Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has recommended a virtual submission of candidates for Tigray’s new interim president due to rising tensions after Getachew Reda’s ouster from the TPLF. Getachew has been in Addis Ababa for two weeks following his expulsion, and internal power struggles within the TPLF are becoming pronounced. He has called for federal intervention over alleged Eritrean support for another faction’s leader, Debretsion Gebremichael.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has proposed that the citizens of Tigray submit candidates via email for a new interim president amidst escalating tensions following the ouster of Getachew Reda by a faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Abiy’s suggestion aligns with his recent endorsement of the current interim administration’s leadership until a nationwide election is conducted.
Getachew Reda, who was appointed last year as part of a peace agreement that ended a two-year conflict between federal forces and Tigrayan fighters, has been in Addis Ababa for the past two weeks after his expulsion from the TPLF. His removal occurred after a rival faction captured a crucial town, exacerbating internal disputes within the party.
The internal conflict within the TPLF became evident in August when a significant party congress took place without Getachew’s presence. This division resulted in one faction supporting Getachew while another was led by Debretsion Gebremichael, a longstanding TPLF leader. Consequently, Debretsion’s faction ousted Getachew, although the federal government has not acknowledged this change.
Following these developments, Getachew has called for federal intervention, alleging that Eritrea is backing Debretsion’s faction, a claim that Debretsion’s camp denies. This unfolding political dynamic poses serious concerns regarding stability and conflict in the Tigray region.
In conclusion, the political climate in Tigray is increasingly volatile as Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed suggests a virtual voting process for a new interim president. The recent ouster of Getachew Reda highlights the severe power struggles within the TPLF, with divisions that threaten the fragile peace established after years of conflict. Calls for federal intervention and accusations of external backing further complicate this situation, underscoring the urgent need for stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr