The Gamo Zone High Court has sentenced Adey Getachew, the wife of former Ethiopian national football team player Alelegn Azene, to 16 years in prison without parole, after finding her guilty of murdering her husband. Her co-defendant, Lungo Lukas—her sister’s husband—was handed a 15-year sentence, also without parole, for his role in the crime.
Alelegn Azene, who previously played as a midfielder for the Ethiopian National Team and Bahir Dar Kenema Football Club in the Ethiopian Premier League, was found dead on March 26, 2024, in the Nech Sar Kebele neighborhood of Arba Minch city. The 23-year-old footballer, widely recognized for his talent and considered one of the league’s top five players in the 2015 Ethiopian calendar year, was initially reported to have died by suicide.
However, weeks after his death, suspicions mounted, prompting a deeper investigation by local authorities. Initial arrests included some of Alelegn’s siblings, but attention soon turned to his spouse. A criminal investigation by the Gamo Zone Justice Department revealed that Alelegn’s death had been staged to appear as a suicide.
According to evidence presented in court, the murder was premeditated and “systematically executed” by Adey and Lungo. Human witnesses and material evidence supported the prosecution’s case that the two conspired and killed Alelegn just two weeks after his wedding.
The motive behind the murder has not yet been fully disclosed by authorities, and the court has yet to reveal details of how the killing was carried out.
During the verdict announcement, the court emphasized the gravity of the crime and its impact on the community and sports sector, stating that both defendants acted with intent and malice.
Alelegn began his football career with Arba Minch Football Club and later joined Hawassa City FC before making his mark in the national league with Bahir Dar Kenema. Known for his physical presence and agility in midfield, his sudden death shocked the nation and left a void in Ethiopian football.
His tragic end has drawn national attention, not only because of his role in Ethiopian sports, but also due to the disturbing nature of the crime and the betrayal by those closest to him.
Authorities have said the case underscores the importance of thorough investigations, particularly when initial reports point to suicide. Meanwhile, many in the football community continue to mourn the loss of a young athlete who had a promising future ahead.
