Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis Standard2
Published on 2024-03-05 12:30:43
Abraham Belay (PhD) is the Minister of Defense in Ethiopia, and he recently announced the government’s plans to address the situation in western Tigray, which is currently under the control of Amhara forces. The main focus of the strategy is to ensure the safe return of displaced individuals to their homes and to create a conducive environment for local elections and a potential referendum to resolve the territorial dispute.
In an interview with the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation, Minister Belay stated that federal forces would maintain control over the areas in question to facilitate the repatriation process and oversee the conduct of local elections. The ultimate goal is to pave the way for a referendum that would definitively settle the territorial dispute. Minister Belay emphasized the importance of peaceful resolution and highlighted ongoing discussions with stakeholders and collaboration with regional authorities to ensure the safe return of displaced persons.
Recognizing the challenges faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs) in returning home, Minister Belay proposed the establishment of a temporary administrative structure in western Tigray, supported by direct budget allocation and local empowerment, until the referendum can take place. He also mentioned the formation of a joint committee to explore alternative solutions to the problem and promote collaboration.
The government’s approach has been met with mixed reactions, as the interim administration of Tigray has expressed concerns about the lack of effective implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) signed in November 2022. Recent discussions between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the Tigray interim administration have aimed to assess the progress made in implementing the Pretoria Peace Agreement, with a particular focus on addressing the challenges faced by IDPs and residents in areas under the control of Amhara and Eritrean forces.
President Getachew Reda, representing the Tigray Interim Administration, has raised concerns about the demographic changes in western Tigray and the continuous displacement of its inhabitants, questioning the feasibility of conducting a referendum in such circumstances. This has created a divergence of opinions between the federal government, which views a referendum as a potential solution, and the interim administration of Tigray, which seeks to engage solely through the African Union Panel in future discussions on the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
Minister Belay also addressed the situation in areas of Tigray currently under the control of Eritrean forces, indicating that a specialized committee would work towards finding a solution in line with the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA).
Overall, the government’s efforts to address the situation in western Tigray reflect a commitment to peaceful resolution and collaboration with stakeholders. However, challenges remain in navigating the complexities of the territorial dispute and ensuring the safe return of displaced persons to their homes. Ongoing dialogue and cooperation between the federal government, regional authorities, and the interim administration of Tigray will be essential in finding a sustainable solution to the crisis in the region.
Read the original article on Addis Standard
