On behalf of the vast majority of the proud Ethiopian people, I express my gratitude to Georgetown University, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy of a Dream Award that it bestowed upon Mrs. Azeb Mesfin. Ethiopia is proud of her; and Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. would have been too!

I have heard first hand, what ordinary Ethiopians, many of whom are beneficiaries of the fruits of her endeavor in the fight against HIV/AIDS, have been saying in praise of Mrs. Azeb Mesfin, all over Ethiopia. Especially Ethiopian women, truly adore and respect Azeb Mesfin for what she has accomplished; and as she continues to work tirelesly for them

Mrs. Azeb Mesfin is recognized as among the most accomplished ladies in Ethiopia. She was a freedom fighter in the war against the most brutal regime Africa has ever known, namely the DERG. She is a duly elected Member of Parliament. She is a mother; and who also happens to be the wife of the Prime Minister of Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

In an opinion posted on "thehoya.com" protesting the award, Ms Lemlem Tsegaw [http://www.thehoya.com/viewpoint/012607/view8.cfm] quoted the Bible to make her point. Perhaps the reference to the Bible may have caught the favorable eyes of Rev. Pat Robertson, for whom I have very little repect. However, I would like to take Ms Tsegaw's lead, and quote another verse from the Bible: "Beware of the false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matt. 7:15).

There are many people of Ethiopian origin living in USA who express ill-will toward any Ethiopian who may contribute something rare and precious for Ethiopia and its people. Ms Lemlem Tsegaw may or may not be a Vocal Diaspora CUD; but she sure does emulate one.

H.E. Mrs. Azeb Mesfin is a battle-tested lady. She can handle anything Ms Lemlem Tsegaw, or anyone else for that matter, may pitch her way.