Addis Ababa — The Ethiopian government has arrested eleven top officials on allegations of corruption linked to the procurement of fertilizer, authorities announced on Thursday.
According to government sources, the suspects — many of them senior figures within the Agricultural Works Corporation — are accused of engaging in serious misconduct during fertilizer purchase processes. Officials say the corruption occurred through the manipulation of procurement procedures, violation of board decisions, and disregard for purchasing guidelines.
Police reported that the individuals had been under investigation, and after compiling sufficient evidence, they were formally charged and taken into custody.
Investigators claim the suspects “violated the mandates and representations provided to them by regional governments,” and acted against established procedures of the corporation. The allegations also include improper contractual agreements and misuse of authority within the Agricultural Works Corporation.
The arrests come amid the federal government’s renewed anti-corruption campaign, which aims to target high-level misconduct in key economic sectors, including agriculture — one of Ethiopia’s most vital industries.
Further details about the charges and upcoming court proceedings are expected to be released in the coming days.
