Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Proposes Virtual Voting Amid Tigray Tensions

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has proposed a virtual vote for a new interim president in Tigray as tensions rise after Getachew Reda’s ousting by a rival TPLF faction. Getachew has sought federal intervention, accusing Eritrea of supporting his adversaries, claims that have been denied. The political instability follows significant divisions within the TPLF, highlighted by conflicts over leadership.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has recommended that the citizens of Tigray submit candidates for a new interim president via email, amid escalating tensions following the ousting of Getachew Reda by a faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This suggestion arose after a recent speech in parliament where Abiy endorsed the leadership of the interim administration until the next nationwide election.

Getachew Reda, who was appointed last year following a peace agreement that ended a two-year conflict between federal forces and Tigrayan rebels, has reportedly been in Addis Ababa for the past two weeks after being expelled from the TPLF. His ousting occurred after a rival faction captured a strategic town and gained control over significant portions of the Tigray region, further exacerbating divisions within the party.

The underlying power struggle within the TPLF became evident when a significant party congress took place last August without Getachew’s presence. This schism has resulted in one faction supporting Getachew while another is led by Debretsion Gebremichael, a long-time TPLF leader. Following this division, Debretsion’s supporters effectively ousted Getachew from his position, a move that has yet to receive recognition from the federal government.

Since his removal, Getachew has called for federal intervention, alleging that Eritrea is backing Debretsion’s faction. However, these allegations have been categorically denied by Debretsion’s supporters, further complicating the political landscape in Tigray.

In conclusion, Ethiopia’s political landscape in Tigray is currently marked by rising tensions following the removal of Getachew Reda. The Prime Minister’s call for virtual submissions of presidential candidates reflects the urgency of stabilizing the region amidst factional conflicts within the TPLF. As rival factions vie for power, the necessity for federal intervention and dialogue remains paramount to prevent further escalation.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr