part of a broader Government campaign to suppress the grievances of the Muslim population. 132. The Complainants contend that the Respondent State's systematic disruption of peaceful demonstrations, accomplished through arbitrary arrests and the disproportionate use of force leading up to the 2015 election, was intended to punish and suppress peaceful protests. They argue that these actions amount to a violation of Article 11 of the Charter. Alleged violation of Article 13(1) of the Charter (The right of Freedom to Participate Freely in Government) 133. The Complainants argue that States are responsible for ensuring that every citizen can freely participate in their country's Government and choose their representatives. They submit that this obligation includes protecting various rights outlined in the Charter, such as freedom of opinion, expression, peaceful assembly, and association, as these rights are crucial for the realization of free and fair elections. 134. The Complainants assert that the right to participate in Government should be considered throughout the entire election process, not just on polling day, and journalists, human rights defenders, and others involved in the electoral process should be protected from intimidation and human rights abuses. They also stress the importance of CSOs engaging with potential elected representatives and expressing their concerns and interests in participating actively in public affairs. 135. The Complainants allege that during the 2015 elections, a specific group of people were systematically prevented from expressing their views, advocating for their positions, and participating in political activities, thus undermining genuine political participation by denying freedom of expression. 136. The Complainants allege that the Respondent State violated citizens' rights by punishing them for exercising their right to political participation and publishing information about candidates, particularly about the opposition group Ginbot 7. 137. The Complainants assert that leading up to the June 2021 election in Ethiopia, civil society groups faced repression, and supporters of opposition parties were subjected to mass arrests. They claim that ~ 25 ~ African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights 31 Bijilo Annex Layout, Kombo North District, West Coast Region, The Gambia, Phone: (220) 230 4361 Fax: (220) 441 05 04 Email: au-banjul@africa-union.org https:/achpr.au.int/