COVID-19 positive journalist Yassin Juma speaks of his plight behind police cells in Ethiopia

Kenyan respected journalist, Yassin Juma has been held in Ethiopia for more than 47 days now and confirmed positive for Coronavirus barely a week ago.

Also read: Kush Tracey tests positive for COVID-19

Friday, August 14, the former NTV journalist confirmed his COVID-19 results and sadly, despite his condition, no medication, no medical attention was accorded to him and he remains doubtful he will make it out alive.

A father, husband and grandfather who has been separated from his loved ones for a crime he does not believe he committed but the mere fact that he could give a voice to the voiceless. And for that, the innocent are suffering.

Also read: Kenyan journalist Yassin Juma tests positive for Coronavirus

His letter reads in part;

My family depends on me. I do not know how they can manage to feed or pay rent. I have seven children and one grandson living with my ex-wife. They all depend on me.

The conditions in the cells are not even conducive for his recovery nor well-being, locked up with 68 more inmates.

I am currently being held at Block (W) with 68 other Covid-19 positive inmates with no access to medication in overcrowded cells, no running water and no diet to assist us with our condition.

For Yassin, his condition is only worsening behind bars, with the Kenyan government silent about his treatment in the foreign country despite the courts affirming his release.

My health is failing with each passing day, and am not sure if I will make it. It is 50-50 with coronavirus but the condition in detention make my survival chances less. The Kenyan government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has failed to secure my freedom even after 2 courts (Lower and High Court) released me last Monday.

His plea being one;

All I am asking the Ethiopian government is to either charge me or set me free. They have failed to bring evidence in court to charge me.

Wrapping up;

Kindly pass my greetings and love to my children and grandson. Remember me in your prayers as I fight coronavirus and injustice.