Tigray administration warns TPLF factions over actions fueling regional chaos, disunity

Lieutenant General Tadesse Werede, Deputy President of Tigray's interim administration and head of the cabinet secretariat for peace and security, has issued a stern warning to factions within the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), calling for an end to actions that are exacerbating political chaos and public disunity in the region.

International observers are closely monitoring this move amid rising tensions within the TPLF ranks due to its potential implications for stability in the Horn of Africa, as reported by the Addis Standard on Tuesday.

Lieutenant General Tadesse has also prohibited the interim administration of Tigray from making changes to local administrative appointments and reinforced previous restrictions on public rallies and demonstrations.

During a press briefing on September 9, 2024, he expressed concerns about potential violence and societal disruption, warning that such unrest could invite external interference in Tigray, a region still reeling from the aftermath of a brutal civil conflict.

While the ban on public rallies and demonstrations remains in place, politicians and government officials are still permitted to engage with communities in both urban and rural areas.

These measures highlight the delicate balance being navigated by Tigray's interim authorities as they attempt to stabilise a region marked by deep political fissures and external scrutiny.

He highlighted the impact of internal divisions within the TPLF on the broader political landscape in Tigray.

"Both factions must cease their current divisive activities and seek a political resolution to the conflict," he emphasised, voicing his concerns over the deepening political rifts within the TPLF that have further destabilised the region.

"The current political issues must be resolved through dialogue and negotiation," he stated, adding, "Individuals engaging in clandestine activities should refrain from such practices."

The general also addressed recent changes in leadership within the interim administration, including controversial demotions and promotions.

He warned that these actions are exacerbating the political crisis and should be halted immediately.

Children are pictured at the Abi Adi camp for Internally Displaced Persons in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region. (Photo: Tiksa Negeri/Reuters)

"The ongoing instability could potentially spiral out of control if not addressed promptly," he urged, calling on all parties to collaborate in finding a resolution to the crisis.

Efforts to mediate these tensions have involved direct talks with President Getachew and the Politburo of the TPLF, with Lieutenant General Tadesse stressing the need for all activities to stop in favour of a political solution.

"We have discussed with President Getachew and the Politburo of the TPLF to cease all current activities and resolve the issue politically," he emphasised.

"If they cannot reach a consensus, there should be a legally acceptable system that they must respect."

In a message directed to both domestic and international audiences, Lieutenant General Tadesse assured that the regional security forces would remain neutral, dedicated solely to the interests of the Tigrayan people.

"Supporting one group and opposing the other will not lead to a solution," he stated, urging all stakeholders to avoid interference and prioritise regional security.

"Anything that could lead to public danger and disharmony must be halted immediately," he said.

Lieutenant General Tadesse also reiterated that the primary role of the security forces is to maintain peace and stability in Tigray.

He further warned that any actions undermining this objective would be counterproductive.

"We are not issuing directives or demands but are actively working to persuade both parties to resolve their differences peacefully," he clarified.

In August 2024, Lieutenant General Tadesse reassured the public and international community that efforts were underway to prevent political disagreements from escalating into broader security threats.

He also reaffirmed the region's stance on preventing external interference in Tigray's local political affairs, maintaining that only indigenous Tigrayans should participate in such matters.

The situation in Tigray, shaped by both internal dynamics and external pressures, remains a focal point for regional stability in the Horn of Africa.

The unfolding events in Tigray, marked by internal divisions and external interest, are likely to continue drawing significant attention from both regional neighbours and the international community, given the broader implications for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.