In what could be said an important announcement, the Tigray Interim Administration has called on the people of Tigray to nominate candidates for presidency, as it seeks a one-year extension to continue its work.
The announcement, which was conveyed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, reiterates the continued resolve to fully realize the Pretoria peace deal, as well as to redress the challenges that remain in fully stabilizing the region.
Following the expiry of the term of the interim government that has been in operation for the last two years in accordance with Article 62(9) of the Constitution, Proclamation No. 359/2002, which prohibits the intervention of the federal government in the regions and the Pretoria Agreement as well as the Council of Ministers Regulation No. 533/2015, the incumbent has found it necessary to extend the term, the announcement said.
The decision to extend the interim administration’s term comes after its two-year mandate expired. Despite significant progress in stabilizing Tigray, key tasks remain unfinished, particularly the establishment of conditions for elections, which had been a central goal of the interim government, the announcement reads.
The failure to hold elections as planned, along with other critical tasks, such as the full implementation of the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) process, necessitated the extension. This extension offers an opportunity for the interim administration to complete the peace agreement’s objectives and pave the way for Tigray’s political future.
Over the past two years, efforts have been made to restore essential services, rebuild infrastructure, and establish a sense of security for the people of Tigray.
In his remarks to the Ethiopian Parliament lately, the Prime Minister emphasized the significant progress made but also acknowledged the challenges that remain. The ongoing support for the Tigray Interim Administration and the decision to extend its term by a year is a testament to the government’s determination to see the peace process through to completion.
One of the primary tasks facing the interim administration is the completion of the DDR process. Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration are crucial for building a stable and secure environment in Tigray. The DDR process not only addresses the removal of weapons but also focuses on the psychological, social, and economic needs of former combatants.
And, the extension of the Tigray Interim Administration’s term presents an opportunity to complete the vital tasks outlined in the peace agreement. The focus must be on ensuring the full implementation of the DDR process and preparing for elections, which will provide Tigray with the political stability it needs for the future.
The new administration in Tigray is expected to focus on peace and development, while resolving lingering issues from the past. The people of Tigray have endured numerous wars over the past 100 years, and they deserve the right to live in peace.
The priority of the new Tigray administration should be ensuring that the people of Tigray continue to their normal lives. Furthermore, political figures must ensure that those displaced by the war are reintegrated into their communities, and that they are allowed to lead peaceful lives. This is a critical task for the new administration.
The federal government, with the support of the international community, must also continue to work to ensure that peace is maintained and that the region does not fall back into conflict due to some hawkish factions. Only through sustained efforts can Tigray sustainable lasting peace and reconciliation.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 28 MARCH 2025
