Tigray Interim Administration accuses TPLF of “coup” attempt
By Amina Wako |
The administration’s statement contends that Debretsion’s faction has transitioned from merely “obstructing government work” to engaging in outright “coup activities.”
The Tigray Interim Administration, led by Getachew Reda, has publicly accused the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), headed by Debretsion Gebremichael, of attempting an “official coup”.
On November 10, 2024, a formal statement announced this accusation, highlighting the escalating tensions within the TPLF and raising concerns about the stability of Tigray's regional governance.
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The administration’s statement contends that Debretsion’s faction has transitioned from merely “obstructing government work” to engaging in outright “coup activities.”
Specific developments cited include alleged actions in “Mekelle City, North Western, and Central Zones,” which the administration claims demonstrate deliberate efforts to seize control.
“Irresponsible actions are being deliberately carried out to make our people lose hope and become trapped in a continuous cycle,” the statement declared, pointing to what it described as an atmosphere of instability and manipulation.
Further, the administration accused Debretsion’s faction of orchestrating a campaign of “extensive deception” over the past two weeks, during which it allegedly “reached an understanding with Tigray military leaders” and has “taken control of the government structure from top to bottom.”
The internal dispute surfaced following the TPLF’s 14th Congress, where ideological and operational differences became apparent. This division resulted in Debretsion’s group removing Getachew and other officials from the administration, asserting that they “will no longer have the authority to lead, make decisions, or issue directives.”
In response, the interim administration warned it would take legal action against Debretsion's faction for actions it considered an attempt to destabilise the region.
“We will not stand by while certain groups sow chaos and anarchy in Tigray,” stated the administration.
Mediation efforts by religious leaders have thus far struggled to bridge the divide. On October 31, Tigray Orthodox Synods initiated a dialogue, urging both factions to resolve their issues “peacefully and in a civilized manner.”
The TPLF, while appreciative of the religious leaders’ advice, clarified on November 2 that the clergy’s role was to encourage peaceful dialogue, not to mediate. A TPLF statement expressed support for “resolving differences peacefully, legally, and systematically.”
Despite this, Getachew Reda’s administration emphasised that it remains open to negotiations but ruled out any talks on power sharing.
“It must be clear that the issue of power-sharing, regarding who should hold government power, is non-negotiable by any measure,” the statement asserted, marking a firm stance on the leadership of the regional government.
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