro to defend himself against the prosecutors' charge that he had been involved in the death of Degu Yibeltal, and adjourned his case to 9 October 2008. Judge Leul Gebremariam held the newspaper's editor-in-chief, Mesfin Negash, as well as the defence lawyer responsible for the content of the interview and labelled it “contempt to the court”. The newspaper’s deputy editor was also arrested on 4 August. He was released again later the same day, while the lawyer and editor-in-chief remained in custody until — at a court hearing in the morning on 6 August 2008 — Million Assefa was found guilty of contempt of court and was sentenced to one month and 20 days in prison. Mesfin Negash, owner and editor-in-chief of Addis Neger, was released after the hearing on 6 August. Trial full of irregularities Prior to their first court hearing, on 5 August, I asked Million Assefa what he thought the judge had done wrong. Teddy Afro's court case “is abuse of power from single individuals,” he told me, adding that “Teddy Afro's trial was full of irregularities.” When they appeared in court in the morning on 5 August both the editor and the lawyer looked surprisingly relaxed after a night in prison. Teddy Afro has been held behind bars for over three months now. He is charged with the hit and run incident that occurred in November 2006. At the time the incident occurred he was detained briefly and released on a 50,000 birr bail, but then, on 16 April 2008, he was suddenly arrested again and taken to Kaliti prison facility, 25 kilometres out of the capital, suspected of killing the 18-year-old street boy. A taxi driver at the time allegedly tipped off the police to the license number of Teddy Afro’s BMW, which was later found in a ditch on the road towards the CMC residential area where the singer resides. Teddy Afro pleaded not guilty to driving without a license and to negligent driving. His trial has been accompanied by a large crowd of his fans, family and friends who all believe he is innocent, framed by the authorities in order to silence his critique of the regime.

PAST VIDEOS The Unintended Consequences of the Ordeals of Teddy Afro – Selam Beyene, Ph.D., Beyene50@gmail.com December 8th, 2008 Print Email If there were any doubters about the viciousness and callousness of Zenawi’s dictatorship, those doubts must now be dispelled by the recent conviction of Tewodros Kassahun (a.k.a. Teddy Afro) in the kangaroo court of the despot [1]. Without regard to the strength of the evidence presented by the defendant [2], Zenawi ordered the excessive punishment of the artist, demonstrating to the world once again his ruthlessness and cruelty in treating innocent civilians that he perceives as a threat to his authoritarian rule. As has been widely reported [3], there was gross inconsistency between the date the autopsy record showed when the alleged victim had died and the time when the hit and run purportedly took place. Ironically, in the dictator’s premeditated agenda to use the tragic death of the victim for vindictive political purpose, the sham judicial system has turned a blind eye to the investigation and prosecution of the “real” perpetrators of the enigmatic crime. Behind the travesty of justice is, of course, the sinister motive of the dictator to send a signal of terror to future artists, and to divert attention from the pressing issues of the day – poverty, famine, human rights, war and sectarianism. However, the bogus proceedings and the ensuing imposition of draconian measures have resulted in unintended consequences. The controversies surrounding the dubious arrest and sentencing of the artist have further damaged the already ugly image of the dictator even among those sections of the population that have been willing to give the tyrant the benefit of the doubt. The members of the Millennial Generation have hitherto watched the toxic ethnic policies of Zenawi with measured skepticism, and played relatively marginal and passive roles in the fragmented struggles against sectarianism and authoritarian rule. They have now been stunned and rudely awakened by the brutality of the way the dictator has treated their idol, who has only been known to them through his extraordinary music and message of love, harmony and justice. This is a generation that has its future in jeopardy thanks to the destructive policies of Zenawi that are designed to foment inter-ethnic animosity, to subject the population to perpetual famine, ignorance and diseases, and to promote nepotism and corruption over meritocracy [4]. This is also a cohort that is endowed with the 21st century skill set, and the temperament, drive and energy required to present an effective and credible resistance against tyranny and ethno-centrism. The vigorous awakening of the Millennial Generation thus marks a watershed moment in the ongoing struggle that has so desperately lacked the active and passionate involvement of the youth. The anger and determination for change aroused now in this generation is a phenomenon that has not been seen since the nascent awakening movements of the 60’s and the 70’s. As the sacrifices of the youth were instrumental three decades ago to weaken Mengistu Haile-Mariam and eventually make him lethally vulnerable to the attacks of the opportunist parasites, Afeworki and Zenawi, there is no alternative to the leadership role that must be assumed by the Millennial Generation to bring to an end the current plague engulfing the country. To the rest of the population, Zenawi has re-affirmed his trademark insensitivity and disdain for civility, at a time when many are still seeking answers to the numerous crimes and intransigencies of the dictator, including the massacre of innocent civilians [5], the stolen victory of the people in the 2005 elections [6] the genocide against the various ethnic groups [7], the use of famine as a stealth instrument of repression [8], and the adventurous war being waged in

Somalia to curry favor from the West [9]. To those in the Diaspora who have guilelessly been transferring hard-currency to the repressive machinery of the dictator in the name of “investing in the homeland”, the plight of Teddy Afro shall serve as a reminder that their actions are not only emboldening the dictator, but are also lending him leverage to extend his spiteful control over their freedom. Every dime that goes for the purchase of a ticket from the TPLF controlled airline, or to acquire real estate at ridiculous prices, or to get other products and services from the network of business enterprises owned by the tyrant and his henchmen, is one more dime spent to perpetuate tyranny and to yield one’s freedom to a ruthless despot. In the current economic downturn, when the tyrant is desperate for hard-currency, uncritical transfer of funds to his coffers is a blatant expression of insensitivity to the plight of the people the money is used to exploit and repress. To opposition groups, who credulously have been playing the treacherous game of cohabitation with the tyrant, the conviction of Teddy is a signal to refrain from participating in a political process without well-established groundrules that guarantee fairness, and without securing accountability for that tragedy that blemished the 2005 elections. The recent events in Kenya and Zimbabwe have provided a proven template for dealing with dictators that are addicted to manipulation of elections as a means of perpetuating their tyrannical rules. The people of Ethiopia expect and deserve no less in return for their votes, and they will no longer tolerate opposition leaders who will betray their trust and thwart their aspirations for democracy and justice. To ethnic-based freedom fighters who have fallen to the dictator’s poisonous trap of sectarianism, the plight of Teddy shall serve as a catalyst to re-examine their agenda and to stand in unity against oppression and authoritarianism. Dictatorship can only be crushed with a united front of all the oppressed people – a front founded with the singular goal of establishing a united and democratic Ethiopia that guarantees equality, liberty and social justice to all of its citizens. To those in the military who are prepared to pay the ultimate price to preserve the sovereignty of their country, the shameless conviction of an innocent artist should be a wake-up call to question their allegiance to a vicious despot. As products of a great people, with a glorious history, they have a momentous responsibility to use their organization, power and discipline to liberate their people and save the country from total destruction and disintegration. To the sons and daughters of Tigrai, who have thus far paid blind loyalty to a manipulative dictator, let the injustice of Teddy serve as a clarion call to join their brothers and sisters in the fight against tyranny and sectarianism. In the current African reality, no ethnic-based rule can bring lasting peace and prosperity; no minority can advance its interests at the expense of the suffering of the vast majority; and no military might or wealth can protect a privileged few from the wrath and retribution of an oppressed mass. Napoleon Hill wrote: “Every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” Thus, even through this most evil of acts against the artist have come unintended opportunities – the further alienation and isolation of the despot and the dramatic awakening and determination of the Millennial Generation. It is the responsibility of all those who care for freedom, liberty, and democracy to seize these opportunities, and to bring an end to decades of repression in Ethiopia. The time has indeed never been more auspicious than now to rekindle the fighting spirit of the people of Ethiopia: • Those in the Diaspora should mobilize their immense resources to bring together the fragmented opposition groups, and to re-ignite the drive to pass HR3000 in the US Senate. The incoming US administration and leaders like Senator Russ Feingold, who has a clearly articulated view of the danger of pampering dictators [10], are eager to restore America’s image as a symbol of hope to oppressed people around the world. Without submitting to unrealistic expectations, the Diaspora should present a counterforce against the onslaught of attacks by Zenawi’s lobbyists to

