BY STAFF CONTRIBUTOR
The heartbreaking story of an innocent seven-year-old kid named Heaven from Bahir Dar has left me deeply disturbed. She was subjected to a horrific act of violence, and in a chilling twist, the perpetrator went so far as to stuff sand into her mouth and smear her with her own blood, attempting to stage her death as an accident. Tragically, this heinous crime occurred a year ago, and we are learning about it just now. Instead of seeking justice, those close to the offender have been actively trying to shield him, even resorting to threats against Heaven's mother.
Justice fundamentally revolves around the idea that individuals receive what is rightfully theirs, be it a reward, punishment, or equitable treatment. But what could truly honor the mother of heaven? Even death of the offender seems insufficient to do justice for this woman. After all, the demise of the creature responsible would merely bring an end to his own suffering, leaving the true pain unaddressed. On another note, one might argue that animals aren't entirely malevolent; at least they don't prolong suffering—they deliver a swift end instead.
The notion of "an eye for an eye" is a time-honored principle that dates back to the dawn of civilization, deeply embedded in the framework of retributive justice. It presents a straightforward yet severe formula: for every offense committed, there ought to be a corresponding punishment of equal measure. Frequently linked to the teachings of the Old Testament, this idea has served as a foundational element in legal systems throughout history. In cases of such offenses, it might be necessary to take that course of action.
It is perplexing how individuals who have committed relatively minor offenses often find themselves languishing in prison, while those guilty of far more heinous acts seem to roam freely or enjoy a comfortable existence behind bars. The notion that someone who has perpetrated such a crime could simply relax in prison is infuriating; they deserve severe punishment, perhaps even public execution, which would serve as a grim reminder of their actions.
As a mother, I now grapple with the unsettling reality that I can’t let my daughter play outside without worry. My concerns extend to my son as well, as the alarming truth is that young boys are also vulnerable to such horrific acts, and it’s a reality that we can no longer ignore. It's puzzling to see how the law seems to show leniency towards certain individuals. One can't help but wonder if the situation would be different if these crimes were committed against the families of lawmakers or those in positions of authority.
My mind races with countless thoughts as I attempt to understand the motivations behind such horrific actions, pondering whether these individuals are mentally unstable, emotionally detached, or perhaps even influenced by darker forces. The reasons that lead to the unspeakable crimes of child rape and murder are not only intricate but also deeply unsettling. While grasping the psyche of those who commit such acts is nearly impossible, elements such as severe mental disorders, substance dependence, a background steeped in violence, and previous experiences of child sexual abuse may play a role in their behavior.
Furthermore, societal views and cultural practices that diminish the worth of women and children can foster an environment where these dreadful acts become more prevalent. It is essential to recognize that while these factors may contribute to the problem, they in no way excuse or rationalize the abhorrent nature of these crimes.
I truly believe that a lifetime behind bars wouldn't alter the mindset of someone like the man who harmed that girl. He was sentenced just to 25 years in prison. If he had any sense of remorse, he wouldn't have gone so far as to put sand in her mouth after committing such a heinous act. Individuals like him need to understand that their actions carry severe repercussions, and they should seriously reconsider their choices before targeting someone else's daughter or in some instance their own daughter. Our desire as a nation is to witness justice delivered for Heaven and her mother, as well as for all the other young girls who have endured similar hardships. They, along with their families, deserve to see justice prevail.