The history of the Tigray region in Ethiopia has been marked by both glory and turmoil, and the last few years have been no exception. The two-year conflict in Tigray devastated the region, leaving untold destruction and suffering. However, amidst the darkness, there has been a ray of hope following the signing of the Pretoria agreement in November 2022. The agreement, which aimed to bring an end to the brutal war and initiate a process of recovery, has proven to be a milestone in the country’s contemporary history.
Two years into the interim administration established under the leadership of Getachew Reda, Tigray has experienced significant progress toward stability. However, while a lot has been achieved, much still remains to be done. The peaceful transfer of power following the end of Getachew Reda’s tenure marks a new phase in the region’s journey, a phase that promises both challenges and opportunities. With the appointment of Lt. General Tadesse Werede as the new president of the interim administration, the people of Tigray are hopeful that the torch will be passed on to capable hands, and that the remaining goals of the Pretoria Agreement will be achieved.
The Pretoria agreement came into existence after a harrowing conflict between the federal government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which had long dominated the region. The agreement was brokered after months of intense negotiations under the mediation of the African Union. It laid out a roadmap for the cessation of hostilities, facilitating humanitarian access, and leading to political and economic recovery in Tigray. Its importance cannot be overstated, as it not only ended a destructive war but also served as the basis for peace, reconciliation, and national dialogue.
Among the major pillars of the agreement was the establishment of an interim administration in Tigray that oversees the transition from conflict to stability. This administration was to work closely with the federal government so as to implement the provisions of the agreement, with the ultimate goal of bringing peace and normalcy to Tigray. The agreement also called for humanitarian assistance, reconstruction of infrastructure, and the repatriation of displaced citizens. These goals are still a work in progress.
The leadership of Getachew Reda over the last two years has been pivotal in getting the interim administration through the most difficult of circumstances. Under his leadership, the region has achieved some much-needed progress. Despite the enormous challenges, there have been collaborative efforts to restore basic services, repair infrastructure, and bring humanitarian aid to the region. These efforts have been supported not only by the federal government but also by the international community, which has played a crucial role in providing assistance.
Getachew Reda’s tenure as the president of the interim administration of Tigray has been characterized by dedication, resilience, and pragmatism. His ability to consult with the federal government and his leadership during a period of great hardships has been commendable. In particular, his role in facilitating the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement, which has led to
a cessation of hostilities and the launch of humanitarian aid, is a testament to his commitment to peace and stability for the people of Tigray.
Under Getachew’s leadership, Tigray has begun the long and difficult process of recovery. Many of the region’s most pressing needs, which ranging from humanitarian aid to rebuilding essential services, have been addressed, though not without considerable difficulty. His team has worked diligently to implement the provisions of the Pretoria Agreement, ensuring that the process remains on track in spite of the many challenges encountered.
However, there remains a lot yet to be done. While encouraging progress has been made so far, the region is still grappling with the fallouts from the war. The humanitarian crisis remains severe, with many people still in need of aid. Furthermore, rebuilding the political and social fabric of Tigray will require a great deal of effort and cooperation between the interim administration, the federal government, and the people themselves. This is where the work of Getachew’s successor will become even more critical.
The appointment of Lt. General Tadesse Werede, as the new president of the interim administration, signals a new chapter for Tigray. General Tadesse, who has served as Getachew Reda’s deputy, brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the region’s complex political and social dynamics. His leadership will be crucial in taking the next steps toward implementing the Pretoria Agreement and ensuring that the promises made to the people of Tigray are fulfilled.
Considering his long time as deputy president, Tadesse is well-positioned to understand the gaps that still exist in the region. His familiarity with the challenges facing Tigray, combined with his experience in military and political leadership, make him an ideal candidate to manage the next phase of the region’s recovery. His leadership will be critical in maintaining the momentum of peace and rebuilding the trust that has been shattered by years of conflict.
Moreover, it is hoped that General Tadesse will put to use his experience and the lessons learned from the previous administration to create a conducive environment for Tigray’s future. This includes restoring the region’s political structures and creating the conditions for free and fair elections, allowing the people to choose their leaders in the same way that citizens of other regions of Ethiopia can.
One of the key mandates of the interim administration under General Tadesse’s leadership will be to facilitate conditions for communities and political parties in Tigray to participate in the broader national dialogue process. This is important in ensuring that the voices of Tigray’s people are heard and that the region’s future is shaped in a way that fulfills the aspirations of its citizens.
While General Tadesse’s leadership will be crucial in accelerating recovery, it is also important that he works closely with the federal government to achieve the remaining objectives of the Pretoria Agreement. The cooperation between the federal government and Tigray’s Interim
Administration has been pivotal in the progress made so far, and it will continue to be essential in the coming months and years.
The federal government, under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), has provided unreserved support to Tigray, facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid, restoring infrastructure, and working towards the reintegration of Tigray into Ethiopia’s political framework. This support has been vital in providing the people of Tigray with the resources they need to begin the process of rebuilding their lives.
However, there are still many obstacles to overcome. Chief among them is the lingering threat posed by rogue elements within Tigray who seek to sabotage the peace process. These elements, who are suspected of having links to foreign hostile forces, are working to derail the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement. Their actions risk prolonging the suffering of the people and hindering the region’s recovery.
It is crucial that General Tadesse and the federal government work together to identify and neutralize these elements, ensuring that the peace process remains on track. The success of the Pretoria agreement and the future of Tigray depends on the ability of all parties to overcome these challenges and focus on the common goal of peace and stability.
As Tadesse Werede takes over the leadership in Tigray, there is a renewed sense of hope among the people of the region. While the journey ahead will undoubtedly be difficult, the progress made so far demonstrates the resilience of the Tigray people and the determination of their leaders.
The legacy of Getachew Reda’s leadership will not be forgotten, and his contributions to the peace process will continue to be celebrated. However, the mission is far from accomplished. With General Tadesse at the helm, there is hope that the remaining objectives of the Pretoria agreement will be realized, and that the people of Tigray will finally be able to attain peace and dignity, free from the scars of conflict.
The future of Tigray depends on the ability of its leaders to work together, both within the region and with the federal government. With the right leadership, the vision of a peaceful, prosperous Tigray can become a reality. The journey is far from finished, but the optimism for a brighter future remains stronger than ever.
Editor’s Note: The views entertained in this article do not necessarily reflect the stance of The Ethiopian Herald
BY ERMIAS WASSIHUN
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 13 APRIL 2025
