Residents in Mekelle, Tigray fear renewed conflict due to rising tensions after a fragile peace agreement. The community is grappling with memories of the previous brutal civil war which resulted in significant loss. Political struggles and strained relations with Eritrea add to their concerns, prompting many to prepare for potential emergencies while trying to maintain a semblance of normal life.
Residents of Mekelle, the capital of Ethiopia’s Tigray region, express apprehension over the potential resurgence of conflict, as tensions threaten the delicate peace established through a 2022 agreement. Following a devastating civil war that resulted in roughly 500,000 casualties, many residents are considering fleeing to the federal capital, Addis Ababa, or preparing for emergencies by withdrawing their savings.
Ex-combatant Tseganesh Kassa, who suffered severe injuries during the war, articulates her fears, stating, “I do not want to see that again. No-one can handle another war.” The Tigray conflict escalated tensions between Ethiopia’s federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), leading to a fragile power struggle that could disrupt the peace.
Accusations of power grabs and failures to assist displaced individuals further compound the crisis. Notably, disputes continue over territories previously under Tigrayan control, raising the stakes for renewed hostility. Challenges persist not only internally but also with Eritrea, where relations have soured due to Eritrean troops allegedly remaining within Tigray’s borders and potential aspirations for a renewed conflict.
Residents, weary from the scars of the previous war, echo sentiments of fatigue regarding violence. Tesfay Gebreabgzi, a local shoe-shiner, emphasizes that youth are exhausted from fighting, saying, “Now there is only fatigue.” Haimanot Gebremariam, whose son suffered permanent injuries during the war, stresses the need to avoid returning to the dark days of conflict.
Despite the lingering unease, Mekelle’s daily life shows some signs of normalcy, with businesses operating and a limited security presence. However, local residents remain vigilant, closely monitoring statements from political leaders. A palpable shadow of fear looms, as people await developments that could dictate Tigray’s immediate future, illustrating a community grappling with the remnants of its past while bracing for what may come next.
In summary, the residents of Tigray’s Mekelle face renewed fears of conflict as tensions rise, threatening the fragile peace achieved after devastating civil war. With lingering discontent among political factions and complicated relations with Eritrea, the path ahead remains uncertain. The community, still healing from past traumas, watches closely for signs of further instability while striving for normalcy in their daily lives.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
