The Tigray interim government has called for federal intervention after a faction of the TPLF took control of major towns, raising fears of renewed conflict. Fragile peace is threatened by internal TPLF divisions and injuries reported during clashes. Calls for international monitoring of the situation emphasize the urgency of preventing another crisis in the region.
The interim government of Ethiopia’s Tigray region has urgently requested assistance from the federal government following the seizure of two significant towns by a faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This recent development has led to numerous injuries among civilians and heightened concerns about the risk of a renewed civil conflict.
On Tuesday, the TPLF faction garnered control of Adigrat, Tigray’s second-largest town, replacing the interim government’s appointed administrator with their own candidate. Subsequently, on Wednesday night, they seized Adi-Gudem, a town adjacent to the regional capital, Mekele. Clashes occurred in Adi-Gudem when forces attempted to occupy a government facility, resulting in injuries.
The TPLF had previously engaged in a devastating two-year conflict against federal forces, which culminated in a peace agreement signed in November 2022. This agreement led to the establishment of a TPLF-led interim government following severe losses, including hundreds of thousands of fatalities and mass displacement, with many facing dire food shortages.
Since the end of the conflict, the TPLF has experienced fragmentation. In October, TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael expelled key figures, including interim government head Getachew Reda. In response, Reda suspended four military commanders whom he suspected of supporting Gebremichael’s faction.
A statement from the Tigray Communication Affairs Bureau stated that the region could be on the verge of another crisis. Reda characterized the recent maneuvers by the TPLF as indicative of a “potential coup attempt.” He has called upon the international community, which played a crucial role in guaranteeing the Pretoria Peace Agreement, to monitor the escalating tensions closely.
Conversely, TPLF deputy chairman Amanuel Assefa asserted that the ongoing crises are not connected to the Pretoria Agreement but are primarily issues of law enforcement. He maintained that the TPLF and the Tigray forces are the legitimate holders of the Agreement, dismissing the likelihood of any actions that could contravene it.
In summary, the Tigray region is witnessing significant turmoil due to the seizure of key towns by a faction of the TPLF, leading to injuries and fears of renewed conflict. The calls for federal intervention highlight the urgency of the situation, as the TPLF’s actions have led to concerns over potential instability. The responses from both the interim government and TPLF leadership illustrate the complexities of the ongoing political landscape in Tigray, emphasizing the need for careful observation and international involvement to prevent further escalation.
Original Source: apnews.com
