As tensions rise in Tigray, Ethiopia, residents are fleeing due to a power struggle between factions in Mekele, recalling the horrors of the previous war from 2020-2022. Key administrative buildings have changed control, and fears of renewed conflict with Eritrea further exacerbate the situation. Economically strained, locals are withdrawing funds and stockpiling food in fear of impending instability.
Political unrest in Tigray, Ethiopia, has prompted residents to seek refuge as rival factions vie for control of the city of Mekele. The administrator of Tigray has called upon the federal government for assistance as clashes ensue between factions led by Getachew Reda and Debretsion Gebremichael of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). The situation is reminiscent of the deadly conflict from 2020-2022, which estimated the loss of 600,000 lives.
Individuals are fleeing the escalating tensions; a university lecturer in Mekele noted, “People are in terror that if armed conflict breaks out it will be worse than the war they endured.” Another resident, Mihret, expressed fears reminiscent of past conflicts, stating, “We were trapped in Mekele during the previous war, we do not want that to happen again.” Many have attempted to leave, with flights from the airport currently overbooked.
Debretsion’s faction has recently taken control of key administrative buildings, including the town hall in Mekele, reinstating the former mayor. A spokesperson for Debretsion characterized the previous dismissal of the mayor as illegal. Heightened surveillance in nearby Adigrat has resulted in the ouster of the incumbent mayor, prompting further fears of civil conflict among citizens, as expressed by civil servant Mehari Gebremariam.
Concerns also loom over potential involvement from neighboring Eritrea, known for its contentious history with Ethiopia, particularly following the 1998-2000 conflict that claimed tens of thousands of lives. Relations, once improved, have become strained post-Tigray conflict, with Eritrea alleging an ongoing aggressive campaign from Ethiopia. A senior Tigray strategist warned that “a war between Ethiopia and Eritrea could break out at any moment.”
The prevailing climate of fear has led to significant economic concern, with residents rapidly withdrawing funds from banks and hoarding food supplies. Solomon Hagos emphasized the exhaustion of the local populace, stating, “Our economy is devastated” and underscoring the community’s reluctance to face another war.
The situation in Tigray is increasingly precarious, marked by internal power struggles and fears of renewed conflict. As rival factions clash for control in Mekele, civilians are compelled to flee amidst concerns of an impending humanitarian crisis. The involvement of Eritrea adds another layer of complexity to an already dire situation, stirring fears of escalation that could have catastrophic consequences for the region. Residents are taking necessary precautions, but the economy remains fragile, and the yearning for peace echoes throughout the beleaguered populace.
Original Source: www.citizen.co.za
