Eritrean Orthodox Patriarch Dies in Detention After 16 Years of Confinement

Abune Antonios, the Eritrean Orthodox Church patriarch and longest-serving prisoner of conscience in the Horn of Africa, died on February 9 at age 94. He had been held in detention in the Eritrean capital, Asmara, since his arrest in 2006, shortly after his installation as the third patriarch of the Eritrean Orthodox Church. His imprisonment spanned 16 years under the orders of President Isaias Afwerki, who sought to suppress his resistance to government interference in church affairs.

Antonios was arrested for his criticism of government excesses and his refusal to comply with state control over religious institutions. In 2007, with the support of the Eritrean government, he was replaced as patriarch by Abune Dioskoros. Despite this, many followers and clergy, both within Eritrea and in the diaspora, continued to recognize Antonios as their spiritual leader during his detention.

In 2019, bishops of the Holy Synod of the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church excommunicated Antonios, accusing him of heresy. This action was condemned by the Standing Conference of Oriental Orthodox Churches. While in detention, Antonios was denied access to church services, visitors, and the opportunity to challenge his imprisonment in court.

Mervyn Thomas, founder and president of Christian Solidarity Worldwide, noted that Antonios “never compromised, even when it would have led to his reinstatement.” He emphasized the patriarch’s commitment to protecting the integrity and doctrine of the church. Thomas called on the international community to honor Antonios’ stand for religious freedom by supporting efforts to release three Orthodox priests he advocated for and thousands of others detained for their beliefs.

The patriarch’s death in detention is likely to deepen divisions within the Eritrean Orthodox Church, particularly as it relates to the ongoing tensions between the government and religious leadership. His legacy reflects a steadfast commitment to spiritual principles, even in the face of severe personal sacrifice.

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