[TLM Editorial Viewpoint]
Tension and conflict among our leaders in various regions have historically characterized the elimination of political opponents in Tigray. The best we can hope for is to reconcile and compromise our conflicting personal ambitions to live in peace and harmony. All Tegrawot must reach consensus on the key issues confronting the country, despite our differences. TLM editors look forward to the challenging goal of achieving nationwide harmony by resolving the differences that threaten to divide us.
Considering the unpredictable circumstances in Tigray, we assert that the primary objective should be safeguarding the nation’s stability and upholding civil order, rather than reinstating aging leaders of the TPLF—who were instrumental in Tigray’s conflicts—and participating in questionable reconciliation initiatives, which we have attracted criticism. It is essential to eschew populist propaganda aimed at political gain.
Our previous writings may be perceived as repetitive, overused, and superficial, bordering on naivety. We invite you to enhance our ideas rather than react adversely. A typical way to establish a leader’s legitimacy is through elections. Historically, all human groups in their nascent stages of organized society engaged in direct democracy, where members debated issues and collectively determined actions. This consensus-based approach underpins modern democratic elections, which the TPLF chose not to adopt.
Although the removal of TPLF leaders who facilitated Eritrea’s oppressive regime entering our sacred Tigray remains the utmost priority, it is also essential to initiate a fresh start aimed at establishing political organizations composed of indigenous Tegrawot who are autonomous and not proxies or overly ambitious octogenarians. At present, the administration under General Taddese should convene an emergency special conference with all opposition parties in Mekelle. Let us commence work on these specific measures.
While grievances may be voiced throughout the day, such actions are unlikely to attract highly educated and experienced potential leaders from the current TPLF leadership. There is now clear evidence demonstrating how such a formidable organization has collapsed internally, thereby facilitating the rise of inexperienced young Oromos from OPDO to assume leadership roles. No concluding remarks are provided here; instead, this serves as a preliminary suggestion for initiating a new and challenging liberation movement.
Please recognize that the TPLF and its affiliates have caused more harm to Tigray than Mengistu Hailemariam during his seventeen-year tenure. Meles and his associates nearly eradicated all potential leaders within the TPLF, especially those with learning and leadership skills, leaving the TPLF significantly diminished.
Let us be candid; overall, the Tegrawot diaspora displays a lack of discipline. Generally, the Tegrawot diaspora behaves like an undisciplined child who has not faced the harsh realities imposed by an authoritarian ruler.
Reconciliation is urgently needed to maintain our unity and focus on development initiatives. The federalism experienced over the past two decades has engendered disorder and division, which must be rectified. The sole cohesive entity capable of accomplishing this national objective is our collective unity.
If consensus is reached on the current requirements at this pivotal moment, there is no justification for manipulating political bias.
The concept of national reconciliation in Tigray is considered socially acceptable, provided it is grounded in honest dialogue. Individuals who observe Tigray remotely and indiscriminately incite discord by criticizing it exemplify a lack of genuine concern for the region. Discourse on critical issues must advance without interruption.
This has been the stance of numerous so-called supporters, such as UTNA in Diaspora politics, whose intention appears to be to incite trouble. We must recognize this threat and take appropriate measures now, while an opportunity remains. Unless the bigots and their allies are imprudent enough to pursue a destructive course by disenfranchising the very individuals they aim to empower.
As editors at Tigray Liberty Media, we possess a fiduciary obligation to acknowledge the challenges faced by the Tigrayans and to promote the progression of constructive discourse. In diaspora politics, there is limited willingness to confront the reality that targeting the Tigrayans based on their Aweraja, rather than their principles, is ultimately counterproductive.
The spirit of unity demonstrated during the genocidal war, when political differences were forgotten, must be repeated. Our response and commitment will determine the very future of our country. The kindness of spirit that Tegrawot are capable of showing in times of crisis and the sense of compromise will prevail at last. This is truly a time of testing for our democracy.