Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis Standard2
Published on 2024-04-16 12:20:47
Following recent violent clashes in Raya Alamata district, located in the South Tigray Zone, a significant number of civilians and administrative officials have sought refuge in Kobo town. The estimated number of displaced individuals ranges between 3,000 and 5,000. Many of these individuals have found shelter at Ewket Chora Primary and Secondary School in Kobo town, while others have begun returning to their homes.
According to local residents, most of the displaced individuals from Raya Alamata are primarily Amharic speakers. One resident of Kobo town shared her experience of providing shelter to five individuals from Alamata in her home. These individuals contacted their families in Alamata and were informed that the situation had stabilized, prompting them to prepare for their return.
A senior figure from Kobo town revealed that commanders of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) instructed armed militia members to disarm upon their arrival in the area. However, the militias refused to disarm as long as the opposing faction remained armed, leading to a standstill in the disarmament process. The ENDF has taken control of both Alamata and Korem towns, with local administrators returning to their positions.
Reports indicate that internally displaced persons (IDPs) of Tigrayan origin, who were previously displaced from the area, have also begun returning. The cause of the violence remains disputed, with conflicting narratives from local officials and residents. The conflict allegedly began with “TPLF forces” instigating clashes in the Addis Berhan neighborhood, according to some sources. Others claim that IDPs from Raya marched to ENDF checkpoints in support of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, leading to confrontation.
In response to these events, the National Movement of Amhara (NaMA) issued a statement accusing the TPLF of invading the region and urged the federal and Amhara regional governments to cease the assault on the populace. NaMA emphasized the need for unity with the ENDF to resist the TPLF’s incursion. Meanwhile, the interim administration of Tigray denied any conflict with the federal government or the Amhara region, attributing the unrest to parties attempting to disrupt peace efforts.
Overall, the situation in Raya Alamata remains complex and volatile, with displaced individuals returning and ongoing tensions between various factions. The involvement of armed militias, conflicting narratives, and the displacement of IDPs add layers of complexity to the ongoing crisis in the region. The resolution of these issues will require coordinated efforts from all parties involved to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population.
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