trap the Obama administration and maintain control over the career diplomats. • Opposition groups inside and outside of Ethiopia should resist the temptation to participate in any future elections orchestrated by Zenawi in the absence of strict and enforceable preconditions for free and fair elections. They must vigorously oppose any elections that are marred by fraud and violence, and be prepared to boldly apply the recent lessons from the elections in Kenya and Zimbabwe to protect the votes of the people. • The youth should altruistically assume its fundamental responsibility to fight for freedom and social justice, and ferociously protect its future, heritage and history. The passion and anger aroused by the ruthless treatment of Teddy Afro must be harnessed and channeled to a worthy cause of establishing a just Ethiopia where all citizens enjoy liberty, equality and the pursuit of happiness sans ethnicity. [1] http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2008/dec/03/teddy-afro-convicted-manslaughter [2] http://www.addisvoice.com/article/ballad_of_teddy.htm [3] http://www.ethiomedia.com/aurora/9196.html [4] http://www.ethiopianreview.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=10466 [5] http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/6064638.stm [6] http://www.omct.org/pdf/Observatory/2006/report/ [7] http://www.genocidewatch.org/THE%20ANUAK%20OF%20ETHIOPIA.htm [8] http://www.abugidainfo.com/?p=5851 [9] http://www.ethiomedia.com/aurora/9184.html [10] http://feingold.senate.gov/~feingold/statements/08/03/20080303.htm Comments (11) Sami | #1 Reply | Quote Yes, Meles and his followers are evils. Eventually, they will go to hell just because evil doesn’t last forever. We all know at the end of the day evil will lose as darkness loses for day light. mateos | #2 Reply | Quote When Legesse Z and his Eritrean traitors advisors were were in the aiga bush they had a dream, a dream of, 1- how distroy Ethiopia with the ancient method of divide and rule in ethnic lines, 2- to become the most sophisticated slave in Africa, 3- to kill and humiliate the Ethiopian people through guns, lies, and other available methodology of psychological warfare, 4- to be the puppets of all western countries, 5- to be puppets of Chines, lastly 6- to distroy the fabric of the brotherly-sisterly that existed in the horn of Africa for many generations through backstabbing and betraying. My fellow Ethiopians if you are amazed by Teddys sentencing then you must have been asleep for the past 17 years when on slaught of Ethiopian people started! WEDI tigray | #3 Reply | Quote ohhhhhh BARVO OUR HERO MELLES ZENAWI YOU ARE THE KING OF THE BATTEL GROUND. YOUR ENEMIS CAN DO NOTHING BUT CRYING LOUDLY OHH I LOVE THE WAY OUR ENEMIS BUREN IN HELLLLLL. GOD BLESS MELLES ZENAWI. THE REAL HERO THE KING OF WAR. atuba dolla | #4 Reply | Quote No single Ethiopian is absolutely save from being the victim of the brutal regime’s crimebosss, Meles Naziawi. Came into Ethiopia via invasion as one of members of the barefoot bandits,cruel and sick but wealthy not healthy was called Legess Zinawi but later became Meles Naziawi has now reached the tip of the crimemountain where from the top he glances at the citizens to pick up his next victim. Teddy,the singer was one of the victims the crimefamily pryed upon and later when the time fits into a favourable one,the bandits trpped him into the setup trap and sent him to prision on false accusation. who will be the next victim? Anybody. Leul Tadesse | #5 Reply | Quote There’s nothing in this world that shameless tyrants won’t do to

stay in power. Nevertheless they know that their days are numbered. Teddy might come out of jail through the shameful drama of “shimagiles” but how about the millions of Oromo languising in Kaliti and Shewa Robit? How about the thousands of other ethnic groups locked behind bars just because they aired dissenting views? Degu Kumello | #6 Reply | Quote The unjust ruling of the 8th criminal bench has horrified millions of Ethiopians. The Ethiopian tyrants have indeed reached their climax. But at the apex is their failure and disgrace. We must unite together to depose this rogue regime. Asrat Abera Buta | #7 Reply | Quote Tewodros sang, “the rebel leader with 17-kneedle shorts came to power but did not unleash change,” how dare he? Ato Meles Zenawi is a brave, charismatic leader who has led Ethiopia to unprecedented economic growth. Yet, he shamelessly killed an innocent man. He is getting away with six years. Are you crying for this? Tseganesh Balcha | #8 Reply | Quote Asrat you stink. How dare you yourself? Teddy is a very talented young artist, whose musical lyrics and professional efficiency as well as creativity is quite unmatched by any singer you can think of here in Ethiopia. And your despot Meles is a tyrant, who actually led Ethiopia into a dismal abyss. Ethiopia has become poorer thanks to his unwise and destructive ethnic leadership. The prosecutor could not bring any substantial evidence to convict Teddy. It’s just your kangaroo court, which does a travesty of justice. Teddy will come out soon but you’re really ethno-fascists, who’ll never learn from history because they’re so dumb. GOMORA | #9 Reply | Quote shame on you pm.melles zenawi zemenawi. how can you send this azmari teddy faro. only 6years in prison? shame shame on the rule of law in ethiopia. he must be killed or lfe in prison. I mean he should be in prison for the rest of his dumen life. ohhh shit I know soon some real heros come to gun dowen him blow his bloody head off. dedeb azmary no one gone get free when you kill inocent ppl. PROFESSOR | #10 Reply | Quote Gomora for sure you are from DEDEBIT UNI. bin | #11 Reply | Quote btamnum batamnum meles leba new lager yemytekem hager kahadi dnber afrashe hzeb geday asari metfo meri new slezhe inga fetaren melemen aleben meles( weynae )(kingit) (hbret) le ethiopia aytkmum ibakhhu inde woyane anasb inde sew inseb fiker yashenfal teddy afro free new ethiopia yetebarekeh hager nat teddy free woyane leba new betamnum batamnum yhe new iwnetu teddy afro free God bless teddy and ethiopia melaw hizb Comments are closed. Existential Seriousness and the Imperative of Regime Change. – By Prof. Teodros Kiros The Spirit is in the Air, No Time to Despair – Afura Burtukana Search for: Famine in the Horn of Africa – @Harvard on Feb. 5, 2012 Abugida TV - 12-28-2011 Copyright © 2006-2012 Abugida Ethiopian American Information Center Theme by mg12. Valid XHTML 1.1 and CSS 3. Teddy Afro's New Song, Sew Abel Ena Kayel, and the Dilemma's of Ethiopian Modernity. 14 January, 2010 | Teodros Kiros (PhD) The singer thinker, the icon of Ethiopian youth is out on the streets of freedom.

There he encounters the street beggars and street children and sings about them. The camera takes us directly to the street corners where the homeless Ethiopians reside. The camera slowly moves to document their lives. The movement is slow so that we can absorb the reality as Teddy accompanies with the melodies of sorrow, and a subtle message to the viewer to think and act about their misery, their pain. We are invited to think musically and act morally. The camera returns again and this time to document the lives of street children. At first a lovely child full of smiles, in tattered cloth, visits us. The child poses for us and our eyes are quickly filled with tears, as the child’s eyes invite us to care, to attend to his existence. The child wants us to know that, he like many others, was celebrated at birth, but now, the world does not even know that they exist. Teddy’s music accompanies the child and becomes the voice and conscience of street children, the lone beggars on the street. Teddy’s large eyes, the sparkling teeth, not to say the Golden voice, are interrogating Ethiopian modernity. The new song is subtle, existentially serious, deep and heart penetrating. We are treated to the two faces of Ethiopian modernity, skyscrapers, highways, hotels, and gourmet food as they stare at us rudely; and then our eyes refuse to see the children on the streets, their saddened mothers, and their unemployed fathers. The new song compels us to see. Some eyes see cakes; other eyes stare at the naked reality, without hope. We are forced to stare at the two faces of Ethiopian modernity; hope for the negligible few and misery for millions of Ethiopians. The singer-thinker appeals to the Transcendent, like Diagonese, the Greek philosopher of antiquity, long before him, and begs God to attend to the human condition, by creating a new human being who thinks for the world, and who would wake us up from our deep sleep. The appeal is subtle, and the indictment of the holders of power is in the background, it is the unsaid, which says, without saying. Teddy brilliantly tells us what we must do by showing us Ethiopian reality. The artist is doing his job, and as Birtukan, asked before she left, are you

ready to act, are you ready to fight? Teddy begs God to speak, to act and to show him the way to change the miserable Ethiopian reality. We are asked to get engaged, to really see at the horrible reality environing us, beyond the glaring commodities of wealth and power for the very rich. Sew Abel Ena Kayel brings music to its classical place, as the interrogator of reality, and the documenter of the Ethiopian condition. All rights reserved. Ethio Quest News Together We Can Make It!

Protests over Ethiopia pop singer By Elizabeth Blunt BBC, Addis Ababa Teddy Afro's music has been an anthem for anti-government protests. Ethiopia's most popular pop singer, Teddy Afro, has pleaded not guilty to causing the death of a young man in a hit and run incident 18 months ago. Thousands of young people mounted an impromptu protest after the High Court hearing, running through the streets, shouting, "Teddy is innocent". Unauthorised demonstrations are almost unheard of in Ethiopia and there was a heavy paramilitary police presence. At a previous hearing, the noise of his fans almost drowned out proceedings. This time the case was moved to a building at the back of the court area, well away from the crowd. The singer appeared under close police guard, dressed in a pink t-shirt and looking subdued. He spoke only to plead not guilty to negligent driving, driving without a licence, and failing to stop at the scene of an accident. The incident in question took place in November 2006 and since then the singer, whose real name is Tewodros Kassahun, has been free on bail. It is not clear why he was rearrested last week and has now been charged. He was remanded in custody until next Tuesday. As the news spread in the street that Teddy was going back to jail, the crowd erupted and a large group of youths started jogging past waving and shouting that the singer was not guilty. The police chased them with batons until they finally dispersed into the surrounding streets. This kind of demonstration has not been seen in Addis Ababa since the period after the elections in 2005 when Teddy Afro's songs were playing everywhere and his music was the anthem of the anti-government protesters.

