Accusations of War Crimes Against Ethiopian and Eritrean Officials in Tigray Conflict
Survivors of the Tigray conflict have accused 12 Ethiopian and Eritrean officials of war crimes. The complaint, filed in Germany under universal jurisdiction, seeks criminal investigations and potential arrest warrants. Despite a peace agreement in 2022, about one million individuals remain displaced, highlighting the ongoing impact of the conflict.
Eight survivors of the Tigray conflict have lodged a formal complaint against 12 high-ranking officials from Ethiopia and Eritrea, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity. This complaint was filed with the German Federal Public Prosecutor by non-profit Legal Action Worldwide (LAW), as confirmed by their statement. The Tigray conflict, which lasted from 2020 to 2022, resulted in an estimated 600,000 casualties as the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) battled Ethiopian federal forces, supported by Eritrean troops.
The complaint represents a significant legal step, as it utilizes the principle of universal jurisdiction that allows Germany to prosecute grave offenses irrespective of where they were committed. While the specific names of the accused were not disclosed, there is speculation concerning notable leaders, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki; however, a LAW spokesperson stated they cannot confirm or deny their involvement.
Nick Leddy, head of LAW’s strategic litigation department and a former International Criminal Court prosecutor, emphasized the urgency of the investigation, requesting German authorities to pursue arrest warrants for the twelve suspects. The identities and testimonies of the claimants remain confidential to protect their safety and the integrity of the case.
One survivor articulated the personal toll of the war, sharing the loss of his mother and brother, and underscored the ongoing plight of Tigrayans, stating, “the suffering and agony continues.” Despite a peace deal in November 2022, approximately one million displaced individuals still struggle to rebuild their lives, and recent internal disputes within the TPLF raise concerns over a potential resurgence of violence.
The filing of this criminal complaint marks a pivotal moment for accountability regarding the Tigray conflict, as survivors seek justice for immense suffering linked to the actions of high-ranking officials in both Ethiopia and Eritrea. Utilizing universal jurisdiction, the German legal system may facilitate crucial investigations into alleged war crimes, while survivors continue to endure the repercussions of ongoing instability. The emphasis on the secrecy of the identities involved reflects the complex nature of addressing such serious allegations amidst fears of renewed conflict and ongoing suffering in the region.
Original Source: thedefensepost.com
