The TPLF denies allegations of secret dealings with Eritrea, calling them unfounded and conspiratorial. They assert commitment to the Pretoria Agreement and urge unity among stakeholders. Internal divisions within the TPLF and the behavior of Eritrean leadership raise concerns about the stability of the peace process and regional security.
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has refuted allegations claiming that the party and the Tigray military have engaged in covert communications with the Eritrean government, labeling such assertions as entirely false and devoid of evidence. In a statement dated February 26, the party accused various media outlets and unnamed Ethiopian officials of disseminating misleading information that aims to undermine the Pretoria Agreement.
The TPLF denounced the allegations as the work of a “national betrayal group” involved in a “hidden conspiracy” intended to derail the peace process. This statement follows a recent report from Africa Intelligence suggesting increased interactions between senior Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) members and Eritrean officers, including a purported confidential meeting in Asmara at the end of January.
Despite the claims, TPLF expressed that neither it nor the people of Tigray harbors ulterior motives aside from implementing the Pretoria Agreement fully. The party asserted its commitment to peace while condemning the spread of fabricated allegations, calling for unity in focusing on the agreement’s execution.
The TPLF also emphasized its dedication to peace, asserting that its position would remain steadfast and that they will continue their efforts toward peaceful ties with neighboring states. They urged all stakeholders to treat the Pretoria Agreement with seriousness, citing it as essential for addressing both regional and national issues.
Amidst these tensions, divisions within the TPLF have emerged between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Interim Administration President Getachew Reda. Former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome warned that Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki appears to be exploiting these rifts, potentially destabilizing the Pretoria Agreement and reigniting conflict in northern Ethiopia.
In a piece published by Al Jazeera, Teshome noted that Isaias’s tactics could ruin the peace deal and cause regional instability, as he has allied with disgruntled elements within the TPLF unhappy with the agreement.
In summary, the TPLF has categorically rejected accusations of clandestine talks with Eritrea, framing them as unfounded and part of a conspiracy against the peace process. The organization stresses its commitment to the Pretoria Agreement and urges stakeholders to regard it seriously to promote stability. Additionally, ongoing internal divisions within TPLF and external influences pose challenges to maintaining peace in the region.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
