borkena
Toronto – Beyene Petros , a prominent biology professor at Addis Ababa University and a revered political leader in the opposition quarter, passed away on Tuesday. He was 74.
News reports from state media outlets indicated that he has been getting medical treatment for a long time. The medical condition is unspecified.
Beyene Petros was born in South Ethiopia in what is now Hadiya zone in 1950 and got his elementary and high school education in his place of birth, Kuyera Adventist school and Nazret (now Adama).
During an interview with state media in his lifetime, Beyene recounted that his choice of academic field was influenced by the Ethiopian Pathologist, Professor Aklilu Lemma. The latter was invited as a guest speaker to a high school in Nazret where Beyene was attending high school.
Beyene took his Bsc degree in Biology from Addis Ababa University in 1973 with a top grade and later went to the United States for his graduate and postgraduate study. He returned to his country after completing his study ( with his family) and had been teaching at Addis Ababa University, where he became professor in 2009, for most part of his life.
He has reportedly contributed over 150 scholarly articles in prominent academic journals and published a book.
News of his death is dominating social media updates among Ethiopians. His students say that they remember him for his teaching style that focuses on encouraging students to realize their full potential in their studies. There are also those who do not forget his readiness to help students in their studies and beyond.
Solomon Kibret says he was his student. He wrote a farewell on his social media. Partly it reads, “…Known for his generosity of spirit and caring mentorship, Professor Beyene created a supportive learning environment where students not only thrived academically but also grew personally. He was always ready to help with any challenge, whether related to coursework or personal matters, and his willingness to go the extra mile left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of learning under his guidance…”
Those who knew him during his study at Addis Ababa University are confirming his dedication for his country, honesty and humbleness as outstanding attributes. Abebe Haregewoin (MD) said “Beyene served his country very well from his heart…I remember him with his humbleness and honesty that are always with him.”
Politicians are also remembering him for his contribution to the peaceful struggle in Ethiopia. President Sahlework Zewde said “I express my condolences with the news of Professor Beyene’s rest [passing]. Professor Beyene was one of those politicians who struggled wishing democracy for our country. When he was a member of the parliament he attempted to demonstrate peaceful struggle, challenging ideas and the superiority of ideas.”
Abiy Ahmed wrote “Professor Beyene Petros embodied the spirit of peaceful political struggle, playing a pivotal role in fostering a culture of non-violence and constructive political dialogue in Ethiopia. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing after a prolonged period of medical care. May his legacy endure, and may he rest in eternal peace.”
When the TPLF took over power in Addis Ababa and decided to dissolve the Ethiopian Defense Force, Beyene was the only person who opposed it, according to sources.
Beyene was the leader of Ethiopian Social Democratic Party (ESDP) and was also a chairman of MEDREK coalition, a coalition of opposition parties. He joined party politics in 1991 after the TPLF took power in Addis Ababa.
Unlike many politicians with some sentiments for ethnic politics, Beyene Petros was firm in his belief about Ethiopia and Ethiopian Patriotism. His brother Bezabih Petros of was a fighter pilot in the Ethiopian Air Force.
Beyene Petros is survived by his wife and four children. Details of the funeral are not released at this time.
Borkena would like to express heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of Professor Beyene Petros and to Ethiopians.
__
Join our Telegram Channel : t.me/borkena
Like borkena on Facebook
Add your business to Ethiopian Business Listing / Ethiopian Business Directory
Join the conversation. Follow us on X (Formerly Twitter) @zborkena to get the latest Ethiopian News updates regularly. Subscribe to YouTube channel To share information or for submission, send e-mail to info@borkena.com
What a clean hero, you will be missed!
Ethiopia will always appreciate you for your professionalism, carefulness for the benefit of all, and honesty. You are a true model politician! You and your Brother are a good gift given to Ethiopia. Bless your family that raised you well. Rest In Peace Gashe!!
May Patriot Professor Beyene Petros Rest In Eternal Peace!!!!
May Patriot Professor Beyene Petros Rest In Eternal Peace!!!!
Heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues.