TPLF Denies “Secret Talks” With Eritrea, Calls Claims Fabricated

The TPLF denied allegations of secret talks with Eritrea, branding them as unfounded. The party accused certain media outlets and unnamed officials of spreading falsehoods aimed at destabilizing the Pretoria Agreement. Concerns about renewed hostilities have emerged amid reports of increased contact between Tigray military forces and Eritrean officials, while internal divisions within TPLF add to the instability. TPLF maintains its commitment to peace despite these challenges.

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has denied allegations regarding “secret negotiations” with the Eritrean government, labeling these claims as “completely untrue” and devoid of evidence. A statement released on February 26 challenged reports from media outlets, including Africa Intelligence and Oromia Media Network (OMN), which TPLF accused of disseminating “fabricated falsehoods” aimed at undermining the Pretoria Agreement. TPLF suggested that such accusations stem from a “national betrayal group” engaged in a conspiracy against the peace process.

This denial followed media reports indicating that senior members of the Tigray Defence Forces were allegedly increasing contacts with Eritrean officials. These reports claimed that discussions initiated along the extensive border culminated in a confidential meeting in Asmara, during which Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki assured TDF officers of his protection amid potential conflicts with Ethiopia. Such interactions have raised alarm among Western embassies, which fear a resurgence of hostilities.

In its statement, TPLF emphasized that both the party and the Tigray military forces are focused solely on implementing the Pretoria Agreement. TPLF accused unnamed entities of promoting “fabricated accusations” that aim to confuse the public and obstruct the agreement’s execution. The party underscored its commitment to peace and firmly stated, “We will not lose hope in the peace process.”

TPLF reiterated its dedication to peaceful relations with neighboring states while urging all stakeholders to take the Pretoria Agreement seriously, framing it as critical for addressing regional and national challenges. Tensions within the TPLF have escalated, given the divisions between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Interim Administration President Getachew Reda, leading to concerns over instability within Tigray.

Warnings have been issued by former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome, who accused President Isaias of attempting to exploit divisions within TPLF to destabilize the Pretoria Agreement. In an Al Jazeera opinion piece, he suggested that Isaias is enacting destructive maneuvering that could jeopardize the peace deal and disrupt the stability of the region.

In conclusion, the TPLF has categorically rejected accusations of engaging in secret talks with Eritrea, framing these claims as unfounded and a distraction from ongoing peace efforts. Despite internal divisions and external pressures, TPLF remains committed to implementing the Pretoria Agreement, viewing it as crucial for regional stability. The recent tensions highlight the precarious nature of peace in the region and the need for collaborative efforts toward lasting resolution.

Original Source: addisstandard.com