Ethiopian cardinal prevented from entering Eritrea

The head of the Catholica Church in Ethiopia was reportedly barred from leaving the airport in the Eritrean capital, Asmara, over the weekend.

According to a statement released by the Church, Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew was issued a visa on arrival, but was stopped by airport officials who said their orders came from “high up”.

Eritrea’s government has been unhappy with the Church since it called for wide-ranging political reforms last year.

Catholic-run schools and hospitals have been closed in the country, as authorities cite an old law preventing religious institutions from running such bodies. 

The Cardinal is a highly respected figure within Ethiopia, and was recently appointed by Prime Minister Abiy to head a national reconciliation commission.

He was in Eritrea to mark the 50th anniversary of the construction of the Kidane Mehret Cathedral, in Asmara.

The Eritrean government has not responded to questions over the matter.

The Catholic Church is one of only four religions that are allowed to operate in Eritrea, alongside Eritrean Orthodox, Evangelical Lutheran and Sunni Islam.

Photo: Getty Images