U.S. Representative Thelma Drake (R-Va.) today released the following statement after it was announced that Dr. Yacob Hailemariam, a former Norfolk State University Professor, had been sentenced to life in prison in Ethiopia:

“This is a very disappointing development in what has been a difficult ordeal for Dr. Hailemariam’s family, his supporters locally and everyone that believes in standing up for democracy. By allowing these convictions to stand, the Ethiopian government is demonstrating that it is not serious about moving towards a free and open society. It is important we not give up hope, but continue to remain vigilant. I intend to continue working with the State Department and the Ethiopian government to press for a different outcome.”