Ethiopian Government Disavows Claims of Eritrean Conflict Involvement

Former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome claimed Eritrea is exacerbating conflicts through the TPLF, warning of a potential regional war. The Ethiopian government, however, has distanced itself from his views, asserting they are personal. Eritrea’s response included accusations of Ethiopian warmongering. Meanwhile, military mobilization reports from Eritrea have raised concerns of increasing tensions between the two nations.

The Ethiopian government has publicly disavowed the views expressed by former President Mulatu Teshome, who suggested that Eritrea is inciting conflict via the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). In an Al Jazeera op-ed, Teshome warned that such tensions could escalate regionally, characterizing war as a means of profit for the Eritrean regime.

Initially, many believed that Mulatu’s comments echoed the stance of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. This was seemingly confirmed when Eritrea’s Minister of Information, Yemane Gebremeskel, accused Ethiopia of fostering war, emphasizing that Eritrea generally does not respond to accusations unless deemed significant.

Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that Mulatu’s opinions were merely personal reflections. Spokesperson Nebiyu Getachew remarked that Ethiopia has more than one former president, in contrast to Eritrea’s singular leadership under President Isaias Afwerki, implying broader political complexity in Ethiopia.

Following the op-ed’s publication, reports emerged indicating Eritrea’s mobilization of older veterans for military service and a travel ban on younger citizens. Despite these reports, Dawit, a pro-Eritrean government activist, challenged their validity, preferring information from Ethiopian state media over foreign sources.

The escalating tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia raise concerns over a potential conflict, as diplomatic relations deteriorate further amidst mutual accusations and military preparations.

The Ethiopian government has distanced itself from the statements made by former President Mulatu Teshome regarding Eritrean involvement in regional conflicts. Despite Eritrea’s critical response, Ethiopia emphasizes its political plurality, contrasting the governance structure of Eritrea. Amidst apprehension of escalating hostilities, the situation remains precarious, underscoring the need for diplomatic engagement.

Original Source: borkena.com