Residents of Tigray Region Fear Renewed Conflict Amid Rising Tensions

Residents in Mekelle, Ethiopia’s Tigray region, fear a return to conflict amidst rising tensions that threaten the fragile peace established in late 2022. Many are preparing for the worst by relocating or stockpiling supplies, as historical traumas resurface. The political struggle between factions intensifies, raising concerns over territorial disputes and relations with neighboring Eritrea. The community expresses exhaustion over the prospect of renewed violence, yet daily life persists amid widespread anxiety.

Residents in Mekelle, the chief city of Ethiopia’s Tigray region, express profound concerns about the potential resurgence of conflict. Following a peace agreement in late 2022 that ended a brutal civil war, tensions have escalated, sparking fears that the fragile peace may collapse. Many locals are taking precautions, either opting to flee to the federal capital, Addis Ababa, or stockpiling emergency supplies. “It is all because of the anxiety,” stated a concerned resident.

Tseganesh Kassa, an ex-combatant who suffered severe injuries during the civil war, articulates her dread of future conflict. She laments the irreparable damage caused by war to her family, stating, “I do not want to see that again. Displaced people living in makeshift camps have not returned to their homes. No one can handle another war.”

Tigray served as the focal point of the conflict, which subsided following a peace agreement between Ethiopia’s federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). An interim administration was established, responsible for managing the region until elections took place. However, internal power struggles have emerged, with accusations flying between the TPLF and the interim administration regarding attempts to seize power and inadequate support for ex-fighters.

The dispute over territories previously administered by Tigray, which are now under different control, exacerbates the situation. Each faction accuses the other of treason and involvement with external actors, raising concerns about the possible dissolution of the peace agreement and the risk of renewed conflict, particularly with Eritrea.

Relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea had soured after Eritrea’s absence from the peace deal. Accusations of atrocities during the civil war persist, with Eritrean forces allegedly committing severe human rights violations. In light of these tensions, Tigray’s interim administration demands the return of disputed territories currently under Amhara’s control, per the peace agreement.

Hopes of lasting peace are further complicated by Ethiopia’s aspirations for sea access, which has strained relations with Eritrea. Growing tensions alarm many, with fears of a return to wartime conditions looming.

In Mekelle, many residents voice exhaustion regarding the prospect of renewed violence. “The youths are tired of violence,” stated Tesfay Gebreabgzi, in his twenties, reflecting a widespread sentiment. Despite their traumatic past, there is a mixed response to current conditions in Mekelle; day-to-day businesses continue operating, and the population is keenly aware of developments. Young people frequent cafes, eagerly monitoring news from Tigray’s interim administration as they anticipate the future with trepidation.

The residents of Mekelle, Tigray, are gripped by anxiety and fear of another war, as tensions rise and rival factions engage in power struggles. While the peace agreement reached in 2022 has yet to fully stabilize the region, many individuals express fatigue over conflict. The atmosphere reflects a blend of vigilance and hope against the backdrop of a fragile peace, with citizens closely following political developments as they yearn for stability and recovery.

Original Source: www.bbc.com