Tigray Region Seeks Federal Intervention Following Town Seizure by TPLF Faction

The Tigray region of Ethiopia has requested federal intervention after a faction of the TPLF seized the town of Adigrat, raising concerns about a return to conflict. The region is already fraught with tensions following a recent split within the TPLF and violence stemming from their internal power struggle. Getachew Reda has called for federal support to prevent further escalation.

Ethiopia’s Tigray region has formally requested federal assistance following the recent seizure of the town of Adigrat by a faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This development has raised concerns about a potential resurgence of conflict within the already war-affected region. The TPLF, responsible for Tigray’s interim administration since 2023, emerged from a peace agreement that ended a violent two-year conflict with the federal government, a situation that resulted in considerable loss of life and displacement of citizens.

The TPLF has recently fractured into two factions, each asserting authority over the organization. On Wednesday, Getachew Reda, leader of one faction and head of Tigray’s interim administration, reported that his rival, Debretsion Gebremichael, had forcibly taken control of Adigrat. In confirmation of this takeover, Debretsion’s faction made an announcement via their official Facebook account. Concurrently, Getachew dismissed three senior army commanders, accusing them of escalating tensions within the region.

In addressing the government, Getachew emphasized the need for intervention, stating that those acting under the guise of security forces do not represent the interests of the Tigrayan people or their interim administration. He urged federal authorities to act promptly to prevent a violation of the Pretoria Agreement, signed in South Africa in 2022, and to avert further destruction in Tigray.

In summary, the situation in Ethiopia’s Tigray region has become increasingly precarious due to internal divisions within the TPLF, exemplified by the recent takeover of Adigrat. The request for federal intervention highlights the seriousness of the conflict and the potential for renewed violence. Prompt action from the federal government may be essential to uphold peace and protect the rights and safety of the Tigrayan populace.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com