Tigray leader Getachew Reda warns of renewed civil conflict as a rival TPLF faction seizes control of Adigrat. He calls for administrative support from the federal government and highlights international backing for de-escalation under the Pretoria Agreement. The region faces turmoil due to internal power struggles and military coup attempts.
In Ethiopia, Getachew Reda, President of the Tigray Regional Interim Administration, has expressed grave concerns about the potential for renewed civil war in Tigray following the capture of Adigrat by a breakaway faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This faction, which split from TPLF last August, has purportedly formed connections with external forces, notably Eritrea, heightening fears of escalating conflict.
Reda accused elements within the local military of orchestrating a coup to undermine the interim administration and the Pretoria Peace Agreement. He has called upon the federal government to extend administrative support, emphasizing that his appeal does not seek military intervention.
In response to the rising tensions, 25 foreign missions, including those from the United States, Japan, and the European Union, have issued a statement reinforcing their backing for the cessation of hostilities as stipulated in the Pretoria Agreement. The statement encourages all parties to prioritize de-escalation efforts in the region, highlighting the importance of peace.
The backdrop of this crisis includes the division of the TPLF into rival factions, following the Pretoria Agreement’s signing, which has resulted in the rejection of the interim administration and aggressive actions to seize control of key areas in Tigray. Reda specifically noted the forcible takeover of Adigrat by Debretsion Gebremichael’s faction, who have confirmed this shift in power.
Reda further noted dismissals of three senior army commanders, accusing them of stoking internal conflict. He reiterated that the rehabilitation process essential to the Pretoria Agreement remains obstructed due to groups prioritizing personal political ambitions, deepening instability in Tigray.
The situation in Tigray remains precarious, with leadership warnings of renewed conflict following power struggles within the TPLF. International support for peace underscores the need for de-escalation. Observers are urged to monitor the evolving dynamics as leadership disputes jeopardize regional stability and the adherence to the Pretoria Agreement.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
