TPLF Denies Allegations of Secret Talks with Eritrea, Calls Them Fabricated Claims

The TPLF has denied allegations of secret communications with Eritrea, calling them falsehoods aimed at destabilizing the peace process. They assert their dedication to the Pretoria Agreement despite internal divisions and outside conspiracies. Former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome has warned that Eritrean interference could jeopardize regional stability.

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has categorically dismissed allegations of secret interactions with the Eritrean government, branding these claims as “completely untrue” and lacking any substantiation. In a public statement issued on February 26, the TPLF accused various media outlets, including Africa Intelligence and Oromia Media Network (OMN), of spreading “fabricated falsehoods” that undermine the ongoing Pretoria Agreement. They assert that these allegations are part of a conspiracy to destabilize the peace process.

The TPLF’s statement was a direct response to a report from Africa Intelligence, which indicated that high-ranking officials within the Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) had reportedly increased communication with Eritrean military personnel. The report suggested that this interaction began informally along the extensive border with Eritrea and culminated in private meetings in Asmara, where Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki allegedly offered assurances of protection to TDF officers amid potential conflicts with Ethiopia.

In light of these developments, the TPLF emphasized its commitment to the Pretoria Agreement, stating that the people and military forces of Tigray harbor no ulterior motives beyond its implementation. They accused unnamed parties of spreading misinformation intended to confuse the public and thwart the peace agreement’s objectives. The TPLF outlined that despite facing external conspiracies, they will maintain their efforts toward achieving peace.

Despite the ongoing challenges, including rising internal divisions within the TPLF between notable factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Interim Administration President Getachew Reda, the TPLF reiterated their steadfast dedication to peace. Recent remarks from former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome have brought attention to Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki’s alleged attempts to exploit these divisions, highlighting that such manipulations could threaten the stability of the Pretoria Agreement and reignite conflict in northern Ethiopia.

In summary, the TPLF has firmly rejected claims of clandestine communications with Eritrea, casting them as unfounded and politically motivated. The party affirms its commitment to the Pretoria Agreement amidst growing internal and external pressures. As tensions rise within TPLF factions and regional stability hangs in the balance, the situation warrants close monitoring by all stakeholders involved in the peace process.

Original Source: addisstandard.com