The TPLF has denied claims of secret talks with Eritrea, labeling them false and part of a conspiracy against the Pretoria Agreement. In response to allegations of military contacts, the party affirmed its commitment to peace and urged serious consideration of the agreement. Internal divisions within TPLF and fears of external manipulation from Eritrea contribute to uncertainties regarding the peace process in the region.
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has dismissed allegations regarding covert communications with the Eritrean government, labeling these claims as entirely false and without evidence. In a statement from February 26, the party criticized media outlets like Africa Intelligence and Oromia Media Network, asserting that unnamed Ethiopian officials were promoting misinformation aimed at undermining the Pretoria Agreement.
According to TPLF, these allegations stem from a so-called “national betrayal group” and are part of a broader conspiracy against the peace process. This response follows a report by Africa Intelligence, which noted increasing interactions between the Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) and Eritrean military officers, suggesting informal meetings had occurred along the border and culminated in a confidential meeting in Asmara with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki.
The report raised alarms among Western embassies that are carefully observing the situation, given the potential for renewed conflicts. Conversely, TPLF asserted that its forces are committed to fully implementing the Pretoria Agreement, contending that they have faced various injustices while maintaining a commitment to peace despite ongoing conspiratorial challenges.
TPLF affirmed its dedication to peace and stability, stating, “Our principled stance on peace will not change in any form,” and calling for all stakeholders to treat the Pretoria Agreement as essential for resolving regional and national issues. Recent internal divisions within TPLF have also stirred concerns, particularly as factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Interim Administration President Getachew Reda align differently.
Concerns have also been raised by former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome, who warned that Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki might exploit these divisions to destabilize the region. In an opinion piece, he suggested that Isaias is collaborating with discontented elements within TPLF, potentially jeopardizing the peace agreement and reigniting conflict in northern Ethiopia.
The TPLF has firmly rejected accusations of secret communications with Eritrea as baseless, asserting its commitment to peace and the Pretoria Agreement. While the situation remains sensitive due to internal divisions within TPLF and external pressures, the party continues to advocate for regional stability and adherence to the terms of the peace deal. Concerns linger over Eritrea’s potential role in exacerbating TPLF’s internal conflicts, warning of possible repercussions for the peace process.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
