Ethiopia’s Tigray interim government seeks federal intervention after TPLF faction fighters captured key towns, raising fears of renewed civil conflict. The TPLF has experienced internal divisions since the 2022 peace agreement, leading to political tensions and concerns regarding stability in the region. Calls for international oversight are amplifying as the situation escalates.
The interim government of Ethiopia’s Tigray region has urgently requested intervention from the Ethiopian federal government due to a factional dispute within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This appeal follows the seizure of two significant towns by TPLF fighters, which has resulted in several injuries and heightened concerns about the resurgence of civil war in the region.
Recently, TPLF faction members took control of Adigrat, Tigray’s second-largest town, and installed a new administrator, effectively removing the loyalist currently in office. Following this, they captured Adi-Gudem, a town adjacent to the regional capital, Mekele, leading to violent confrontations that left many injured.
The TPLF previously engaged in a devastating two-year conflict against federal forces, culminating in November 2022 with a peace agreement that seemingly established an interim government led by the TPLF. This conflict resulted in immense human suffering, with estimates of hundreds of thousands dead and millions displaced, pushing many towards famine.
Since the cessation of hostilities, the TPLF has fractured, marked by the expulsion of leader Debretsion Gebremichael’s rival, interim governor Getachew Reda, and his cabinet. In a move perceived as retaliatory, Reda suspended military commanders suspected of loyalty to Gebremichael. This has led to warnings about an impending crisis from the Tigray Communication Affairs Bureau.
In light of the rising tensions, Reda characterized the recent TPLF incursions as a potential coup attempt, urging the international community—particularly those involved in the Pretoria Peace Agreement—to remain vigilant. He stressed the need to address the deteriorating circumstances that could threaten the pact.
Contrarily, TPLF deputy chairman Amanuel Assefa contended that the current strife is unrelated to the peace agreement, instead attributing it to routine law enforcement matters. He asserted that the TPLF and Tigray forces maintain rightful ownership of the agreement’s terms and have no intention of violating them.
In conclusion, the growing unrest in Ethiopia’s Tigray region underscores the fragility of the peace that was established after years of brutal conflict. The TPLF’s internal divisions and recent territorial seizures have raised alarms about a potential return to violence, prompting urgent calls for federal intervention and international observation. Both parties appear to have differing views on the nature of the crisis, highlighting a complex and precarious situation.
Original Source: apnews.com
