The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has denied allegations of secret talks with Eritrea, labeling them as falsehoods meant to hinder the Pretoria Agreement. The TPLF insisted on its commitment to peace and accused certain groups of attempting to undermine the ongoing peace process amidst internal TPLF divisions and external pressures. Former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome raised concerns over Eritrea’s potential exploitation of TPLF factions to destabilize the agreement.
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has categorically dismissed claims regarding secretive interactions between its forces and the Eritrean government, describing such allegations as “completely untrue” and lacking any credible substantiation. In a statement issued on February 26, the TPLF accused media outlets like Africa Intelligence and Oromia Media Network, along with unnamed Ethiopian officials, of disseminating these “fabricated falsehoods” in an effort to undermine the Pretoria Agreement. According to TPLF, these claims are orchestrated by a so-called “national betrayal group,” which is attempting to thwart the ongoing peace process.
The TPLF’s response follows a report by Africa Intelligence, which suggested that Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) members have increased their contacts with Eritrean military officials, culminating in a purported confidential meeting in Asmara. It was reported that during this meeting, Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki assured TDF members of his potential support in a future conflict with Ethiopia. These developments have raised concerns among Western embassies closely watching the situation for any signs of renewed conflict.
Despite the controversies, the TPLF reiterated its commitment to the Pretoria Agreement, stating that the people of Tigray and their military forces possess no ulterior motives beyond its full implementation. The party accused certain actors of promoting misinformation aimed at confusing both the public and international community, emphasizing their dedication to executing the agreement effectively. Furthermore, the TPLF underscored the “injustices” faced by Tigrayans while committing to peace despite external and internal pressures.
The TPLF affirmed its determination to maintain a principled stance on peace and vowed to pursue harmonious relations with neighboring states. They urged all parties to respect the Pretoria Agreement as a critical element in addressing regional and national challenges. This statement emerges amidst heightened internal fractures within the TPLF, particularly between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Interim Administration President Getachew Reda, raising fears of increasing instability.
Adding to the tension, former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome accused Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki of attempting to exploit TPLF divisions to undermine the Pretoria Agreement. He warned that these actions risked rekindling conflict in northern Ethiopia, commenting that Isaias is engaging in “destructive” maneuvers alongside discontented elements within the TPLF, threatening the stability of the peace deal.
In summary, the TPLF has firmly rejected claims of secret negotiations with Eritrea, branding them as unfounded and harmful to the peace process outlined by the Pretoria Agreement. As concerns grow regarding internal divisions within the TPLF and potential external manipulations, the situation remains precarious. The party continues to advocate for commitment to peace and regional stability, urging all stakeholders to focus on the implementation of the existing agreements.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