Teddy Afro, our symbol of unity and tolerance! – Tedla Asfaw December 5th, 2008 Print Email “Go out !!! otherwise, I will give you the maximum punishment”, the TPLF made theater stage director, Cadre Leiul Gebre Mariam /Gebre Seitan screamed after sending Teddy Afro to six years to jail and pay 18,000 Birr as bonus for Gebre Seitan wonderful “Broadway” show that ended on this Black Friday, Dec. 5, 2008. Let the celebration begun in TPLF’s camp for their successful show that culminated by sending Teddy Afro, the voice and symbol of Ethiopia to their dark cell hoping Ethiopians will forget him like they forgot many patriots Ethiopians before. However, this time is different. Teddy’s songs are now the rallying cry for Ethiopians and our young generations showed us the glimpse of what to come on last month Great Run, “Talaku Rucha” after paying 40 Birr to get a spot. “Teddy Obama, Meles Asama/Hippo” , that was the rallying cry chanted by thousands on the streets of Addis Ababa. Political rally is a crime in Ethiopia and that is why the Great Run is billed as “Talaku Rucha, Bisote Megletchia” in Amharic meaning “The Great Run, platform to speak our minds”, and that is how young, old Ethiopians showed to the world what the so called trial of Teddy Afro has been all about for the last eight months, a sham circus and a conspiracy by those “Asamas”/hippos who are eating everything on their way including their loved singer, Teddy Afro. Teddy Afro is now a martyr and a symbol of Ethiopia and the Ethiopian masses have to pray for him in churches and mosques. This young man’s song for tolerance among Ethiopian Christians and Muslims, nationalities not to fall to the trap of hate propaganda by the TPLF’s hippos for the last eighteen years was a remarkable achievement no prison can take it from us. Locking Teddy in jail will not stop the resistance movement and those apologists who are telling us that TPLF is not enemy let them go and pray for the longevity of their king and queen. Queen Azeb Mesfin avenged the humiliation she received in America when she came for an “award” few years ago by orchestrating the hit-and-run show to its successful end. She can now sleep good listening to Teddy Afro songs. It is true, the queen is not listening to Bob Marley’s, “No woman No cry”, because this time the one crying is Teddy’s mother and millions of his admirers. It is indeed today is a day of crying in Ethiopia and also a call for more martyrs to carry the Ethiopian flag until freedom. Comments (7) Dubale | #1 Reply | Quote Tedla Asfaw We know now who you are. You are crying crocodile tear for Teddy because he is no leading a party. But you stongly hate the equally or more fighter Birtukan. Furthermore, try to learn how to write before your start writing. Thanks abdul | #2 Reply | Quote We are all oppostions diapsoras political forces??? .You should call a peace protest about Human rights in Ethiopia .stop writting and crying in websites and pal-talks. Actions !actions now TheDemocrat | #3 Reply | Quote I am disappointed at abugidainfo for posting Tedla Asfaw’s “writing.” Tedla is known for his anti-UDJ stand. He sometimes writes some writings about woyane to look pro-opposition. Even this writing he says “those apologists who who are telling us that TPLF is not enemy let them go and pray for the longevity of their king and queen.” Who is he trying to insult in this sentence?

Beyene | #4 Reply | Quote Tedla Asfaw We all are bleeding Teddy is in prison. But Tedla’s bla bla … is disappointing. He disgracefully writes against a woman fighter while he supports another dictator called Hailu Shawl. I do not know why he shouts at one dictator system while he supports the Hailu backward and greed system. Teda, I hope you have mirros to look in to your self. Woleyew | #5 Reply | Quote Be in the look out, the Woyane cadres are creating rift among Ethiopians on ever forum they have no control over. The strategy is to make sure no one can challenge Woyane to surrender power. Any one who create rift with one or more Ethiopians is suspect. Olbemo | #6 Reply | Quote I WILL NO MORE COME TO THIS WEBSITE SO LONG IT ALLOWS PEOPLE LIKE TEDLA ASFAW ‘A HIDDEN CADRE’ OF THE ANTI-UDJ & ANTI-GENBOT 7. IF FREEDOM OF SPEECH IS MEANS OF DISINFORMING AND CREATING DIVISION, THEN TEDLA ASFAW IS THE MASTER OF IT. AS A RESULT, UNTIL THIS TYPE OF ACTORS DISALLOWED TO MANIPULATE, I WILL LET KNOW ALL FRIENDS OF ABUGIDA TO NOT VISIT THIS SITE FOR ITS INDIRECT SUPPORT TO MISINFORMERS, AND DIVISIVE SPREADERS. SHAME ABUGIDA, FOR MORE AND MORE BECOMING LIKE WALTA. OLBEMO ALEM | #7 Reply | Quote CAN SOME ONE HELP ME TO FIND TEDY CD WHERE HE TALKS ABOUT UNITY I PAY FOR IT AS MUCH AS I HEAT TO PAY FOR HIS DC Comments are closed. Woyanne sentences Teddy Afro to six years in jail – By Barry Malone(Reuters) Yes, Teddy is a Killer!! Search for: Famine in the Horn of Africa – @Harvard on Feb. 5, 2012 Abugida TV - 12-28-2011

Teddy Afro’s lawyer freed August 9, 2008 arefe Leave a comment Go to comments After an appeal to the Federal Higher Court, Teddy Afro’s lawyer, Million Assefa was released yesterday afternoon. The lawyer was sent to Kaliti prison on Wednesday with 50 days’ sentence for contempt of court. The Federal Higher Court suspended the sentence. While in prison, Million met Teddy Afro who was said to have wept when he saw him. Addis Neger this morning reported that Teddy who was in a solitary confinement has now moved to what is called Zone 5 where there are other inmates Advertisement Advertisement Like this: LikeBe the first to like this post. Categories: City Journal Comments (18) Trackbacks (3) Leave a comment Trackback Alex August 9, 2008 at 1:36 pm | #1 Reply | Quote We are organizing a rally /protest in front of Ethiopian Embassy August 29 from 10:00 Am -1:00 PM . We would like everybody to spread the news. moges December 10, 2008 at 1:24 am | #2 Reply | Quote hi.mybrother.tedy.ayzhe.lngasele yhlmale.teddyy.mogestadess.saudiarbia.mycountry.ethiopia.addisababa.pasa abde ebr February 2, 2009 at 8:25 am | #3 Reply | Quote free taddy free all ethiopian people woyna yetawen gef yebeka lamen ethiopian yebadelalu tade tefatena aydelem kem nw hulgeza ja-yestesrial taddy hulum saw yewadehal god kanta gar yehun ewenet tasahenafeleh hulgeza taddy……………………………….. lily February 3, 2009 at 6:44 am | #4 Reply | Quote Teddy nebse neger endet neh yethiopia hezeb mengizem kante gar new gegina yesew gegina malet ende simehem tewodros neh ayzoh ewnet ena negat hulgizem tekebro aykerem enewedehallen Teddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddy. mesafint February 4, 2009 at 12:01 pm | #5 Reply | Quote enie ye teddy adnakiw ney teddy betam newe miwedew i love you teddy seble February 11, 2009 at 8:38 am | #6 Reply | Quote Teddy afro is the best singer in our country and we all pray for you to realise from prision. and one day you will be out from prision if god will and you gonne perform your job after prision. bruk February 11, 2009 at 8:43 am | #7 Reply | Quote hi teddy how are you. ayzo one day ewnetu yewetal. God bless you!! Habiba February 13, 2009 at 4:00 pm | #8 Reply | Quote Teddeye ene kemadenekeme alefe betam newe yemafekereh eshi ayezoh anede kene ewenetu yewetale eshi. i know ur Ewenetegna sewe love u urs

Wub February 13, 2009 at 4:13 pm | #9 Reply | Quote Teddy betam newe yemadenekege, yemewedeke eshi “Hulu negere lebego newe” Ewenetegna sewe betasereme nesa newe. i miss so muchhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Weditigray February 19, 2009 at 6:04 am | #10 Reply | Quote Hello Teddy!!!! Do not worry. You will be released after some days not years. Anbesaneh eshi. Gegnaneh Like Alula. It is also sure there not be a country Eritrea after few years. Your dream will be achieved Berta. “Jigna Jigna Welidu!!!! ” yemilown ye Eritrea musica gabizeh aloh. maza MULUGETA February 19, 2009 at 7:54 am | #11 Reply | Quote HELLO TEDDY HOW ARE YOU I FILL EVERY TING OK DONT BE AFIRED OK BECOUSE GOD WITH YOU JUST WIAT Boss February 19, 2009 at 11:30 am | #12 Reply | Quote Hey darling Tedisha, You are simply phenomenon who will always be residing in the hearts of millions of people from all quarters of the globe.You have not only set the standard of music but also showed us what really love is!! I just feel fortunate to have been on earth in your time! God bless ethiopia and peace for the whole world!! estifanos March 1, 2009 at 5:47 pm | #13 Reply | Quote I love you teddy one day i blevi that you wiil be free and enjoy your life but i ask you to contnie your sturagel for peace in our country direshaye tadesse August 18, 2009 at 10:31 am | #14 Reply | Quote I love you teddy one day i blevi that you wiil be free and enjoy your life but i ask you to contnie your sturagel for peace in our country teddy is note present he is give for god kokebnesh menegsha August 18, 2009 at 10:33 am | #15 Reply | Quote You are simply phenomenon who will always be residing in the hearts of millions of people from all quarters of the globe.You have not only set the standard of music but also showed us what really love is!! samson August 21, 2009 at 6:06 pm | #16 Reply | Quote waw!!!! this really patriot of the Ethiopia. teddy u should do it this again let as fight for our freedom and one day u will be the right king of Ethiopia like the previous teddy!!!! yehenene yechaka tota anede kene tebekelew yehonale ayezoh ye ethio jegena anebesa teddy gena yekerehale teddy ketrelebete ayezoh engam kegoneh nene Amsalu Eshetu October 2, 2009 at 9:18 am | #17 Reply | Quote hulachinm enkuwan desi alen:from ganfur11@yahoo.com tanie miedzynarodowe October 8, 2009 at 8:13 pm | #18 Reply | Quote I am following most of your point and it will improved my work day by day. I bookmarked it.. If you like, you can also bookmark my webpage.Check my site out about at,

