Recruitment “stepped up”

Recruitment for the Eritrean army has been “stepped up”, diplomatic and media sources in Asmara said. According to the sources, the government made “a political decision” about a month ago to include all eligible people for service without exceptions. Previously, people in certain ministries, professions and services could make an application for exemption, pleading a crucial national role. It provoked complaints that the system was being exploited to avoid service. “Lots of people are being taken now, including doctors”, said one journalist. Both sides, while claiming regular victories, have reportedly lost thousands of frontline soldiers since heavy trench warfare resumed three days ago.