The TPLF has rejected claims of secret talks with Eritrea, branding them as unfounded. The party accused several media outlets of spreading misinformation meant to undermine the Pretoria Agreement while emphasizing their commitment to peace. Internal divisions within TPLF and external influences have raised concerns about potential instability in the region.
The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) firmly dismissed claims of clandestine meetings with the Eritrean government, describing these accusations as “completely untrue” and lacking evidence. In a statement from February 26, TPLF pointed to various media sources, including Africa Intelligence and Oromia Media Network, as propagating these so-called “fabricated falsehoods” designed to undermine the Pretoria Agreement. The party accused certain unnamed actors of committing a “national betrayal” and conspiring against the ongoing peace process.
The controversy follows a report indicating that Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) members have increased interactions with Eritrean military officials, reportedly starting with informal meetings near the border. Allegations suggest a confidential meeting in Asmara in late January, wherein Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki supposedly assured TDF personnel of protection against potential conflict with Ethiopia. This has caused concern amongst Western embassies vigilant of escalating tensions in the region.
In response, TPLF reiterated its commitment, asserting that its leadership and military forces aim only to implement the Pretoria Agreement. The party denounced the spread of misinformation, stressing the focus should be on peace rather than disinformation efforts that confuse both the public and the international community. TPLF claimed to have shown resilience amidst numerous injustices while dedicated to achieving peace.
TPLF emphasized that its perspective on peace remains unwavering, highlighting its intention to foster relations with neighboring countries. The ongoing internal divisions within TPLF, characterized by rivalry between factions led by Debretsion Gebremichael and Getachew Reda, have raised concerns about potential instability. Make contact with elements within the Tigray military may further complicate the situation, as former Ethiopian President Mulatu Teshome indicated.
Teshome accused Isaias Afwerki of furthering factional divisions within TPLF to destabilize the Pretoria Agreement. He warned these actions could provoke renewed hostilities in northern Ethiopia, cautioning that Isaias’ destructive maneuvers could jeopardize the fragile peace framework. TPLF’s challenges not only come from external actors but also internal strife, complicating the peace efforts.
The TPLF has refuted rumors of secret dealings with Eritrea, affirming its commitment to the Pretoria Agreement while accusing external and internal forces of attempting to destabilize the peace process. Internal divisions within TPLF and claims from former leaders underscore the fragile situation in the region. Maintaining focus on peace appears critical as tensions simmer and misinformation persists.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