NEWS 06 August 2008 Ethiopia: Teddy Afro's trial takes a strange twist The defence lawyer of reggae singer Teddy Afro and an editor-in-chief of a local newspaper which interviewed the lawyer were arrested in Addis Ababa on 4 August 2008. The lawyer was convicted to 50 days in prison on 6 August. By Tsigue Shiferaw – Freemuse’s reporter in Addis Ababa The popular Ethiopian reggae star Teddy Afro is held in custody, charged with the death of Degu Yibeltal – a homeless young man who was killed in a car accident more than a year and half ago. In mid-July 2008, the newspaper Addis Neger published an interview with Teddy Afro's lawyer, Million Assefa. It was a the front page interview where Million Assefa told the newspaper that he was considering suing the judge of Teddy Afro's court case, Leul Gebremariam, for not letting him defend his client properly. Million Assefa was quoted as saying “that he was considering taking action against judge Leul Gebremariam on disciplinary ground.” One of the reasons for this was that in July, judge Leul Gebremariam of the Federal High Court ruled a verdict for singer Teddy Afro to defend himself against the prosecutors' charge that he had been involved in the death of Degu Yibeltal, and adjourned his case to 9 October 2008. Judge Leul Gebremariam held the newspaper's editor-in-chief, Mesfin Negash, as well as the defence lawyer responsible for the content of the interview and labelled it “contempt to the court”. The newspaper’s deputy editor was also arrested on 4 August. He was released again later the same day, while the lawyer and editor-in-chief remained in custody until — at a court hearing in the morning on 6 August 2008 — Million Assefa was found guilty of contempt of court and was sentenced to one month and 20 days in prison. Mesfin Negash, owner and editor-in-chief of Addis Neger, was released after the hearing on 6 August. Trial full of irregularities Prior to their first court hearing, on 5 August, I asked Million Assefa what he thought the judge had done wrong. Teddy Afro's court case “is abuse of power from single individuals,” he told me, adding that “Teddy Afro's trial was full of irregularities.” When they appeared in court in the morning on 5 August both the editor and the lawyer looked surprisingly relaxed after a night in prison. Teddy Afro has been held behind bars for over three months now. He is charged with the hit and run incident that occurred in November 2006. At the time the incident occurred he was detained briefly and released on a 50,000 birr bail, but then, on 16 April 2008, he was suddenly arrested again and taken to Kaliti prison facility, 25 kilometres out of the capital, suspected of killing the 18-year-old street boy. A taxi driver at the time allegedly tipped off the police to the license number of Teddy Afro’s BMW, which was later found in a ditch on the road towards the CMC residential area where the singer resides. Teddy Afro pleaded not guilty to driving without a license and to negligent driving. His trial has been accompanied by a large crowd of his fans, family and friends who all believe he is innocent, framed by the authorities in order to silence his critique of the regime.

Ethiopia’s pop music star Teddy Afro released August 13th, 2009 | | 38 Comments Georgia: Don't Buy Car Insurance Without This TrickADDIS ABABA — Ethiopia’s most famous singer Tewodros Kassahun (popularly known as Teddy Afro) has been released today after spending 16 months in jail. Teddy was sent to jail on trumped-up charges of hit-and-run accident and manslaughter, but the real reason for his arrest is that Meles Zenawi’s Woyanne tribal junta in Ethiopia did not like his songs that promote Ethiopian unity. Teddy was sentenced to 6 years in jail, but the high court reduced his sentence to 2 years. The Woyanne security released Teddy one day earlier from the scheduled date of August 14 so that there will not be any crowd awaiting him outside the Kality prison. The Woyanne-controlled ETV greeted him outside and interviewed him. The interview was aired tonight on ETV. Teddy Afro jail term cutPosted on February 19th, 2009 at 3:04 am by Editor 5 Posted 19th February 2009 Abbay Media Editor’s Note It is a well known fact that Teddy Afro is innocent and is being imprisoned solely for political reasons. The innocence of Teddy Afro can simply be proven by looking the fabricated evidence Weyane provided against the artist. Teddy should not have been imprison in the first place and should be FREED immediately. Today’s development in his case is an attempt by Weyane to claim that there is an independent judiciary system in Ethiopia. Ethiopians and International Human Rights activists know the true nature of the kangaroo court’s and how it get used by the dictatorial regime of Meles Zenawi. Irrespective of the circumstance, the new development is good news for our artist Teddy Afro, which will enable him to come out sooner from the dungeons of Weyane. Ethiopian pop star Teddy Afro released from prison Last Updated: Sunday, August 16, 2009 | 11:18 AM ET CBC News Related Internal Links Top Ethiopian pop star jailed 6 years for hit and runOne of Ethiopia's most popular pop singers, Teddy Afro, has been released early from a prison in Addis Ababa for good behaviour. Teddy Afro, whose real name is Tewodros Kassahun, was sentenced for the 2006 death of a homeless man in a hit-and-run incident. The 31-year-old singer has repeatedly denied driving the car and his supporters allege the performer was the target of a political vendetta. 'I would like to express my respect and gratitude to all the people of our country.'

—Teddy AfroKassahun's lyrics often criticize the government. He is popular among young Ethiopians and sings mostly in the local Amharic language. "I would like to express my respect and gratitude to all the people of our country," he told local TV. "I was able to meet many good people in prison, from the lowest-ranking policeman to the highest administrator. "I had a nice time. My relations with other prisoners were also good." Hundreds protested outside the court during his trial in 2008. His original sentence of six years was cut down to two years in February after his lawyer argued that the victim had been drunk and was lying unconscious on road when he was hit. The singer had already served 16 months in jail upon his release. Prison officials quietly let him out on Thursday ahead of the reported Friday release in order to avoid any crowds gathering at the jail. Ethiopia's Teddy Afro Receives Joyous Welcome By Eden Habtamu, Ezega News By Elizabeth Blunt BBC News, Addis Ababa Addis Ababa, August 14, 2009 (Ezega.com) -- Unlike many ordinary days W/o Tilaye Arage’s (mother of Teddy Afro) house is crowded, full of families, relatives, fans and neighbors, to welcome the famous young artist Tewdros Kassahun commonly known as “Teddy-Afro”. When the reporter of Ezega news, Eden Habtamu, reached the residence of Teddy Afro’s mom near St. Gabriel Hospital, at around 2:00pm local time, the area around the main gate was packed by vehicles. People were going into the compound hurriedly, with most of them not interested in leaving the compound. When I got into the door, three young men who were coming out of the compound, made me laugh by saying “ we have been waiting for you for so long but, he just left now…” as they figured out that I was rushing to meet him also. The compound was packed by more than one hundred people – people who do not seem to be close family members, since most of the family members were inside the house cheering and cherishing this moment. There were tables outdoors with buckets of beautiful flowers for the incoming guests as the family assumed the house may not be enough to accommodate all guests. There was a long banner above the “French” window that reads “Welcome home Teddy ”.

Most of the ladies wore traditional dresses and expressed their gratefulness for Teddy’s release by saying “Elelelele…” His sisters and relatives were busy serving lunch, soft drinks and coffee for every guest whom they knew or never met before. Many people made the artist busy by asking lots of questions and requesting to be photographed with him. Everyone seems to be in some small wedding party without a bride, as the groom is kissed and hugged by everyone all day. Though Teddy appears to be very exhausted, he tried his best to be part of his “welcome home party”. He welcomed and thanked everyone who came to his mother’s place. One thing that I found very interesting was that he was just saying “okay” to everyone and all kinds of questions, trying to satisfy everyone at the same time. He appears to have gained a bit of weight, although some of his fans I met in his mom’s house told me that he had gained more than this in prison and this is just his normal weight. I had to wait until he got some three minutes for my questions, but I found it impossible to talk with him without interruption, as he was terribly busy and exhausted by everyone’s questions. He told Ezega.com that he is very thankful for all his fans, families and relatives who have been visiting and comforting him for the past 18 months in custody. He also said that he learned a lot on how to live with different people in such a difficult circumstance. Finally, he passed his gratitude to everyone with a very reserved and tired tone, as he has been through many questions from people inside the house, interviews from governmental and private media, and pausing for photo with almost everyone. Meskerem Negussie, a high school teacher whom I met in the “welcome home party”, told me that this moment has a special meaning for her and many other fans of “Teddy Afro”. She told me that she truly likes Teddy Afro because she believes he is smart, creative and a person with integrity and humbleness. She enjoys his music more than other Amharic music. She told me that she had visited him many times while he was in custody and she is very glad that she became part of this moment. It is to be recalled that Teddy Afro spent the past 18 month in prison, serving a two-year sentence for a hit and run accident that killed a homeless man named Degu Yibelete in Addis Ababa in 2007. _____________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________ This article was written by Eden Habtamu reporting for Ezega.com from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She can be reached by email at News@Ezega.com. The article can be reprinted in full or in part elsewhere but only by giving full credit to Ezega. If reprinted on a website, we ask that you place this active link: Ezega Ethiopian News, pointing to http://www.Ezega.com.

