Former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome Wirtu accuses Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki of exploiting internal divisions within the TPLF to undermine peace efforts, warning of a possible resurgence of conflict in Ethiopian regions. Mulatu urges international stakeholders to act against Isaias’s destabilizing maneuvers, highlighting the serious implications for regional and global stability.
Mulatu Teshome Wirtu, the former President of Ethiopia, has alleged that Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki is exploiting rifts within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) to undermine the Pretoria Peace Agreement. In his opinion piece for Al Jazeera published on February 17, Mulatu warned that these actions could reignite conflict in northern Ethiopia, jeopardizing regional stability.
Having served as Ethiopia’s leader from 2013 to 2018 and holding diplomatic roles in multiple countries, Mulatu emphasized that Isaias is maneuvering in a destructive manner. He contended that Afwerki’s collaboration with dissident factions within the TPLF poses a significant threat to the peace agreement, potentially resulting in a complete breakdown and further destabilizing the region.
Further accusations from Mulatu included claims that Isaias has organized militia operations within Ethiopia’s Amhara region and is exacerbating divisions among TPLF members. This development could dismantle the interim administration established by the peace agreement, leading to catastrophic consequences for both Ethiopia and the greater Horn of Africa.
Mulatu alluded to Eritrea’s historical involvement in conflicts across the Horn of Africa, arguing that Isaias has continually sought to instigate instability. He recounted how Eritrean forces intervened during the TPLF’s efforts to unseat Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in 2020, viewing it as an opportunity to extend their influence.
Addressing the critical need for stability in Ethiopia amidst ongoing crises in surrounding nations such as Sudan and Somalia, Mulatu warned that a chaotic expanse from the Sahel to the Horn of Africa would be detrimental. This instability could empower extremist groups and disrupt essential global trade routes.
In light of these issues, Mulatu advocates for proactive diplomatic engagement from both global and regional stakeholders to counteract those who threaten peace, particularly calling out Isaias Afwerki. He underscores that this crisis transcends an African context and represents a global challenge necessitating international attention.
In summary, former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome Wirtu warns of potential conflict resurgence due to Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki’s actions. Mulatu asserts that Isaias is exploiting divisions within the TPLF that could destabilize Ethiopia and the region. He emphasizes the importance of external diplomatic efforts to safeguard peace and prevent further chaos that could have global repercussions.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
