[TLM Editorial Viewpoint]
The leadership of the TPLF bears the responsibility to safeguard the people of Tigray from genocide and starvation, and it is imperative that they fulfil this obligation. Furthermore, there exists incontrovertible evidence and eyewitness accounts substantiating their participation in the theft of aid grains, which is undeniably shameful and disheartening. Nonetheless, such actions do not exempt the TPLF from accountability and legal prosecution.
During the famine of 1984-1985, the TPLF received humanitarian aid from international donors through the Relief Society of Tigray (REST). Additionally, newly discovered evidence, along with interviews and testimonials collected over numerous years, indicates that the TPLF’s exploitation of famine relief efforts extended beyond merely utilising humanitarian assistance to procure military weaponry and sustain the Front’s armed forces.
Unfortunately, 95% of this aid was diverted to support political agendas, leaving only 5% for famine victims. According to the UK government, the diversion and withholding of food aid for military and political purposes led to the deaths of between 400,000 and 1 million people. This tragic situation was worsened by deliberate actions from the Mengistu regime and the TPLF, which amounted to acts of genocide and crimes against humanity against those suffering from the famine.
During the devastating 2020–2022 conflict and siege, the Ethiopian and Eritrean governments, along with the TPLF, unfortunately diverted humanitarian aid and used food supplies for political purposes and as tools of warfare. As a result, the U.S. State Department reported in September 2021 that “more than 5 million people needed humanitarian help, with at least 1 million living in famine-like conditions,” and “estimated that between 150,000 and 200,000 people died due to starvation.” Sadly, the TPLF and the Ethiopian government have failed to fulfil their responsibilities to save lives or ensure that aid reaches those in need during this critical time.
The heartbreaking scenes of artificial starvation in Hitsats and other IDP camps in Northwest Tigray are a stark reminder of a tragic situation. It’s deeply painful to see how the TPLF-led administration appears responsible for once again causing suffering by deliberately starving the population and using them as pawns in their political games. It’s clear that the TPLF has let down the people of Tigray by failing to fulfil its duties and responsibilities, adding another sorrowful chapter to Tigray history. For Tigray to move forward with economic growth and build a true democracy, the people of Tigray need to come together, unite, and work to end this man-made famine by removing the TPLF from power.
Once injured or harmed, individuals often bear these emotional wounds internally, perpetuating a challenging cycle of despair. Victims of famine frequently withdraw due to fear of natural forces. It is therefore crucial for compassionate governments to prioritise safeguarding their populations through effective planning and resilient infrastructure. Simultaneously, they should also dedicate efforts to healing the psychological scars of genocidal war and famine survivors, empowering them to become hopeful, confident, and proactive contributors to the economy.
The primary obligation of every Tigrayan should be to unite and address the challenges presented by leaders such as Debretsion and his associates, who seem to be engaging recklessly with the genocidal Eritrean regime. Significant concessions have already been made, including ceding land and interests in Tigray—a perilous decision akin to playing with fire. It is crucial to recognise that appeasement is not the appropriate course of action. It is imperative to establish a government capable of fostering national pride and safeguarding our cherished country. The tragedy unfolding in Tigray serves as a stark warning for Tigrayans to unite and establish a new transitional government—one genuinely committed to the interest and integrity of Tigray. It is an inspiring call for a new chapter of national renewal, aimed at preventing future calamities.
We call on all decent human beings, responsible human rights advocates, and patriotic Tigrayans to assist the great and ancient people of Tigray and to protect them from genocide and man-made hunger. Shame on us all for remaining silent while the genocide continues right before our eyes and our people die of starvation orchestrated by corrupt leaders. We urge everyone to demand that the Ethiopian government, the TPLF leaders, and the renegade generals must be held accountable for crimes against humanity.