The TPLF has denied allegations of secret contacts with Eritrea, labeling them as falsehoods aimed at undermining the Pretoria Agreement. The party insists on its commitment to peace despite internal divisions and warns against external manipulation that could provoke renewed conflict.
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has categorically denied allegations of secret communications with the Eritrean government, deeming the claims “completely untrue” and unsupported by evidence. The party’s statement, issued on February 26, criticized media outlets, like Africa Intelligence and Oromia Media Network, and unnamed officials for disseminating what they termed “fabricated falsehoods” aimed to disrupt the ongoing peace process stemming from the Pretoria Agreement.
According to the disputed report by Africa Intelligence, there have been increasing interactions between senior members of the Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) and Eritrean military officers, including informal border meetings that culminated in a private meeting in Asmara. During this meeting, Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki allegedly offered assurances of protection should conflicts arise with Ethiopia. Concerns over renewed violence have been growing among Western diplomatic missions monitoring the situation.
TPLF reiterated its commitment to the full implementation of the Pretoria Agreement, stating that it and its military forces have no ulterior motives beyond peace. The party accused unseen elements of spreading misleading information to confuse both the public and the international community. They emphasized their ongoing commitment to peace despite facing numerous challenges and conspiracies.
Amply highlighting the injustices faced since the Pretoria Agreement was signed, TPLF asserted its resolve to sustain its principled stance in pursuit of peace with neighboring states. The party called upon all actors to respect the agreement, which they believe is critical in addressing regional and national issues.
Amidst internal divisions within TPLF, notably between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Getachew Reda, concerns about instability have heightened. Mulatu Teshome, a former Ethiopian president, warned that Isaias Afwerki is trying to exploit these divisions to weaken the peace agreement, potentially rekindling conflict in northern Ethiopia. He indicated that such maneuvers threaten the peace deal and the region’s stability.
The TPLF has refuted claims of secret talks with Eritrea, labeling them as unfounded accusations intended to disrupt the Pretoria Agreement. They assert their dedication to peace and urge all parties to respect the agreement, amidst internal divisions posing risks to stability. Former Ethiopian leaders also warn against Eritrea’s tactics that could jeopardize peace efforts in the region.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
