Residents of Mekelle, Ethiopia, fear a resurgence of conflict following rising tensions that threaten a fragile peace agreement established after a devastating civil war. Concerns grow over internal power struggles within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front, alongside deteriorating relations with Eritrea. The community grapples with lasting trauma from the past war while attempting to maintain a semblance of normalcy amidst anxiety about potential conflict.
Residents of Mekelle, the principal city in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, express profound concerns about the potential resurgence of conflict. Following a fragile peace agreement in late 2022, which ended a devastating civil war resulting in approximately half a million fatalities, tensions have escalated. Many locals are either fleeing to Addis Ababa on sold-out flights or stockpiling emergency supplies as anxiety mounts about another violent escalation.
Tseganesh Kassa, an ex-combatant who bears the physical scars of the war, recounts her harrowing experience, stating, “I am now a disabled person and my family has been [ruined] economically. I don’t want to see that again.” The fears are exacerbated by the plight of displaced individuals who have yet to return to their homes, underscoring the lasting damage of the previous conflict.
The peace signed between Ethiopia’s federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has faltered amid internal strife. Allegations of power grabs by some TPLF politicians resonate with accusations from those within the interim administration regarding a lack of support for former combatants and displaced residents. Disputes over territorial control further inflame tensions between the factions.
Amidst these struggles for power, there is fear regarding the prospect of renewed conflict, not only within Tigray but potentially involving Eritrea, which previously supported the Ethiopian government. Deteriorating relations post-peace agreement have led Eritrean officials to refute claims of alleged human rights abuses, asserting that the regions in question are “Eritrean sovereign territories.”
Local sentiment reveals the toll of past violence; community members in Mekelle resonate with fatigue regarding warfare. Tesfay Gebreabgzi, a shoe-shiner, reflects, “The youths are tired of violence.” Similarly, Haimanot Gebremariam, a mother whose children were involved in the previous conflict, expresses deep concern over a possible return to instability, emphasizing the trauma still felt from the last war.
Despite the palpable anxiety, life in Mekelle continues, with shops and businesses operating, indicating a fragile semblance of normality. However, the region remains on high alert as citizens closely monitor developments from leaders and government officials, waiting with trepidation for forthcoming announcements that could determine the direction of peace or conflict in Tigray.
In summary, the residents of Tigray’s Mekelle are anxiously anticipating the implications of rising tensions that threaten the recently established peace. The psychological scars from the previous civil war remain fresh, with many voicing their refusal to endure further violence. As internal power struggles persist and relationships with Eritrea deteriorate, the impact could be significant, not only for Tigray but for the entire region’s stability. Thus, the populace remains vigilant as they await crucial developments that may influence their future.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
