Woman Accuses Tigray Bishop Abune Aregawi of Sexual Abuse After Leaked Video

A woman named Rosa, a resident of Axum, has come forward regarding a viral video involving a prominent religious figure, identifying herself as a victim of sexual abuse. In an audio interview with a YouTube channel, she claimed that Abune Aregawi, the bishop and general secretary of the Tigray See of Peace, repeatedly subjected her to sexual violence over the past year. Rosa stated that she secretly recorded a video of an encounter to demand an end to the abuse, but the footage subsequently leaked online beyond her control. She further alleged that she was offered up to 5 million Birr to delete the video and received death threats after refusing to accept the money. Additionally, Rosa mentioned knowing four other women who allegedly experienced similar sexual abuse by the bishop in and around Axum. Currently receiving legal assistance in Axum, Rosa called for religious leadership to abide strictly by holy laws, while Abune Aregawi's current whereabouts remain unknown and he has not yet publicly responded to the allegations.