[By A. Abraha, Adwa]
Credit Hiwyet and DW: The Eritrean government brutal sexual voilence, war crimes and crimes against humanity against the people of Tigray
The TPLF is dysfunctional and in meltdown. It is not winning the Tigrayan people’s support anymore. The TPLF’s misguided calculations and the mishandling of the Pretoria peace agreement are fostering deep-seated suspicion in the hearts and minds of the Tigrayan people. The consequences of the TPLF’s actions have led to widespread disillusionment and hopelessness, and the path to regaining trust seems nearly impossible.
The people of Tigray are now seeking alternative leadership that can genuinely implement the peace agreement and aspirations for economic development. Without a significant change in approach, the TPLF risks further alienating its base and deepening the chasm of distrust that has developed. The TPLF leadership must apologise and resign to escape the wrath of the Tigrayan people for its treacherous betrayal for making an alliance (ፅምዶ) with the genocidal government of Eritrea and dragging Tigray into another war.
As the TPLF authoritarian rule continues against the people, who demand democracy, justice, and accountability, the TPLF faces an uncertain future amidst mounting pressure from both within and outside the region. The once unassailable grip of the TPLF on power has begun to weaken and disintegrate significantly, creating a vacuum that the regimes of Ethiopia and Eritrea seek to exploit to continue their silent genocide against the people of Tigray. This precarious situation has ignited a call for peace, as the need for a cohesive response to stop the impending war becomes increasingly urgent.
Instead of pursuing peace, the TPLF leadership and above-core generals are preparing for another war to rehabilitate their image through displays of military force that reckon with their past. Tigray cannot afford another war. The people of Tigray have repeatedly expressed their commitment to peace, not to war, and to an end to TPLF’s repressive ideology. The people of Tigray have not forgotten the destruction of war: thousands of lives were lost, civilians starved to death, women were systematically raped, cities were bombed into rubble, and the economy was in ruins and is still in a dire situation, and people are dying of starvation in makeshift Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps.
Moreover, international observers are beginning to take note, highlighting the necessity for intervention to uphold human rights and restore stability in the region. The political situation is deteriorating in Tigray, and the potential for the broader humanitarian disaster looms, making it imperative for the international community to act decisively and swiftly. Failure to respond adequately could result in irreversible consequences, not only for those directly affected in Tigray but also for regional stability as a whole. The urgency for a peaceful dialogue calls for a coordinated effort among nations and advocacy groups to provide aid and support, ensuring that the Tigrayan people are protected from human rights violations.
Accordingly, the TPLF must recognise and unreservedly apologise to the people of Tigray for the deep-seated grievances of repressions, human rights abuses, mishandling of the genocidal war, and the peace agreement. The people of Tigray are yearning for peace, democracy, justice, and accountability to reshape their freedom and liberty. The TPLF must accept the people’s demand for change and a new direction. Tigrayans can live in peace and then restore their unity and move forward to defend their survival. Tigray can begin to heal and recover from the genocidal war, creating an environment where future generations can thrive in harmony. Working together entails engaging local communities and fostering partnerships with international stakeholders, who can provide support and resources for the reconstruction of the destroyed economy.
The demand for reform is gaining momentum and could herald a new chapter in Tigray’s history, one marked by collaboration and a commitment to rebuilding the ruined economy. By cultivating an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding, the political parties can rebuild trust in a collective vision for Tigray’s national interest, leading to sustainable peace and development. Such efforts require commitment to inclusivity and hearing all voices.
As Tigray embarks on this journey to peace, it is vital to establish mechanisms for accountability and reconciliation that can help heal the wounds of the past and unite the region in its quest for stability and prosperity, where everyone plays a role in shaping their destiny. This collaborative approach empowers individuals and nurtures ownership over Tigray’s progress towards democracy and economic development. Ultimately, it is through collective effort and mutual respect that lasting change can be achieved, paving the way for harmonious coexistence and equitable economic benefits for all Tigrayans.