Residents in Mekelle, Ethiopia’s Tigray region, fear renewed conflict due to escalating tensions threatening a fragile peace agreement. Many are preparing to flee or stock up on essentials. The region, impacted by the civil war, faces unresolved political struggles and border disputes with Eritrea, leaving the community weary and anxious for a peaceful resolution.
Residents in Mekelle, Ethiopia’s Tigray region, are expressing deep concerns about the potential resurgence of conflict following a precarious peace agreement reached in late 2022. This peace deal ended a devastating civil war that resulted in an estimated loss of half a million lives. Many locals are either preparing to leave for Addis Ababa or stockpiling emergency supplies, indicating a widespread anxiety about the future.
Tseganesh Kassa, an ex-combatant from Shire, has been left disabled due to injuries sustained in the conflict, underscoring the personal toll of war. “I do not want to see that again,” she stated, illustrating the fears many share about a return to violence. Moreover, numerous displaced individuals remain in makeshift camps, unable to return to their homes.
The peace agreement, established between the Ethiopian federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), has been compromised by internal power struggles and accusations of treason. The interim administration of Tigray has raised alarms that certain TPLF factions are attempting to forcibly reclaim power, while some TPLF members assert that the interim leadership has neglected its responsibilities towards ex-fighters and the displaced.
Additionally, tensions with Eritrea contribute to the instability, as historic grievances and border disputes persist. Reports indicate that Eritrean troops remain in parts of Tigray, but Eritrean officials deny these accusations, labeling them as unfounded. The fallout from the past civil war continues to haunt the region, with allegations of widespread abuses clouding the legacy of the conflict.
The atmosphere in Mekelle is one of fatigue and apprehension. Local youths, once eager to fight, are now disillusioned and fearful of renewed violence. “The youths are tired of violence,” remarked Tesfay Gebreabgzi, indicating a widespread desire for peace despite the ongoing tensions and trauma from the previous conflict.
While much of Mekelle displays a façade of normalcy, with businesses operating and a lack of heavy security presence, the specter of conflict looms large. Citizens vigilantly monitor developments, anxious to hear news from Tigray’s interim administration and local leadership about efforts to stabilize the situation. The community’s future hangs in a delicate balance as they await clarity on the evolving political landscape.
In summary, the residents of Ethiopia’s Tigray region are increasingly apprehensive about the possibility of renewed conflict. Despite the nominal peace established in 2022, internal power struggles and unresolved issues with Eritrea exacerbate tensions. The pervasive trauma from the civil war still lingers, leaving many weary of the prospect of further violence. The population continues to seek stability while navigating an uncertain future.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
