Outrage in Ethiopia Over Landlord’s 25-Year Sentence for Raping and Killing 7-Year-Old Girl
On Wednesday, August 21, more than 240,000 people signed an online petition condemning the 25-year prison sentence given to Getnet Baye, who was convicted of raping and murdering 7-year-old Heaven Awot last year.
Getnet was sentenced to 25 years in prison for his heinous crime, but many believe this punishment is too lenient. The attack occurred in August 2023 in Bahir Dar, Amhara region.
Following the sentencing, Getnet announced plans to appeal the decision, with the case now adjourned until October 2024.
Heaven’s mother, Abekyelesh Adeba, expressed deep sorrow and feeling “lifeless” after the loss of her daughter.
The online petition demanding a harsher sentence for Getnet has garnered over 200,000 signatures, showing strong public support for Abekyelesh. The Ethiopian Women Lawyers Association (EWLA) has criticized the 25-year sentence as “very light,” arguing that life imprisonment or the death penalty would be more appropriate given the crime’s severity and Heaven’s young age.
Government officials, including Minister for Women and Social Affairs Ergogie Tesfaye, have also condemned the ruling, describing the crime as “inhumane” and promising to address the issue.
Heaven’s tragic death has sparked a wider conversation about the safety of women and girls in Ethiopia. A recent Human Rights Watch report highlighted an increase in sexual violence linked to the ongoing conflict in the Tigray region, which had already impacted Heaven’s family.
Prior to her death, Heaven’s family was affected by the Tigray conflict, with her father imprisoned and later fleeing to Tigray. The attack occurred while Heaven was in the care of her aunt, and her mutilated body was discovered outside their home.
The situation was further complicated by Getnet’s escape from custody after a break-in by local militias. For nearly a month, Getnet evaded capture, threatening Abekyelesh and forcing her to move frequently in fear.
Abekyelesh now fears that justice may be compromised if Getnet’s appeal is successful. “I have lost my Heaven… I am lifeless,” she told the BBC.
