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There are many things going on in Ethiopia, the least palatable of which is the apparent atheism of the current leader. I won't go into the bitter politics except to say that he's still 100% better than who was running as leader a decade ago.
But, here is the surprise. Photographer Biniam Mengesha had initially acquired permission to exhibit his photography in a July show, but upon reviewing his works, the members from the Ministery of Culture deemed the nude photographs "pornography" and withdrew the permit.
His would have been the "first nude show in the Horn of Africa." Yes, modern Ethiopia is sure leading the way.
But old habits die hard, and I would think that's what most of this verdict by this group is. A habit of the strict conservative culture that is part of the Orthodox society. Now, if these judges were only working based on the true principles of that Orthodoxy, and not just knee-jerk reaction, then there is some hope for the deeply principled (upon Christian, biblical edicts) behaviors which their predecessors followed so closely.
But the Ministry seems to be right. Just by looking at Biniam's studio sign, he doesn't look like he's into art as much as some kind of glamorous pursuit for extra earnings. You can view the photos here and judge for yourselves.