After two years of peace following the Pretoria peace deal, Tigray is teetering into another devastating situation due to the irresponsible individuals and faction of TPLF. The peace deal in 2022 between the federal government and TPLF has effectively silenced the guns and brought much-needed stability to the region. Brokered by the African Union, the accord has above all a relief to the people of Tigray, as well as to Ethiopians more broadly.
Since its signing, the federal government has been resolute in helping the state gain normalcy and improves the situation. The process has improved the humanitarian situation, with the restoration of essential social services. Also, the formation of an Interim Government helped the administration resume its functions. Despite the painful years of conflict, the people of Tigray could breathe a sigh of relief.
Both parties to the agreement have been trying to implement the peace deal and some progress has been registered. Particularly, the federal government has been making utmost effort to oil the skids and expedite the implementation process.
From establishing the National Rehabilitation Commission to preparing a transitional justice policy, the incumbent has taken practical steps to sustain peace and even resolve unresolved matters. Despite the progress, yet some issues need further work and efforts. But as sad as it may sound, some factions of TPLF, as if their past blunders are enough, are trying to drag the state into bloodshed. This however could be more devastating and costly with external forces seemingly prepared to exploit the situation and use it to their own advantage.
Lately, these individuals are now stirring the possibility of renewed violence, putting the already suffering people at risk once more. Certain factions, driven by selfish motives, are attempting to sow division and destabilize the region. Some malicious individuals are fueling conflicts that could deepen the suffering of the people.
In a presser yesterday, Getachew Reda, President of Tigray’s Interim Administration said that a faction within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) is obstructing the implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
Despite the federal government’s commitment to the accord, Getachew explained that this faction’s actions are destabilizing the region and threatening to reignite conflict, further displacing residents. He described the situation as a major challenge to the peace process and called for swift action to ensure the effective enforcement of the agreement.
The Interim President also pointed out delays in the implementation phase, suggesting that some individuals may be taking advantage of the situation for personal gain. He urged the federal government and other relevant parties to address these issues promptly to maintain peace and stability.
They warned that a faction within the Tigray military is actively working to dismantle the Pretoria Agreement and destabilize the region.
The Interim Administration further accused the faction of trying to dismantle the government from within and of committing illegal acts against civilians. These actions, fueled by the ambitions of a power-hungry group, are undermining the administration and exacerbating the suffering of the people.
It is to be recalled that the Tigrayan community in Addis Ababa came together to denounce war-mongers and express their commitment to peace. Participants voiced strong support for peace and underscored the importance of Tigray’s development. They urged regional politicians and elites to settle their differences through dialogue and avoid actions that threaten peace.
Earlier in a statement, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urged all sectors of society, including politicians and academics, to work together to preserve peace and reject aggressive tendencies while indicating the immense suffering the Tigray people endured during the conflict.
True to the Prime Minister’s message, violence will only cause more suffering for innocent people and jeopardize the fragile peace achieved through the Pretoria Agreement.
The Tigray people have already lived through the darkest days of war and shall not endure such trauma again. The Pretoria peace deal shall not be violated by a few power-mongering factions.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 14 MARCH 2025
