Residents of Tigray are increasingly anxious about the ongoing power struggle between two factions of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). In response to the uncertainty, many citizens rushed to banks today to withdraw their money, fearing that the situation could deteriorate further.
The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel advisory, warning its citizens against traveling to the region, particularly to Mekelle and Adigrat. It also urged those already in the area to leave immediately.
Reports indicate that TPLF forces have taken control of an FM radio station and the local government office in Mekelle. Military movements have been observed in Mekelle, Adigrat, and Adigudom, further escalating tensions.
In response to the unfolding crisis, 24 embassies based in Addis Ababa have released a joint statement calling on all parties to uphold the Pretoria peace agreement and work towards de-escalation. Diplomats have expressed concerns over the deteriorating situation and confirmed that they are closely monitoring developments in the region.
There is growing fear that the tensions in Tigray could lead to a larger conflict involving Ethiopia and Eritrea. Asmara has reportedly placed its military on high alert, while Western diplomats claim that Ethiopia deployed troops to the border last month.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is reportedly holding consultations in Addis Ababa with both factions involved in the TPLF dispute. Getachew Reda, currently in the capital, has called on the federal government to intervene, accusing the rival faction of deliberately destabilizing the region to avoid accountability for past actions. He further alleged that this group has links to foreign actors.
On the other hand, Debretsion Gebremichael has rejected any external intervention, stating that such moves would violate the Pretoria peace deal. He defended TPLF forces, calling them the true protectors of Tigray.
The people of Tigray, still recovering from the devastation of previous conflicts, remain on edge as the region faces the risk of internal strife that could potentially draw in both the Ethiopian federal government and Eritrea.