[By Yerega]
The Paradox of General Feseha Kidanu’s Peacekeeping Legacy General Feseha Kidanu, renowned for his extensive service in United Nations peacekeeping missions across Abyei (UNISFA), Darfur (UNAMID), Somalia (UNOSOM I), Liberia (UNOMIL), Rwanda, and Burundi, was once a symbol of peace and stability on the global stage.
However, his recent role as the head of peace and security in Tigray’s interim regional administration tells a starkly different story. Despite his decorated career as a peacekeeper, General Feseha has drawn sharp criticism for his failure to leverage his experience to support Tigray’s recovery and democratic transition.
Instead, his actions have revealed a troubling shift from a peacekeeper to a “peace spoiler,” prioritising narrow political interests over the region’s broader needs.
1. From Peacekeeper to Peace Spoiler—A Betrayal of Tigray’s Interests and Failure to Maintain Peace and Security in Tigray
General Feseha’s tenure in the interim government has been marked by a series of alarming failures:
- Alignment with the failed Debretsion Gebremichael Splinter Group and his allegiance to this faction has undermined the Pretoria Peace Agreement, perpetuated instability, and betrayed the aspirations of the Tigrayan people for peace and recovery.
- Intimidation of Tigrayan youth rather than empowering Tigray’s younger generation to lead Tigray recovery. General Feseha has reportedly used his position to suppress and intimidate youth demanding democratic reform and accountability.
Protection of corruption and criminal networks under his leadership, criminal activities have flourished:
- Theft of Humanitarian Aid: The organised theft of over 7,000 tons of wheat—enough to feed 450,000 people for a month—has deepened the humanitarian crisis and tarnished Tigray’s reputation.
- Illegal Exploitation of Natural Resources: Precious metals, including gold, are being trafficked illegally, depriving Tigray of critical resources for economic recovery.
- Military Scrap Metal Thefts: Syndicates have looted military equipment, further crippling the region’s reconstruction efforts.
- Ongoing Violence Against Women: Reports of rape, kidnapping, and killings of Tigrayan women remain unresolved, reflecting the administration’s failure to protect its citizens.
2. A Legacy of Neglect and Betrayal, Failure to Protect Tigray’s National Interests and Territorial Integrity
General Feseha’s neglect has left rural villages devastated and essential infrastructure—such as water pumps and medical equipment—either stolen or destroyed. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) continue to suffer due to his inability to ensure their safe return.
General Feseha has stalled Tigray’s recovery and compromised the legitimacy of the interim government and resistance to reform and transition by shielding corrupt politicians and sabotaging accountability efforts.
3. The Irresponsible Act of Betrayal Root Causes of Betrayal
General Feseha’s actions stem from:
- Loyalty to the TPLF Splinter Group and his allegiance to Debretsion Gebremichael and his faction has prioritised party politics over Tigray’s national interests.
- Political Partiality and his biased leadership protects the interests of a select few at the expense of broader regional stability.
- Disregard for the Tigrayan people, General Feseha’s self-serving approach has left the people of Tigray to bear the brunt of continued insecurity and instability.
4. The Consequences of Inaction: Erosion of Public Trust
General Feseha’s leadership has eroded trust in Tigray’s interim government, deepening resentment among citizens who feel abandoned by their leaders.
Missed Opportunities for Recovery Corruption, criminal networks, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis have worsened under his watch, undermining efforts to rebuild Tigray and restore hope.
5. A Call for Accountability and Reform
General Feseha Kidanu’s journey—from a celebrated UN peacekeeper to a divisive figure in Tigray’s interim government—serves as a cautionary tale. His inability to uphold principles of peace, security, and justice has deepened Tigray’s wounds. Tigray requires leaders who prioritize its national interests over party politics, advocate for democratic reforms, and tirelessly work to ensure peace and security for all.
General Feseha must be held accountable, and urgent steps must be taken to replace him with a leader committed to Tigray’s recovery and the aspirations of its people.