The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has expressed readiness to work alongside the region’s newly appointed Interim Administration while emphasizing its continued institutional independence.
TPLF Chairperson Debretsion Gebremichael (PhD) made the remarks during a gathering on Thursday following the appointment of Lt. Gen. Tadesse Worede as the new President of the Interim Administration. He succeeds Getachew Reda, whose departure comes after months of internal friction between the interim government and the TPLF.
In an apparent effort to ease political tensions, Debretsion called for cooperation and unity in addressing Tigray’s urgent priorities. “We are prepared to work in a coordinated manner with the Interim Administration and support its objectives to ensure swift delivery of services and peace in the region,” he said.
Debretsion also criticized the previous interim leadership, stating it had failed to meet expectations and, at times, harmed public trust. He said the current changes present an opportunity to rebuild and reorganize governance in Tigray based on public interest and renewed political consensus.
The TPLF leader outlined several priority areas including securing occupied territories, assisting displaced communities, restoring peace and stability, and expediting reconstruction efforts. He stressed that while the party will engage with the Interim Administration, it will continue to operate independently as a political institution.
Lt. Gen. Tadesse, who held his first cabinet session earlier in the day, echoed the need for collaboration and pledged to address the region’s pressing challenges through a phased action plan. He called for a more inclusive political approach and announced plans to convene a public forum aimed at crafting immediate and practical solutions.
Tadesse’s appointment marks a significant leadership shift following reported divisions within the TPLF that intensified after its 14th party congress in August 2024. The internal split is said to have contributed to Getachew Reda’s exit, who has since been named an advisor to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on East African Affairs.
Both the new administration and the TPLF have signaled a desire to move forward with mutual understanding to meet the aspirations of Tigray’s population.