In Ethiopia, the brutal rape and murder of seven-year-old Heaven Awot by her mother’s landlord has sparked outrage over the lenient 25-year prison sentence given to the attacker. More than 200,000 people signed a petition demanding a review of the sentencing. The Ethiopian Women Lawyers Association criticized the sentence as too light, calling for harsher punishment.
Heaven’s tragic story sheds light on the safety of vulnerable women and young girls in Ethiopia, particularly in the midst of conflict-related sexual violence that has plagued the country. The lack of accountability for perpetrators is seen as a contributing factor to the prevalence of such crimes.
Heaven’s mother, Abekyelesh Adeba, faced additional trauma as she grieved for her daughter and struggled for justice. She expressed fears for her safety after the attacker escaped custody, leading to repeated relocations and job changes. Abekyelesh worries that the justice system failed her and fears the attacker’s potential early release.
Heaven’s story serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the countless women and girls who suffer similar fates in Ethiopia. Abekyelesh mourns her daughter while advocating for justice and safety for all vulnerable individuals.
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