The Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) signed between the TPLF and the Federal Government of Ethiopia remains precarious, with both sides exhibiting signs of distrust and escalating tensions. A commitment to CoHA and the implementation of it will be essential if they hope to avoid a return to conflict and work towards a sustainable peace. Without genuine efforts to rebuild trust in the implementation of CoHA, the likelihood of renewed hostilities grows. Neither sides will gain from going to war. A peaceful dialogue is the only way for both sides to avoid loss of lives and destruction to the livelihoods.
The Federal Government must restore the constitutional order as per Article 1(2) and Article 9(2) of the CoHA. Both parties must engage in meaningful negotiations that prioritise the restoration of Tigray’s territorial integrity and the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) safely to their homes. As of Article 11, the mediating countries must return to play their crucial role to monitor and verify the implementation and compliance of the CoHA. Only through dialogue and collaborative efforts can a lasting peace be achieved, ensuring stability and prosperity for all involved.
To achieve this will require an unwavering commitment from both the Tigray leadership and the Federal Government to uphold the principles outlined in the Pretoria peace agreement. Additionally, it is imperative that mediating countries provide support to foster an environment conducive to justice for the victims of war, reconciliation, reconstruction, and reparation for Tigray. This support should not only focus on immediate humanitarian needs but also on long-term development strategies that empower the victims of war and local communities. By addressing the root causes of the conflict, acknowledging the atrocity crimes and devising victim-centred transitional justice and accountability, one can strengthen the foundation for sustainable peace, which benefits both Tigray and the federal government’s war-ravaged economy.
In this context, collaboration between Tigray leadership, the federal government, and mediators will be crucial to ensure that the voices of the affected populations are heard and integrated into the rebuilding process. This process can bridge divides and promote social cohesion, ultimately paving the way for a lasting peace. Fostering inclusive dialogue among diverse stakeholders will strengthen trust and facilitate collective efforts towards recovery. Such engagement not only nurtures understanding but also empowers citizens to take active roles in shaping their own futures, thereby reinforcing the resilience of the country as a whole.
Tigray and the Federal Government should work collaboratively in finding common ground in the national interest to make peace that addresses the root of the conflict and rebuild the damages caused by the war. This collaborative spirit is essential for nurturing a sense of trust, reconciliation, belonging and ownership, which are vital ingredients for returning to normalcy and sustainable development in the aftermath of conflict.