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AU urges restraint amid rising tensions in Northern Ethiopia

Africa Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki. (Photo: AUC)

By Mwangi Maina | 26 Apr 2024

He noted the need for the commencement of political dialogue as the most viable means to address the issues in the contested areas, as outlined in the COHA.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, has expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between local communities in northern Ethiopia, particularly in disputed areas such as Raya Alamata, Zata, and Ofla.

He has called for an immediate halt to hostilities and emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety of civilians to prevent further displacement of the local population.

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"He appeals for the respect and full implementation of the Agreement for lasting peace through a permanent cessation of hostilities (COHA), signed between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) on November 2, in Pretoria, South Africa," read a statement issued by the AU Commission.

He noted the need for the commencement of political dialogue as the most viable means to address the issues in the contested areas, as outlined in the COHA.

The United Nations has reported a staggering increase in the number of internally displaced persons in Ethiopia's northern region, with over 50,000 people forced to flee their homes amid renewed conflict.

This figure has tripled from the initial estimate of 15,000 just days prior, highlighting the severity of the situation.

The escalation in displacement follows clashes that erupted last Saturday, prompting tens of thousands of residents to seek refuge in the nearby town of Kobo for safety.

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, vulnerable populations, particularly women and children, are in urgent need of comprehensive humanitarian assistance to survive amidst the crisis.

Despite efforts by the government and humanitarian partners to provide aid, including food and health services, resources are strained and struggling to keep up with the escalating needs of the affected population.

The conflict has intensified following a renewed military offensive by the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) after the signing of the Pretoria agreement aimed at ending a two-year war between the Federal government and the TPLF.

The TPLF has seized control of areas adjacent to Alamata, claiming them as part of Tigray based on constitutional grounds.