Famous Ethiopian singer has jail term cut ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) – Ethiopia’s most famous pop star, Teddy Afro, had his hit-and-run manslaughter jail sentence cut to two years from six by an appeal court Wednesday. The singer, whose real name is Tewodros Kassahun and who is known for belting out lyrics critical of the government, was convicted in December last year of killing an 18-year-old homeless man while driving in the capital Addis Ababa in 2007. Afro has always denied he was in the car. Appeal Judge Dagne Melaku maintained that Afro was guilty but said the victim had been drunk and was lying unconscious on the road when he was hit by the performer’s car. Melaku added that the police had failed to move the victim to a safer place. The singer has been in prison for almost a year and could be free in less than 12 months, once time served and good behavior are taken into account. Afro is hugely popular among young Ethiopians and sings mainly in the local Amharic language. As with all of Afro’s previous court appearances, small groups of young fans gathered on the streets surrounding the courthouse Wednesday awaiting the appeal verdict. Hundreds protested outside the court when his trial began in April — an unusual event in a country where dissent is rare. The pop star’s songs have been used as protest anthems by opposition supporters who have taken to the streets and his fans believe his conviction was motivated by his music. Afro’s last album, Yasteseryal (Redemption), coincided with Ethiopia’s 2005 election, which led to violent protests and the jailing of opposition leaders. Opposition politicians in Ethiopia have accused the government of clamping down on dissent ahead of parliamentary elections due next year. Source: Reuters

Teddy Afro, our symbol of unity and tolerance! – Tedla Asfaw December 5th, 2008 Print Email “Go out !!! otherwise, I will give you the maximum punishment”, the TPLF made theater stage director, Cadre Leiul Gebre Mariam /Gebre Seitan screamed after sending Teddy Afro to six years to jail and pay 18,000 Birr as bonus for Gebre Seitan wonderful “Broadway” show that ended on this Black Friday, Dec. 5, 2008. Let the celebration begun in TPLF’s camp for their successful show that culminated by sending Teddy Afro, the voice and symbol of Ethiopia to their dark cell hoping Ethiopians will forget him like they forgot many patriots Ethiopians before. However, this time is different. Teddy’s songs are now the rallying cry for Ethiopians and our young generations showed us the glimpse of what to come on last month Great Run, “Talaku Rucha” after paying 40 Birr to get a spot. “Teddy Obama, Meles Asama/Hippo” , that was the rallying cry chanted by thousands on the streets of Addis Ababa. Political rally is a crime in Ethiopia and that is why the Great Run is billed as “Talaku Rucha, Bisote Megletchia” in Amharic meaning “The Great Run, platform to speak our minds”, and that is how young, old Ethiopians showed to the world what the so called trial of Teddy Afro has been all about for the last eight months, a sham circus and a conspiracy by those “Asamas”/hippos who are eating everything on their way including their loved singer, Teddy Afro. Teddy Afro is now a martyr and a symbol of Ethiopia and the Ethiopian masses have to pray for him in churches and mosques. This young man’s song for tolerance among Ethiopian Christians and Muslims, nationalities not to fall to the trap of hate propaganda by the TPLF’s hippos for the last eighteen years was a remarkable achievement no prison can take it from us. Locking Teddy in jail will not stop the resistance movement and those apologists who are telling us that TPLF is not enemy let them go and pray for the longevity of their king and queen. Queen Azeb Mesfin avenged the humiliation she received in America when she came for an “award” few years ago by orchestrating the hit-and-run show to its successful end. She can now sleep good listening to Teddy Afro songs. It is true, the queen is not listening to Bob Marley’s, “No woman No cry”, because this time the one crying is Teddy’s mother and millions of his admirers. It is indeed today is a day of crying in Ethiopia and also a call for more martyrs to carry the Ethiopian flag until freedom. Comments (7) Dubale | #1 Reply | Quote Tedla Asfaw We know now who you are. You are crying crocodile tear for Teddy because he is no leading a party. But you stongly hate the equally or more fighter Birtukan. Furthermore, try to learn how to write before your start writing. Thanks abdul | #2 Reply | Quote We are all oppostions diapsoras political forces??? .You should call a peace protest about Human rights in Ethiopia .stop writting and crying in websites and pal-talks. Actions !actions now TheDemocrat | #3 Reply | Quote I am disappointed at abugidainfo for posting Tedla Asfaw’s “writing.” Tedla is known for his anti-UDJ stand. He sometimes writes some writings about woyane to look pro-opposition. Even this writing he says “those apologists who who are telling us that TPLF is not enemy let them go and pray for the longevity of their king and queen.” Who is he trying to insult in this sentence?

Beyene | #4 Reply | Quote Tedla Asfaw We all are bleeding Teddy is in prison. But Tedla’s bla bla … is disappointing. He disgracefully writes against a woman fighter while he supports another dictator called Hailu Shawl. I do not know why he shouts at one dictator system while he supports the Hailu backward and greed system. Teda, I hope you have mirros to look in to your self. Woleyew | #5 Reply | Quote Be in the look out, the Woyane cadres are creating rift among Ethiopians on ever forum they have no control over. The strategy is to make sure no one can challenge Woyane to surrender power. Any one who create rift with one or more Ethiopians is suspect. Olbemo | #6 Reply | Quote I WILL NO MORE COME TO THIS WEBSITE SO LONG IT ALLOWS PEOPLE LIKE TEDLA ASFAW ‘A HIDDEN CADRE’ OF THE ANTI-UDJ & ANTI-GENBOT 7. IF FREEDOM OF SPEECH IS MEANS OF DISINFORMING AND CREATING DIVISION, THEN TEDLA ASFAW IS THE MASTER OF IT. AS A RESULT, UNTIL THIS TYPE OF ACTORS DISALLOWED TO MANIPULATE, I WILL LET KNOW ALL FRIENDS OF ABUGIDA TO NOT VISIT THIS SITE FOR ITS INDIRECT SUPPORT TO MISINFORMERS, AND DIVISIVE SPREADERS. SHAME ABUGIDA, FOR MORE AND MORE BECOMING LIKE WALTA. OLBEMO ALEM | #7 Reply | Quote CAN SOME ONE HELP ME TO FIND TEDY CD WHERE HE TALKS ABOUT UNITY I PAY FOR IT AS MUCH AS I HEAT TO PAY FOR HIS DC Comments are closed. Woyanne sentences Teddy Afro to six years in jail – By Barry Malone(Reuters) Yes, Teddy is a Killer!! Search for: Famine in the Horn of Africa – @Harvard on Feb. 5, 2012 Abugida TV - 12-28-2011

Tadias Magazine Events News Updated: Thursday, December 31, 2009 Washington, D.C. (Tadias) – Ethiopian pop-icon Teddy Afro will make a special appearance on New Year’s eve at the Embassy Suites in Washington DC, according to the promoters. The singer, who has been dubbed “Ethiopia’s Bob Marley” and the voice of “Ethiopia’s conscience,” will host the midnight toast. The event will include a screening of of DICk Clark’s “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2010? and the live countdown from Times Square. Teddy Afro, who was freed early from prison in August after serving 18 months of a two-year sentence for a hit-and-run incident, is scheduled to give a solo concert at the DC Armory on January 2, 2010. Video:Teddy Afro live concert (San Jose, California – 2007) If you go: Date: New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2009 Location: Embassy Suites, 900 10th Street, NW, Washington DC 20001 ShareThis 27 Responses to “Party Like It’s 2010 With Teddy Afro” Feed for this Entry Trackback Address -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Mama Afriqa Dec 24th, 2009 at 4:00 pm Will be at New Year’s eve party for sure to toast the 2010 with Teddy! Where in D.C. is the concert though on Jan 2? Happy Holidays everybody! 2 Simeon Dec 24th, 2009 at 11:51 pm What the heck is this poster about Teddy Afro’s concert in DC.? I hate it. COME ON Habesha Guys and Gals, you can do better than that! 3 Tezu Dec 25th, 2009 at 6:41 pm I believe the concert is @ the DC Armory 4 germa Dec 26th, 2009 at 8:46 am Teddy Afro as Michel Jackson?? You must be joking. Its more like Bob Marley. 5 DJ Mamush Kasi Dec 26th, 2009 at 12:08 pm

