Tigray Region Seeks Federal Intervention Amid Rising Tensions

Ethiopia’s Tigray region has requested federal intervention after a faction of the TPLF seized control of Adigrat, raising concerns of renewed conflict. Divisions within the TPLF have deepened since the 2022 truce, with internal struggles threatening peace in the region. Tigray’s interim leader, Getachew Reda, accused rival faction leader Debretsion Gebremichael of the takeover and requested federal support against potential violence.

Ethiopia’s Tigray region officials have called for federal assistance following the seizure of the town of Adigrat by a faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This factional conflict raises concerns about a potential resurgence of violence in a region still recovering from a devastating two-year war.

The TPLF, which heads Tigray’s interim administration established from a peace deal in 2023, has experienced a split into two competing factions since the war ended in November 2022. Each faction claims legitimacy over leadership responsibilities within the party.

On Wednesday, faction leader Getachew Reda accused rival Debretsion Gebremichael of taking control of Adigrat. In response, Debretsion’s faction confirmed the takeover on social media. Furthermore, Getachew dismissed three senior military commanders he accused of instigating turmoil in the region.

Getachew expressed concern over the potential violation of the Pretoria Agreement, stating, “The federal government must… understand that those acting in the name of the security forces are agents of a backward and criminal clique.”

While requests for comments went unanswered from government officials, the ongoing tensions indicate a fragile peace environment in Tigray, which remains vulnerable to renewed conflict.

The Tigray region’s request for federal intervention highlights escalating internal divisions within the TPLF and significant concerns regarding the potential resumption of conflict. Recent developments, including the seizure of Adigrat and the dismissal of military leaders, further complicate the already precarious situation following the end of the war. The implications for peace and security in Tigray remain significant, necessitating a careful response from federal authorities.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com