[TLM Editorial Viewpoint]
We can all agree that there is a great need for peace in our region, but the question is how to achieve it. We are confronted by a basic principle of trust. The TPLF and Shaebia trusted a strategy they believed would help them win against the PP government of Abiy Ahmed through their unlikely alliance called Tsemedo. The results of this approach could be disastrous, and such a situation must be prevented. That’s why standing up in opposition is so important, and having any opposition at all is better than having none, as it will have far-reaching consequences for Ethiopia’s future stability.
It might be justified to be genuinely worried about the people of Tigray’s security, even if it’s distracted by imagining a worst-case scenario. The alliance (Tsemedo) is so intimidating that it leaves no space for debate or contemplation. Maybe the focus should have been on identifying who, in the fight for the nation’s soul, was seeking consensus rather than conflict. The TPLF’s alliance with Shaebia and Fano against Abiy Ahmed’s government might seem tactically advantageous, particularly for the TPLF and its supporters, but it overlooks the potential threat to the people of Tigray if the alliance forces remove Abiy Ahmed from power and what guarantee Tigray has from Shaebia and Fano turning against it and the TPLF. The TPLF is sleepwalking with its eyes shut, ignoring the greatest threat it may come from Shaebia and Fano.
Since Eritrean independence, a similar chaotic situation sparked a war with Eritrea, leading to the loss of millions of lives, all to keep those in power. Why should we believe it will be different this time or in the near future? Ultimately, an alliance should depend on building trust with the people and a written agreement between the allied parties. Unfortunately, we’ve been operating with a significant trust deficit for too long! The TPLF and its supporters overlook the danger posed by Shaebia and Fano following Abiy Ahmed’s fall. Both will redirect their efforts from Tigray’s north and south to complete their unfinished genocide plans. The TPLF and its supporters’ inability to see what’s coming is reckless, and this misguided judgement risks unleashing even more severe atrocities against Tigray. In a region characterized by shifting alliances driven by authoritarian rule and totalitarian power interests, as observed during and following the genocidal war on Tigray, the TPLF appears to have failed to learn any lessons, seemingly blinded by greed, ignorance, and power struggles above the people of Tigray’s peace and security.
The Alliance (Tsemedo) should be challenged to encourage reflection rather than provide definitive answers. Every Tigrayan ought to be motivated to actively participate in all aspects of our diverse commitments to one another. Those with significant insights and a broad perspective on society should share their opinions and invite others to participate openly, without fear of criticism or insult.
Tigray’s security is at stake. Silence is not an option when the TPLF has chosen the dangerous alliances and war over the Pretoria peace agreement. Remaining silent lets a few loud voices dominate and undermine Tigray’s survival, which can lead to an erase of our history, values, and identity. By actively engaging in our shared hopes, we counter deception, take control of our narratives, and ultimately build a strong and unified consensus. Together, we can cultivate a powerful dialogue that not only reflects our true aspirations but also strengthens our resolve to protect our future.
Not all opinions are equally influential. People who are fortunate enough to share their thoughts or concerns with those who are unable to speak to ease fears, correct misunderstandings, address injustices, dispel doubts, and eliminate uncertainties. Ideas often lead to other ideas, and through this process, some may be moved from indifference or convinced to change their views for the collective benefit.
Initially, Shaebia and Fano committed the most brutal genocide in Tigray, evidenced by detailed documentation. Since Shabia’s goal to eradicate Tigray remains unchanged, and Fano continues to rhetorically claim Raya and Western Tigray as part of their territory, the TPLF alliance with Shaebia and Fano may probably bring back both genocidaires to reconstitute their genocidal interests of eliminating Tigray or cause Tigray to split it apart permanently.
The unholy alliance (Tsemedo), whether it meant to make life easier or harder for each other or to maintain a miserable status quo, has constantly challenged us. Let’s remind ourselves again of the PP, Shaebia, and Fano genocide crimes that have inflicted pain, cost many lives, and left unforgettable scars on the people of Tigray emotionally, economically, politically, and socially. All Tigrayans should work in unison in stopping this dangerous alliance (Tsemedo) to prevent the worst second genocide in Tigray. The only feasible option for Tigray is pursuing the full implementation of the Pretoria Cessation of Hostility Agreement (COHA).