Teddy is da man! He is the MJ of Ethiopia, Bob Marley of Ethiopia and some. Heck he is also the Elvis Presley of Ethiopia. If there is some body big out there, then he is it for Ethiopia. Go, Teddy! Go, Teddy! Go, Teddy! Clap everybody!!! I am out, Love you! 6 Mimi Dec 27th, 2009 at 12:14 pm We love you Teddy! 7 Mike Z Dec 28th, 2009 at 11:17 am I will definately be there on the new years eve party and the concert too. 8 ermias Dec 28th, 2009 at 2:15 pm I am living in Addis. I am not able to see Teddy’s concert in D.C. But I feel it!!!! Good luck Teddy 9 juju Dec 28th, 2009 at 8:19 pm Is the concert over 18? {AGE}? 10 Titi Dec 29th, 2009 at 11:14 am Teddye, Thank god the past is now behind us. I am so grateful that you are back with us Teddye. The sun is shining again and back to our regular concert! See you New Year’s eve 2010!!!! Keep Ethiopia Alive!!! Love you. 11 Sam Dec 29th, 2009 at 4:37 pm I was one of the few people who attended Teddy Afro’s show on New Year’s Day in Washington, DC. Lack of space had sent many people back home. I hope those who missed Teddy would have a chance to see him again. I have heard there were people who cried because they were turned back. The organizing and marketing of the show has had serious problems. Teddy’s shows deserve to be organized in bigger convention centers and arenas next time around. 12 Estifanos Dec 29th, 2009 at 4:55 pm I will be there with my girl! We’ll be driving from Columbus, Ohio!!! Happy new year!! Many blessings in 2010~ 13 hiwote Dec 29th, 2009 at 7:29 pm i will be there but he better play yasiteseryal with full lyrics…without taking any word out. see you all there 14 Lawgaw

Dec 30th, 2009 at 12:34 am I will be there driving from New York. My first time to see teddy face to face and there should be no limit on age. otherwise, i am going back, can’t wait. 15 KOKEB Dec 30th, 2009 at 9:43 am Thank u TEDDY. 16 Ye Tedi adnaki Dec 31st, 2009 at 12:27 pm HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Brothers i’m getting two conflicting news. Is he going to play two places at the same time? Teddy Afro Live In Concert, DC Armory, Washington, DC Sat, Jan 2, 2010 07:00 PM ——————— 17 azeb06 Dec 31st, 2009 at 9:34 pm Happy New Year !! I will be there Teddy Afro Concert at Sat, jan 2, 2010 18 Ethio Promotion Jan 1st, 2010 at 1:03 pm TEddy Afro will be in Atlanta, GA on Sunday Jan. 17/2010 Be ready to rock with him! the best concert hall in GA, @Atlanta Peach hall! Advance tickets are on sale 19 Tedy Akalu Jan 1st, 2010 at 8:55 pm WE love u Tedy!!!We gonna dance wiz u even after the new year. 20 Guest Jan 2nd, 2010 at 6:25 pm he’s gonna rock dmv! 21 Habesh Jan 4th, 2010 at 2:54 pm I was embarrassed to be an Ethiopian at this concert. The abesha guys were either, pushing, harassing or bugging women all over the arena. It was a disaster and a waste of $50. Habesha women will never enjoy these shows unless, or men learn to respect women, and also learn to handle their alcohol. Until, then I’ll be listening to Teddy from the safety and comfort of my own home. 22 Lawgaw Jan 4th, 2010 at 7:56 pm It was the best concert! i really had a great time except waiting for a taxi for an hour.

23 wagaye Jan 11th, 2010 at 6:07 am dear teddy how are you? you are very nice and handsome man. please do everything with God and Maryame it means without God life is empty. so party to God when doing your song. beka ewdhalu 24 Crystal Feb 15th, 2010 at 6:12 pm I was in Ethiopia. ! and I missed him in Addis b/c I was in Shashemane and didn’t know until too late… how bad can my luck get. when is the next one here in Washington ? 25 derick Aug 17th, 2010 at 6:11 am im the one who misses teddy’s concerts in everywhere ,you know why ? because im so broke on and on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 26 Daniel Mann Jul 15th, 2011 at 12:47 pm This is Daniel Mann worlds only juggling taxi driver. YouTube : Teddy Afro Vegas. You see a white taxi driver and 3 passengers that’s Daniel Mann. 27 Queen of Ethiopia Jul 15th, 2011 at 1:05 pm Daniel, That was very very funny. My stomach is hurting from laughing so shard. Thanks for sharing. Teddy Afro rocked Ethiopia’s capital Sunday night October 12th, 2009 | | 20 Comments Details are still coming from Ethiopian Review sources in Addis Ababa regarding Teddy Afro’s concert last night. By some estimate, tens of thousands of Addis Ababa residents attended the show. The photo below tells it all. The concert ended with no major incident, but some wondered if it was an entertainment event or a political rally. Others are heard asking how did Woyanne allow Teddy to organize such a big event right under its nose. Was there some kind of deal between Woyanne and Teddy Afro’s managers for Teddy to stay clear of any thing that may antagonize the vampires in power? We are digging into that. Until then let’s just say that Teddy did not disappoint the audience with his magnificent performance. Sunday’s night event was the mother of all concerts for Addis Ababa. [read more in Amharic here] Overstock 52" Sony LED TVOverstock 52" Sony LED TVGet a 52" Sony LED TV for $32.64. Limit One Per Day. Grab Yours Now. >> The Best Online Backup-Bonus Savings 20% Today!Award Winning Backup Save 20%4 Time PC Mag Award Winner. PC, Mac, iPhone, Facebook, iPad, Android. Starting as low as $4.33/month

Email This Post | FORUM | 20 Comments Related Posts 1.Over 100,000 expected to show up for Teddy Afro concert2.Ethiopia’s king of pop Teddy Afro to be released on August 153.Ethiopia’s pop music star Teddy Afro released4.Teddy Afro’s lawyer freed5.Teddy Afro to be sent to the notorious Ziway Prison 20 Comments to “Teddy Afro rocked Ethiopia’s capital Sunday night”1.chane says: what can we say …. He did it again… he is gifted, loved and adored by Millions and he is a voice of Ethiopia wow wow, im just short of words…. by the way i wonder what other artists feels right now? heck who cars they didnt do shiit when he was locked up … except HAB ENGIDAW who dedicated the song for Teddy “Mindinew Gudu” Anyways God Bless u Teddy and pls come to DC we are waiting for uu [Reply] October 12th, 2009 at 1:02 PM 2.Asaye says: Wow, a great news! It looks like Addis was out having fun. In deed the picture tells it all. Nice to see such a diverse group having fun in peace, young men and women, even a country man with a stick. [Reply] October 12th, 2009 at 1:44 PM 3.bonga says: Hi, people don’t be exited for everything, u know we lost our king(Tilahun),so we have to crown somebody to replace.Therefore all that peole isn’t just only for the song it’s also celebrate the new king of song of Ethiopia. Understand??????? BYE…….. [Reply] October 12th, 2009 at 2:21 PM 4.Anonymous says: ye tewodros wede alem temelso megbat yasazenal engji ayasdestem ene bebekule geta besu laye telek sera endalew new yemisemagne sew nebsun agudelo alemen biyaterf mene yetekemewal bibel zefagne mengest semayen aywersem yelal ena wendemochena ehetoche ye eyesus memcha ken eyederese new nege yenante aydelechem bible yemedan ken zare new yelal selezeh selemayereba destan lemayset menamente alem kemaseb lezelalemawew hiwotchew asebu yeyesus deme eyechoh new ebakachu geta yewdachoal selam eyesus new !tebareku [Reply] October 12th, 2009 at 2:30 PM 5.Anonymous says: It is AMAZING!!!!! Thank YOU God!! Thank You God!!!!!!

The office of Bereket Simeon used to ordered ETV for useless ,unpopular shows like,the show of Beyonce. But,the didn’t permit their ETV (WTV) to transmit this amazing show for the people unable to attend in person.. ayi ETV ye Bereket ayinet wurgat yichawetibih!! Anyways,Although,other Ethiopian in Nazereth,Assela,Awassa ,Jimma,Bahirdar and,,,,unable to watch this historic show,We feel pride that our people and our hero,Teddy has strengthen more and more!! Thank you God!! please keep alive our unity and strength for ever!! Damn to Bereket and his ETV and his Boss Meles! [Reply] October 12th, 2009 at 3:23 PM 6.MerhaBete says: Welcome back to the stage Teddy! Tens of thousands of youngsters turned out to say long live to Teddy. Thirsty of Teddy’s music Addis Abebans enjoyed the entertainment, no matter how his adversaries think and speculate. Long live Ethiopia! [Reply] October 12th, 2009 at 3:33 PM 7.amlack yifred says: Thank God, he came out of there alive. I wonder how many unknown innocent Ethiopians went in to Wooyane prison and did not come out of there alive. It sad that this man wasted more than a year of his life in Wooyan prison for loving his country, for inspiring Ethiopians with his songs and his deeds, and for helping poor Ethiopians. I wish him all the best and to continue to inspire Ethiopians with his songs. Sing Teddy, sing again about ONE ETHIOPIA! May God watch over you. [Reply] October 12th, 2009 at 5:02 PM 8.To ER says: Dear ER, Would you please post some video clips? Thanks [Reply] October 12th, 2009 at 5:45 PM 9.yared says: OMG I wish i was in addis. i cant wait to c him in LA. Good job Teddy Afro!!! [Reply]

