Ethiopian Government Clarifies Position on Former President’s Critique of Eritrea
The Ethiopian government has distanced itself from former President Mulatu Teshome’s criticism of Eritrea, which prompted a strong response from Eritrea. Teshome’s remarks in Al Jazeera condemned Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki for escalating conflict, while Eritrean officials dismissed these claims as provocative. The Ethiopian government emphasized that Teshome’s views are personal and do not represent its official stance.
The Ethiopian government has distanced itself from comments made by former President Mulatu Teshome regarding the Eritrean regime, which sparked a strong response from Asmara. During a press briefing, Nebiat Getachew, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Teshome’s remarks were solely his personal opinions shaped by his regional experiences.
In an opinion piece published in Al Jazeera on February 17, Mulatu, who served as Ethiopia’s president from 2013 to 2018 and is an ally of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, accused Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki of intentionally seeking conflict in northern Ethiopia. He further urged the international community to apply pressure on Eritrea to avert potential disaster.
Mulatu characterized Isaias as someone who not only seeks conflict but thrives on it, comparing him to a pyromaniac. He commented, “War is the main business and preoccupation of the Eritrean state. Stirring conflict here and there, supporting rebels, insurgents or governments seeking war and division throughout the region seems to be the raison d’etre of the Eritrean state.”
In a rebuttal, Yemane Gebre Meskel, Eritrea’s Information Minister, labeled the former president’s remarks as “a false-flag alarm and warmongering.” He asserted that the criticisms stemmed from “ill intent and provocations” directed at Eritrea.
The Ethiopian government had previously refrained from commenting on the matter until the recent press briefing when it reaffirmed that Teshome’s views do not represent its official stance. In light of escalating tensions, the Eritrean government is reportedly contemplating the closure of its embassy in Addis Ababa and is urging veterans to engage in military training.
In summary, the Ethiopian government has clarified that former President Mulatu Teshome’s critical views on Eritrea do not reflect its official position. Teshome’s statements indicated concerns regarding Eritrean actions leading to potential conflict, met with a strong denial from Eritrea’s government. The situation continues to evolve amid rising tensions, potentially impacting diplomatic relations in the region.
Original Source: www.ethiopiaobserver.com
