M. Asrat:  Now that freedom of expression has grabbed world attention, it is the duty of democratic countries that came out in support of France to put their money where their mouth is, and openly and insistently denounce regimes that trample freedom of expression. France should be the vanguard in denouncing countries like Ethiopia who totally deny freedom of expression. Journalists like Eskinder Nega, Reyot Alemu and the rest while still residing in the ‘Belly of the Beast,’ which is Ethiopia, had the courage and undaunted commitment for freedom of the press and democracy and are now languishing in Meles Zenawi prisons. The Ethiopian people need to affirm that the sword IS NOT mightier than the pen and continue to fight for press freedom and democracy whatever the cost.  Read More…