Tigray Leader Alerts of Possible Conflict Amid Political Turmoil

Tigray leader Getachew Reda warns of potential civil war following a key town’s seizure by a rival TPLF faction. He requests administrative support from the federal government amid allegations of military coups undermining peace agreements. In response, 25 foreign missions advocate for de-escalation and uphold the Pretoria Agreement as hostilities reignite following the TPLF’s divisions.

The political climate in the Tigray region of Ethiopia has become increasingly precarious, as Tigray Regional Interim Administration President Getachew Reda expressed grave concerns over the possibility of renewed civil conflict. His warnings follow the recent seizure of the northern town of Adigrat by a faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which previously divided into rival factions in August. Reda specifically accused the breakaway group of forming alliances with external entities, including Eritrea, which raises alarms for escalating tensions.

In his televised address, Reda called on the federal government to extend administrative aid to stabilize the situation, while also alleging that local military factions were conspiring to destabilize his interim government and undermine the Pretoria Peace Agreement. He clarified that his appeal was for administrative assistance rather than military intervention, emphasizing the need for immediate support from both the federal government and the international community.

In response to Reda’s alarming statements, 25 foreign missions, including those from the US, UK, and Japan, issued a united statement advocating for a cessation of hostilities as stipulated in the Pretoria Agreement. The missions stressed the importance of de-escalating tensions in Tigray, reaffirming their commitment to the peace agreement that had previously halted hostilities in November 2022.

Following the TPLF’s divisive split, key towns and administrative infrastructure have come under threat, as displayed by the recent forceful takeover of Adigrat by Debretsion Gebremichael’s faction. The seizure has subsequently led Reda to dismiss three senior military commanders, accusing them of fomenting conflict. He highlighted that the ongoing unrest has obstructed crucial rehabilitation efforts mandated by the Pretoria Agreement, attributing the turmoil to groups attempting to acquire political power.

The situation in Tigray is emanating instability due to the conflict among factions of the TPLF, raising fears of impending civil war. Getachew Reda’s call for administrative support reflects the urgent need to stabilize the region. International bodies have echoed support for peace, underscoring that sustained efforts are essential to uphold the Pretoria Agreement and mitigate further turmoil. The recent seizures of power signal a significant disruption to governance and peace initiatives in Tigray, necessitating immediate attention and intervention.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr