The Pretoria peace deal has brought peace and stability to the Tigray region successfully silencing the guns and preventing renewed conflicts. The deal, seen as exemplary and a model for Africa, has also paved the way for peaceful settlement conflicts, setting a lesson for conflict-ridden and war-torn nations.
The peace accord ended a brutal conflict that caused immense suffering for millions of Ethiopians. The deal largely addressed key issues, including humanitarian aid, the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs), and the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) process. Thus far, the federal government has been resilient and resolute in effectuating the deal fully.
With the unflinching stand of the federal government and the leadership of the Tigray Interim Administration, Tigray has been connected to basic and social services and the people have been enjoying the much-needed peaceful environment.
The last two years have seen significant progress in terms of restoring essential social services, rebuilding Tigray’s infrastructure, and stabilizing the region, said Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed yesterday, speaking before lawmakers.
The MPs have raised questions to the Prime Minister ranging from peace and security to other economic matters. The lawmakers have demanded a response to the efforts of the Ethiopian government to prevent any confrontation as there has been an escalation between the TPLF factions.
Addressing the questions, the Premier stated that his administration has been fully committed and de-escalating confrontations to prevent any conflict. He stated the Tigray people need peace and stability. The interim administration of the Tigray region has been trying to implement the agreement for the last two years. Some progress has been registered. Now that the time is over Abiy said, the interim administration with slight adjustments will be given a one-year term to implement the Pretoria deal and prepare the Tigray people for a new election.
The incumbent has taken decisive steps to maintain the peace, such as the establishment of the National Rehabilitation Commission and the drafting of a transitional justice policy. The initiatives corroborate the government’s resolve to sustain peace and resolve lingering disputes that arose during the conflict. However, certain factions within the TPLF have sought to undermine the process, threatening to destabilize the region once again.
DDR is essential for stabilizing post-conflict societies and ensuring long-term peace. It removes the threat of violence by collecting and destroying weapons, preventing their use in future conflicts. It also involves the formal process of separating fighters from armed groups and reintegrating them into society, addressing their needs through education, training, and support systems.
The full effectuation of DDR is crucial in rebuilding communities, recovering damages, and ensuring that former combatants transition from warfare to productive civilian life.
Addressing the psychological, economic, and social needs of ex-combatants, DDR programs help mitigate the risk of relapse into violence. Successful reintegration of former fighters also helps restore public trust and stability, reinforcing the effectiveness of the peace agreement.
The successful implementation of this peace agreement, however, hinges on the Tigray Interim Administration’s resolve. DDR is not only crucial for ensuring lasting peace but also for preventing a return to armed conflict and fostering national reconciliation.
The federal government has a responsibility to ensure that the progress made under the peace agreement is not undone by these disruptive forces. At the same time, the international community must play a crucial role in supporting the peace process and helping to hold the responsible parties accountable.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 21 MARCH 2025
