Mulatu Teshome Wirtu, former Ethiopian President, has accused Isaias Afwerki of exploiting TPLF divisions to undermine the Pretoria Peace Agreement, warning of potential conflict resurgence in Northern Ethiopia. He claims Isaias’s actions threaten the peace deal and could dismantle current administrations, stressing the critical importance of Ethiopia’s stability amid regional crises and calling for international diplomatic efforts to counter instability.
Mulatu Teshome Wirtu, the former President of Ethiopia, has condemned Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki for exploiting divisions within the TPLF to undermine the Pretoria Peace Agreement. He has issued a warning that such maneuvers could reignite conflict in Northern Ethiopia. In an opinion piece published on February 17 by Al Jazeera, Mulatu criticized Isaias for engaging in destructive actions that threaten regional stability.
In his assertions, Mulatu accused Isaias of collaborating with factions within the TPLF who oppose the peace agreement, which could jeopardize the entire deal. He pointed to the potential consequences of these actions, suggesting that they might dismantle the interim administration established under the peace terms, leading to catastrophic outcomes for Ethiopia and the wider region.
Having served as president from October 2013 until October 2018, Mulatu has held various diplomatic roles, including Ethiopia’s ambassador to multiple countries and Minister of Agriculture. He connects Isaias’s actions to Eritrea’s historical involvement in conflicts across the Horn of Africa, claiming that Isaias consistently fuels instability.
Mulatu noted that Isaias intervened when the TPLF attempted to regain power in 2020, perceiving an opportunity amidst the chaos. He described the 2022 Pretoria Agreement as a significant setback for Isaias, suggesting that the Eritrean president views peace as an obstacle to expanding his influence in the region.
Highlighting the importance of Ethiopia’s stability amidst crises in Sudan, Somalia, and the Sahel, Mulatu warned that escalating chaos could empower extremist groups and disrupt global trade. He called for concerted diplomatic efforts from global and regional actors to counter those who threaten peace, like Isaias, emphasizing that this is a global challenge, not merely an African issue.
In summary, Mulatu Teshome’s remarks underscore the potential threats posed by Isaias Afwerki’s actions on the stability of Ethiopia and the broader Horn of Africa. By exploiting internal divisions within the TPLF, Isaias risks dismantling the peace agreed upon in Pretoria, which could have dire consequences for the region and international security. Diplomatic intervention is essential to maintain peace and stability in this volatile area.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
