The Pretoria Peace Agreement, formally known as the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA), served as are solution to put an end to one of the most devastating conflicts in recent history. However, the success of this agreement hinges on the commitment of all parties involved. The recent developments in Tigray, as outlined by Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Tigray State Interim Chief Administrator Getachew Reda, make it imperative for the international community to distinguish between those undermining peace and those striving to implement it faithfully.
Minister Gedion has made it abundantly clear that a faction within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has engaged in actions that threaten the very foundation of the Pretoria Agreement. This faction has not only obstructed the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process but has also worked to dismantle the interim administration through violence and collaboration with hostile external forces. Additionally, their refusal to abide by the directives of the National Electoral Board and their interference with the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are clear breaches of the peace agreement.
It is alarming that instead of holding these spoilers accountable, some members of the international community continue to equate both sides, thereby emboldening those who seek to derail the peace process. As Minister Gedion rightly stated, the global community must be clear in identifying and calling out those who violate the agreement. Failure to do so not only undermines the credibility of peace efforts but also risks plunging Ethiopia back into conflict.
The worsening security situation in Tigray, as reported by Interim Chief Administrator Getachew Reda, further underscores the urgency of the matter. The forced seizure of administrative structures, the rounding up of interim administration appointees, and violent crackdowns on protests point to a calculated attempt to destabilize the region. Such actions are not only a direct challenge to the interim administration but also a significant threat to Ethiopia’s national stability.
Getachew’s revelations regarding the involvement of external actors further complicate the situation. These external forces, by supporting destabilizing elements within Tigray, are exacerbating tensions and hindering efforts to achieve lasting peace. The international community must take a firm stance against any such interference and support Ethiopia’s sovereignty in managing its internal affairs.
A crucial aspect of resolving this crisis is recognizing the internal divisions within the TPLF. While some members of the leadership remain committed to the peace process, a faction is actively working against it. The international community must engage with those genuinely invested in peace while isolating and holding accountable those who act as spoilers.
The Ethiopian federal government has a responsibility to protect the interim administration, uphold the Pretoria Agreement, and maintain national security. However, it requires the unwavering support of the international community to ensure that spoilers do not succeed in their attempts to reignite conflict. The global response must be swift and decisive—sanctioning those who violate the peace agreement while providing robust support to those working towards its implementation.
In general, Ethiopia is currently pursuing the path that leads to sustainable peace while a faction within the TPLF is initiating renewed conflict. The international community must take a principled stand, unequivocally distinguishing between those sabotaging the Pretoria Agreement and those working to uphold it. Only through such clarity can the promise of lasting peace in Ethiopia be realized.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 16 MARCH 2025
