In the aftermath of Ethiopia's prolonged conflict, opposition parties in Tigray face a daunting challenge. The Pretoria Agreement, signed two years ago, aimed to restore peace and address the region's turmoil. However, its implementation has been uneven, with key provisions on DDR, transitional justice, and IDP returns largely unfulfilled. This has led to renewed fears of a return to war, as local reports and analysts highlight new military mobilizations, drone strikes, and rising hostile rhetoric from military and political actors.
Alula Hailu, the chair of the Salsay Weyane Tigray (SaWeT) party, emphasizes the detrimental impact of these developments on the region's recovery efforts. He argues that both the federal government and the TPLF have failed to fulfill their obligations under the agreement, leading to a vulnerable peace settlement. Alula calls for accountability, suggesting that the federal government bears the primary responsibility for normalizing conditions, restoring services, and building trust in Tigray.
The party's concerns extend to cross-border interactions with Eritrea, which they view as unlawful and detrimental to the region's stability. They also express opposition to any unconstitutional relationships between the TPLF and the Eritrean government, emphasizing the need for transparency and public disclosure. The Tigray Peace Force (TPF) and its potential ties to the Simret Party further complicate the political landscape, prompting Alula to call for peaceful resolution and dialogue between all parties involved.
Despite the challenges, Alula's party remains committed to promoting peace and national unity. They advocate for a lasting settlement between the TPLF and other factions, urging all parties to refrain from conflict and engage in peaceful negotiations. The party's efforts include weekly press releases, media platforms for awareness-raising, and initiatives to bring stakeholders together for a national symposium, aiming to foster dialogue and address the complex issues facing Tigray.
