Residents of Tigray Express Fears Amid Rising Tensions for Renewed Conflict
Residents in Mekelle, Tigray, fear renewed conflict as tensions rise despite a fragile peace agreement from late 2022. Many are preparing for the worst by fleeing or stockpiling supplies. Political struggles within Tigray’s leadership contribute to instability, alongside strained relations with Eritrea. The impact of previous violence endures, with citizens expressing fatigue and anxiety about their future.
Residents in Mekelle, the capital of Tigray, Ethiopia, are apprehensive about the potential resurgence of conflict following the fragile peace agreement established in late 2022. This agreement marked the end of a brutal civil war that caused around half a million casualties. Many residents are taking precautions by securing flights to Addis Ababa or stockpiling supplies due to rising tensions. “It’s all because of the anxiety,” expressed a local resident.
Tseganesh Kassa, an ex-soldier from Shire who suffers from war-related disabilities, articulated her trauma: “I do not want to see that again. Displaced people living in makeshift camps haven’t even been returned to their homes. No-one can handle another war.” The peace agreement came after a tumultuous conflict, but a struggle for power has emerged between leaders of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and the interim administration of Tigray.
Accusations of treachery and power grabs abound, with both sides holding each other responsible for the turmoil and for seeking foreign intervention. The potential collapse of the peace agreement raises alarms about renewed hostilities not only within Ethiopia but potentially involving Eritrea, which partnered with Ethiopia against Tigray during the war. Following the peace deal, relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea soured, worsening fears of renewed violence.
Accusations have arisen regarding ongoing abuses in Tigray, with Eritrean soldiers allegedly occupying disputed lands. Eritrean officials have dismissed these allegations as exaggerated and maintain that the regions in question are sovereign to Eritrea. The Tigray administration insists on reclaiming territories currently controlled by Amhara forces.
Ethiopia’s need for maritime access has only served to exacerbate tensions with Eritrea, leading to worries about a return to hostilities after a brief period of peace. The potential return of fighting carries grave implications for the entire region, already beset with instability. Residents of Mekelle express weariness after enduring the trauma of ongoing violence; “The youths are tired of violence,” stated Tesfay Gebreabgzi, emphasizing the fatigue prevalent among the population.
Haimanot Gebremariam reflected on the impact of the previous conflict on her family, expressing a deep desire to avoid a return to those troubling times. While there exists a facade of normalcy in Mekelle, with businesses operating routinely and a limited security presence, the memories of the destructive conflict loom large. Locals remain alert, closely monitoring developments, particularly the actions of Tigray’s interim administration.
The uncertainty in Tigray continues to create anxiety among its residents, with many hopes for peace resting on the political maneuvers of local and federal authorities. As the community navigates this delicate situation, the fear of yet another devastating conflict remains palpable.
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In conclusion, the residents of Tigray are enduring a climate of fear and uncertainty as tensions rise and political struggles threaten the fragile peace that was achieved in late 2022. The past conflict left deep scars, and the population remains cautious, taking necessary precautions for their safety. Political changes and external influences may further complicate the situation, generating fears of renewed hostilities both internally and with Eritrea. Therefore, the coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining the stability of the region, as the locals cling to hopes for continued peace and recovery.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