October 13th, 2009 at 1:28 AM 10.Unityyyy says: My innate tells me that eventhough the people love Teddy very much, the 100 thousands are out not only in support of Teddy but also to show their immense hatred towards the dictator regime which killed the economy, democracy and above all the UNITY of the people. Teddy= love, …, UNITY Death to Weyane Unity Firrst [Reply] October 13th, 2009 at 1:30 AM 11.kebede says: teddy afro rocks!!!!!!!!!!!! [Reply] October 13th, 2009 at 6:51 AM 12.some 1 says: The 4th comment is very much annoying. Tewodros is the voice of the voiceless and he is singing for his people, his country and the helpless. He adores his people and the country. He sings for democracy, respect for human rights and justice. His sings for reconsilation, peace and security. He also adores God. Thus, he is better than any person claiming to be a ‘Criastian’ and who simply tries to preach the good of God but doing nothing on the ground, who does not care about the suffering of the people. Please do not try to claim that ‘Mengiste Semeyat’ is/would be owned by people who are like you. If you donot like to participate in ‘alemawi’ practice, although you do in a wrong way, you should not have read this news. With respect to the editor, I am not wondering why you suspecting the relationship of Teddy with the ‘Ethiopian Government’. Even me, I wonder how he is allowed to gather this number of people. Let God with him to keep his independence and continue to be a voice of his people. The Editor, I know your startegy of supporting the Eritrean leader. For you, the enemy of the current government, who ever he is good to work with. However, (1) the current Ethiopian leader is more Eritrean than the Eritrean leader himself and we do not know what they are doing behind the people. (2). The sources of all the problems of Ethiopia emantes with Shabia, which has been organizing and manupulating different parties to disintegrate Ethiopia and the Ethiopian people. Any ‘solution’ which comes and be ‘supported’ from Eritrean leaders is to meant for removing Ethiopia and its people from the World. Please, please, please unless you have your own personal problem, try to support strategic view that adresses the problem of the Ethiopian people from the source. Try to use your capacity to be part of a group that could mobilize people abroad having different views and parties to come together and come up with a strategy that would give all people better off even if their individual interest is compromised. Under the current strategy, only the current rulers are benefiting while the people are fighting each other for nothing tangible or selfish intrest that may not be practically achivable or achieved with a possible time bomb for the future generation. God bless this poor country. [Reply] October 13th, 2009 at 9:10 AM 13.Sophanit says:

The 4th comment is very much annoying. Tewodros is the voice of the voiceless and he is singing for his people, his country and the helpless. He adores his people and the country. He sings for democracy, respect for human rights and justice. His sings for reconsilation, peace and security. He also adores God. Thus, he is better than any person claiming to be a ‘Criastian’ and who simply tries to preach the good of God but doing nothing on the ground, who does not care about the suffering of the people. Please do not try to claim that ‘Mengiste Semeyat’ is/would be owned by people who are like you. If you donot like to participate in ‘alemawi’ practice, although you do in a wrong way, you should not have read this news. With respect to the editor, I am not wondering why you suspecting the relationship of Teddy with the ‘Ethiopian Government’. Even me, I wonder how he is allowed to gather this number of people. Let God with him to keep his independence and continue to be a voice of his people. The Editor, I know your startegy of supporting the Eritrean leader. For you, the enemy of the current government, who ever he is good to work with. However, (1) the current Ethiopian leader is more Eritrean than the Eritrean leader himself and we do not know what they are doing behind the people. (2). The sources of all the problems of Ethiopia emantes with Shabia, which has been organizing and manupulating different parties to disintegrate Ethiopia and the Ethiopian people. Any ‘solution’ which comes and be ‘supported’ from Eritrean leaders is to meant for removing Ethiopia and its people from the World. Please, please, please unless you have your own personal problem, try to support strategic view that adresses the problem of the Ethiopian people from the source. Try to use your capacity to be part of a group that could mobilize people abroad having different views and parties to come together and come up with a strategy that would give all people better off even if their individual interest is compromised. Under the current strategy, only the current rulers are benefiting while the people are fighting each other for nothing tangible or selfish intrest that may not be practically achivable or achieved with a possible time bomb for the future generation. God bless this poor country. [Reply] October 13th, 2009 at 9:34 AM 14.sugar MwT says: I am so happy he is doing what he wanted to do.He is such an inspirational superstar who is a role model.I just hope he takes care of himself by stayin away from things that could help people hurt him.He should be aware that God is not gonna come down and take care of him.And I hope he finds a lovely and loyal wife and start a family. [Reply] October 13th, 2009 at 10:01 AM 15.Melat says: Anbesa Teddy! lela min yigeltsehal! Hule birhan hun. [Reply] October 13th, 2009 at 10:24 AM 16.Anonymous says: comment 4 pls go to ur place. we all are normal people who like to appreciate positive things ….u don’t even know ur self eko beshek! [Reply] October 13th, 2009 at 11:34 PM 17.Anonymous says:

well-done Tedy! We love you! Alemu [Reply] October 14th, 2009 at 12:29 PM 18.Martha says: I just saw Teddy in Dubai last night and he was AMAZING! Just uploading some video clips from the concert on my blog – please check it out: http://justmarthatv.blogspot.com/ [Reply] October 17th, 2009 at 3:35 PM 19.Thiinker says: wtf is wrong with the guy who gave comment 4. first of all this aint u place man!!! and second pllzzz don’t think in one direction … shokaka,shutam neger adebabay witana chuh bezi soundih . Teddy is an awesome and brilliant guy man he did it. [Reply] October 23rd, 2009 at 12:29 PM 20.Andinet says: The concert remind me so many things, it reminds me kinigit marching people. Look our people I feel very sad they are under the bandage of the government they need change like usa people. we need Ethiopian obama. Teddy God bless you. you will be on the history book. we never forget you, but don’t be change like those politicians. stay strong.God bless Ethio. »Teddy Afro«Teddy Afro impress fans in London December 29, 2009 43 Abbay Media | London; Artist Tewedros Kashun , also known as Teddy Afro, one of Ethiopia’s most popular and talented artist, gave a spectacular concert in London last Saturday. In his last stop on his 2009 European tour, Teddy Afro expressed gratitude and respect for his fans, who stood beside him while he was in [...] Phenomenal Teddy concert in Ethiopia buries ethnic slurs October 16, 2009 4 Makonnen Ittafa | JT guest writer Thousands of Ethiopians attended the latest incredible concert by the popular Ethiopian singer Teddy Afro but some fans were reminded of the tense ethno-political situation in the country with an earful of racist remarks from opposition supporters. Teddy, whose real name is Tewodros Kassahun, was freed from prison in [...] Teddy Afro: The invincible messenger October 14, 2009 7 By Abebe Gellaw There are some people blessed with an unbreakable spirit. They can turn adversities into triumph and setbacks into progress. These kinds of people have a deeper understanding of life as a rollercoaster with ups and downs, turns and twists, gains and lose, defeats and victories…. They take times of sadness, grief, illnesses, [...] Ethiopian rocker swaps prison cell for spotlight October 12, 2009 6 ADDIS ABABA (AFP) – When Teddy Afro leaps onto the stage the crowd goes wild, clapping in

the air and singing along with the man seen by many as the voice of Ethiopia’s conscience. Fresh from his prison cell, the singer known as Ethiopia’s Michael Jackson delighted tens of thousands of fans with his benefit [...] Teddy Afro can return to what he does best, at a price August 20, 2009 2 An Ethiopian singer freed, Movement of Jah people Aug 20th 2009 | NAIROBI From The Economist print edition The country’s Bob Marley can return to what he does best, at a price IT WAS a euphoric week for younger Ethiopians. The country’s great long-distance runner, Kenenisa Bekele, ran down an Eritrean rival to win gold [...] Ethiopia’s Pop Star Out of Jail, to Stage Big Concert August 20, 2009 5 By Omer Redi ADDIS ABABA , Aug 19 (IPS) – He has not yet decided where and when it will be, but Ethiopia’s sensational musician Tewodros Kassahun a.k.a. Teddy-Afro, will stage a major concert for the first time after his release from controversial imprisonment. Tewodros is famous and sensational for his strong lyrics; including some [...] Pop star Teddy Afro freed from jail in Ethiopia August 14, 2009 9 ETV Interview with Teddy ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) – Ethiopia’s most popular singer, Teddy Afro, was freed early from prison on Thursday after serving 18 months of a two-year sentence for hit-and-run manslaughter. The performer, whose real name is Tewodros Kassahun, was found guilty of killing an 18-year-old homeless man while driving his BMW in the [...] Teddy Afro to leave jail next month July 17, 2009 18 By arefe | 16, July 2009 It was a foggy and gloomy day in Addis yet news that brightened the day just came. Ethiopian popular singer Teddy Afro is getting out of jail in July or August after the Appeal Court of Cassation this morning decided to maintain the two year sentence given by the [...] No final word for Teddy Afro July 6, 2009 6 The popular Ethiopian singer Teddy Afro has appeared before Court of Cassation on 2nd July 2009 to hear a decision on an appeal filed by the prosecutor protesting the reduction of his prison terms from six to two years. But Teddy left the courtroom without hearing a final word and his case was adjourned for [...] Video : Teddy Afro for Fasika April 19, 2009 5 Posted 19th April 2009 Video courtesy of ethiofilm1 (Youtube) ……………………………………. Return Back to: ABBAY MEDIA FRONT PAGE The sensational singer Teddy Afro does it again August 28 Posted by: Bini | 28-08-2010, 14:15 | The seasonal singer Teddy Afro does it again By Alemayehu Seife-Selassie Just last month the sensational singer Teddy Afro announced, during a radio interview, that he is

now working on a new album that is scheduled to come out in four months' time. Releasing three new singles earlier than the announced time was something audiences never anticipated. Click Here to Listen all New Singles The new singles were first heard publicly Saturday last week on Ethiopicalink FM 98.1. “Ever since we played it over the radio on Saturday, we’ve been getting lots of requests to play it again. People even come to the station, our office and ask us for the CD,” said Birhane Negussie, the radio host of Ethiopicalink. Birhane went on to say that Teddy dropped the CD off at their studio and they have been getting showered with requests ever since. According to him, the singles are expected to be available on CD free of charge after the sponsorship deal is finalized. Until then, however, audiences can stay tuned and enjoy them over the radio. Click Here to Listen all New Singles A radio DJ from Sheger FM 102.1 added how his station has also been receiving countless requests for the latest singles. The most requested of the three being Teddy’s original, Selam, which is said to be more popular in its contents. The other two are Wolo, originally created by Bahiru Kagne, and Zelesegna, a public song. One notable lyric in Selam reflects Teddy’s artistic approach, it writes, “It is better to die than live in shame. I would rather lose money than lose consciousness; I will not make money selling my pride.” Other requests the station frequently receives include Bezawit Zeleke’s Menor and Jemeriaylew and Yismalem Berega’s Amrobish. Despite the two singles being released some time ago, they are still getting significant attention. Teddy Afro is well-known for releasing highly seasonal sentimental singles. The single he wrote and performed overnight, Anbesa Kenenisa [a sentimental song that narrates the substitution of athlete Haile Gebreselassie by his successor Kenenisa Bekele on the 10,000 meters world Olympics], is such an example. Teddy is most recognized for his two major hit albums: Abogida and Jah Yasteseriyal. The latter was released during the time of Ethiopia’s controversial election, five years ago. In his album title song Jah Yasteseriyal, the artist criticized the government for failing to bring change, and discussed how the public was confused from the provocative election debates. In another song from the album, he told the story of a family that was torn up as a result of the war that broke out between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Teddy’s songs, although very popular, have been banned from being played on local radios. Many DJs in clubs have said they were afraid to play the songs, despite the positive response the songs receive from fans. Click Here to Listen all New Singles The controversial artist was sent to jail after he released a single that expressed the joyous mood among the public following the release of the opposition leaders. Some time later, however, Teddy was imprisoned for a hit-and-run traffic accident. Despite shady evidence, he was found guilty and released in less than two years. After his release, the artist gave a press conference explaining his intention to perform a concert in Addis Ababa. However, he declined to comment on whether or not he had been forced to refrain from singing songs critical of the government. Teddy performed a successful concert for a large audience at the heavily-guarded Addis Ababa Stadium. Though he was, though, subject to criticism by some for refraining from singing his more controversial lines.

Click Here to Listen all New Singles EthiopianReporter Photos: Ebullient Teddy Afro Celebrates 34th Birthday During NYC Show Published by Tadias July 19th, 2010 in Events, Featured, Interviews and News. 21 Comments Above: Teddy received birthday cheers from his fans during his sold-out concert in New York on July 17, 2010 — Tadias. Tadias Magazine Events News – Photos by Kidane Mariam Published: Monday, July 19, 2010 New York (Tadias) – Teddy Afro celebrated his 34th birthday during his sold-out show in New York this past weekend. The artist, who treated the audience to a spectacular show on Saturday night, was greeted by his adoring fans with a chorus of “Happy Birthday” as he kicked-off his concert after midnight. Organizers say between 800 – 1,000 people attended the event. A number of people also stood outside unable to find tickets. Teddy Afro kept his audience rocking for over three hours with powerful renditions of his iconic songs and his trademark message of love and unity: Fiqir Yashenifal – Amharic for “love wins.” Ethiopia’s biggest pop-star also took the opportunity to introduce the founders of Color Heritage Apparel, which specializes in Reggae and Ethiopian wear, and announced a possible collaboration to develop a Teddy Afro clothing line down the road. Winston Jack, the head of the fashion company tells Tadias Magazine that they are exploring the idea but nothing is finalized yet. “It is still in the early stages of discussion,” he said. “We will announce it through a press release when it happens.” Here are a few images from Teddy Afro’s concert in Manhattan, which took place at 630 Second Ave. on July 17, 2010. ShareThis 21 Responses to “Photos: Ebullient Teddy Afro Celebrates 34th Birthday During NYC Show” Feed for this Entry Trackback Address -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Girma Jul 19th, 2010 at 1:30 pm This was a FANTABULOUS show!!!! I love you Teddy Afro!! 2 Hewan Jul 19th, 2010 at 1:39 pm Happy-Birthday Teddy!!! Looking forward to the clothing-line. Hope it will include women fashion. 3 Beneyam Jul 19th, 2010 at 5:47 pm What a great time it was!!! Teddy Afro, you rock, my man!!

4 Monica Ephrem Jul 19th, 2010 at 6:54 pm The concert was great! The set, sound, everything! 5 Engida (Guest) Jul 19th, 2010 at 10:33 pm Happy Birthday, Mr.T. Afro. 6 Muziqa Lover Jul 19th, 2010 at 10:43 pm I echo Monica. It was the dopest show. Teddy Afro is quite a stage-man. He has matured both as a musician and as person but still has lots of room to grow. And he is headed for even higher success and purpose. 7 ambera.fida Jul 20th, 2010 at 2:44 am i love uuuuuuuuuuuuuuu Teddy 8 Rahel Jul 20th, 2010 at 10:16 am Fiqir Yashenifal. Yes it does, love wins always! 9 Liya Jul 20th, 2010 at 7:14 pm I had a great time. Thank you for the photos! 10 Seiume Chinaw Jul 21st, 2010 at 10:10 am I came all the way from Phili and I got there around 12:45. There were still a lot of people outside. This security looking guy told me that if I wait inline I am going to miss the whole show but if I pay him $50 he will find a way to let me in. I did not trust him so I left. 11 Derege Jul 21st, 2010 at 9:52 pm Happy birthday! 12 gessesew Jul 23rd, 2010 at 1:24 am Betam Arif neber! 13 MIMI Jul 26th, 2010 at 3:00 pm i LOVE TEDDY AFRO 14 derik Aug 14th, 2010 at 6:08 am i miss you much, just drop some new hits and that way i can not be alone! 15 ERMIAS ZELALEM Sep 8th, 2010 at 7:04 pm Teddy H B day. good job berta !u are my Hero we Love u .God Bless u! 16 wasihun Oct 27th, 2010 at 2:31 pm i love u tedy

17 nebyat Dec 25th, 2010 at 4:25 am U R THE BEST SINGER WE EVER HAVE ..GOD BLESS U 18 esuba Feb 5th, 2011 at 3:05 am my hero,yeselame abat melkam “Zemen”yehunelh!!!! 1 Color Heritage Premium Reggae ApparelTEDDY AFRO CONCERT NEW YORK CITY « Pingback on Jul 19th, 2010 at 10:01 am 2 Color Heritage Premium Reggae ApparelTEDDY AFRO CONCERT NEW YORK CITY « Pingback on Jul 19th, 2010 at 10:03 am 3 Color Heritage Premium Reggae ApparelTeddy Afro Concert New York « Pingback on Jul 19th, 2010 at 11:11 am Leave a Reply Name All rights reserved. Ethio Quest News Together We Can Make It!

Teddy Afro rescue the life of an Ethiopian with 700,000 Birr Published: Oct 30, 2011 by bini Filed under: Celebrity Entertainment Views: 15,500 Tags: Tedy Afro, Ethiopian News [+] [a] [-] Related articles Comments Share3634 It was three years before Asmerom Hailesilassie, 31 years old, left Ethiopia to Puntland with his Wife and a little girl. After spending one year working in his own restaurant in Bosaso, Puntland with his wife and daughter a night comes in December 2009 where five armed robbers try to rape his wife and kill him. On the attempt for self defense by Asmerom and his Ethiopian friends one of the armed robbers got killed. While his friends have managed to escape, Asmerom got arrested and charged with murder. Even though Asmeroms’ neighbors testified his innocence, their testimony was not accepted. As a result Asmerom has to spend one year in prison and sentenced to death. Tribal leaders in Puntland claimed 700,000 birr which is close to $ 40,000 to lift the punishment and they put a deadline for October 28, 2011. While Asmerom was in prison his wife left Puntland and get back to Ethiopia with their 7 years old girl who has been severely injured by the robbers. The girl has died later because of the injury and no one knows the whereabouts of the mother now, said Asmeroms’ sister Luam Hailesillasie. We wrote many letters to the ministry of foreign affairs asking their help to save his life but we don’t get any response Luam told Addis Admas. In the meantime Asmerom made a phone call to his family and told them he got only ten days to stay alive. It seems that he already know that he is out of choice and made his last “good bye” for his relatives on October 18,2011. But his family had to take the last choice, taking the case to a local news paper Reporter and it was published on October 16, 2011. There was no good news until Thursday evening. Asmerom is left with only a single day and the clock is still ticking. Luam said “We have tried our level best to stop the unfair punishment. Nothing has been changed until Thursday night. But that night I got a phone call which tells I have to meet someone the next morning and he is going to pay the money to save the life of my brother.” When Luam goes to the meeting place on Friday, filled with delight she came to realize that the savior was artist Tewodros Kassahun alias Tedy Afro. “He said ‘It’s God who did this, not me’ and gave me a cheque of 700,000 Birr. I couldn’t believe that and I didn’t even know what to say. I am just grateful in the name of God and my family. I loved Tedy and now I love him so much” said Luam. Having the money that Tedy Afro gave her, Luam is now working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to arrange the release of her brother. EthiopianObserver