Calls for release of Eritrean pastors held 20 years

Christians have been called to remember their fellow believers amidst intensifying persecution in Eritrea. Oft dubbed the "North Korea of Africa," the state cracks down on dissent, and an Open Doors spokesperson has called for believers not to “be blind to the suffering of our persecuted brothers and sisters."

Open Doors are one of several charities which have called for the release of seven church leaders in Eritrea who have been held without charge for over 20 years. The men are yet to stand trial, and their families have not been allowed to visit them, in a situation emblematic of the suffering of Christians all over the country.

Mussie Eyasu (name changed for security reasons), an Eritrean Christian who was part of an underground church before eventually fleeing the country 17 years ago, told en about what he feels is a worsening predicament.