Wzr. Lishan Akuma was found NOT guilty today in a Washington DC court. Addis Dimts Radio host Abebe Belew told Ethiopian Review that the judge dismissed all the charges against Lishan this morning after hearing closing arguments from the prosecutor and the defense lawyer.
Prominent religious leaders, including Abune Filipos, Abune Samuel, and Aba Woldetensay, were joined by Kinijit leaders Wzt. Bertukan Mideksa and Ato Gizachew Shiferraw, as well as several Ethiopians who reside in the Washington DC area had attended the hearing today in a show of solidarity with Lishan.
Following the judge’s decision, Lishan was allowed to give a statement. After thanking the judge, her lawyer, and every one who came to the court to show solidarity, Lishan knelt down and prayed for the same kind of justice to prevail in Ethiopia.
Lishan Akuma with Kinijit leaders Wzt. Bertukan Mideksa, Ato Gizachew Shiferraw, and friends after being found not guilty, Oct. 18, 2007 [photo: Abebe Belewx]
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