The Pretoria Agreement seeks to ensure lasting peace in Tigray between the FDRE and TPLF since November 2022, but recent developments challenge its permanence. Infighting among TPLF factions and disputes over territory raise concerns about adherence to the Agreement. Transitional Justice discussions further complicate the situation, highlighting the need for a focused approach to current challenges.
The Pretoria Peace Agreement, officially named the ‘Agreement for Lasting Peace through Permanent Cessation of Hostilities,’ represents a significant achievement for both the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This accord has brought hope, especially to the people of Tigray, offering a lifeline through the efforts of mediating parties. The primary goal since its implementation on November 3, 2022, has been cessation of hostilities, but how enduring will this peace be?
Recent developments, however, cast doubt on the permanence of this peace. The ensuing struggle for power in Tigray has become chaotic and undignified, reminiscent of a cartoon narrative, with officials’ self-interests overshadowing progress. Despite the Pretoria Agreement’s Article 10 (1) insisting on an inclusive Interim Administration prior to the next General Election, the political climate remains tumultuous. The Prime Minister’s recent comments reflect a hesitancy to get involved in the disputes within Tigray.
The situation can be likened to an episode from the cartoon “Tom and Jerry” titled ‘When the Truce Hurts,’ where attempts at peace are quickly undermined by distractions. In the story, a shared opportunity leads to conflict, symbolizing the ongoing struggles in Tigray amid the so-called ‘West Tigray Gold Rush.’ At the core, issues affecting lives and well-being take precedence; over a million lives have been lost, highlighting the tragic consequences of this prolonged strife.
The Pretoria Agreement assumed acceptance of federal authority within Tigray, an expectation that TPLF has struggled to comply with. Disputes continue over whether parties within TPLF are betraying their region by recognizing the FDRE’s role. However, the constitutional legitimacy of the FDRE’s presence in Tigray is established, and any Interim Administration must result from a political dialogue in good faith, with the idea of TPLF not solely dictating terms.
TPLF made a sound choice in designating Ato Getachew Reda to lead the negotiations, as his approach likely avoided escalating tensions. The Agreement carefully sidesteps contentious territorial integrity clauses that could set risky precedents and acknowledges existing constitutional domains regarding inter-regional disputes without overly complicating matters.
The challenge of establishing a Transitional Justice Policy remains a fundamental flaw in the Accord. The FDRE must confront the complexities of past injustices while ensuring the new policy does not regress to unresolved issues from decades ago. The expectations from international observers, particularly the American delegation, are significant; the policy should focus on current concerns rather than historical grievances, to maintain trust and efficacy among all parties involved.
The Pretoria Agreement seeks to establish a peace framework following a prolonged and devastating conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia. The agreement’s intention is to end hostilities between the FDRE and TPLF, two major political entities in Ethiopia. As the conflict has profound humanitarian implications, the intent of creating a lasting peace through political dialogue escalates its importance. However, recent power struggles and disputes over territory highlight the precariousness of this peace process.
The Pretoria Peace Agreement stands as a critical step toward ending hostilities in Tigray but faces numerous challenges that threaten its longevity. Infighting among TPLF factions and the external allure of resources complicate adherence to the agreement’s terms. The ongoing negotiations for Transitional Justice further necessitate a focused approach to contemporary issues rather than historical grievances. The future of peace in Tigray remains uncertain amid these dynamics.
Original Source: borkena.com
