The Ethiopian government distanced itself from former President Mulatu Teshome’s criticisms of Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, stating that his views were personal. Teshome’s article in Al Jazeera condemned Eritrea for inciting conflict. Eritrea’s government rebutted the claims as provocations by a former leader. Amid tensions, Eritrea considers closing its embassy in Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian government has publicly distanced itself from an opinion article written by former President Mulatu Teshome, which sparked a critical reply from Eritrea. Foreign Affairs spokesperson Nebiat Getachew clarified that Teshome’s views were solely his own, shaped by his experiences, rather than representing the government’s stance.
In his article for Al Jazeera on February 17, Teshome, who served as president from 2013 to 2018 and is an ally of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, accused Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki of inciting conflict in northern Ethiopia. He called for international pressure on Eritrea to avert potential violence, likening Isaias’s behavior to that of a pyromaniac, who thrives on conflict.
Teshome stated, “It seems Isaias is not just drawn to conflict but he seeks it out and thrives on it, like a pyromaniac who can’t resist setting fires.” He emphasized that the Eritrean state’s main agenda appears to revolve around conflict, supporting insurgents and destabilizing the region. He concluded that global actions must be taken against those undermining peace.
In response, Eritrean Information Minister Yemane Gebre Meskel dismissed Teshome’s claims as mere warmongering. He described Teshome as a “former figurehead president,” suggesting that his remarks stemmed from ill will and aimed at provoking tensions between the two nations.
Although the Ethiopian government maintained silence regarding Teshome’s comments initially, the recent briefing clarified that these opinions did not reflect its official position. Amid rising tensions, reports indicate that Eritrea is contemplating closing its embassy in Addis Ababa and urging military veterans to participate in training initiatives.
The Ethiopian government has sought to clarify its position amidst heightened tensions with Eritrea, particularly following critical remarks from former President Mulatu Teshome. While Teshome accused Eritrea’s leadership of fostering conflict, the current government distanced itself from these views. Eritrea, responding to these allegations, has labeled Teshome’s comments as provocations, which adds to the ongoing rivalry between the two nations. The situation calls for careful international observation and intervention to maintain regional stability.
Original Source: www.ethiopiaobserver.com
