Residents of Mekelle, Tigray, fear renewed conflict as tensions rise following a fragile peace agreement. Ex-combatants and civilians express deep anxiety over the potential return of violence, stemming from ongoing power struggles, territorial disputes, and strained relations with Eritrea. Despite the semblance of normal life, the trauma from the past war is still evident among the population, fueling their desire for peace.
Residents in Mekelle, the main city of Ethiopia’s Tigray region, are expressing their fears of a resurgence of conflict following the fragile peace agreement established in late 2022 after a brutal civil war. The anxiety among the population has led many to seek refuge in Addis Ababa or prepare for emergencies by stocking supplies and withdrawing their savings from banks.
Ex-combatant Tseganesh Kassa, who suffered severe injuries during the previous conflict, lamented the ongoing strife, stating it has had devastating effects on her family. Many displaced individuals have not been able to return to their homes, leading to statements of despair, with Kassa declaring, “No-one can handle another war.”
The situation in Tigray remains precarious as a power struggle emerges between the interim administration and elements of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), leading to accusations of treason on both sides. Tensions are further compounded by disputes over territories and dissatisfaction regarding support for displaced citizens.
Concerns are also mounting over the relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which were strained after Eritrea did not sign the peace deal. Allegations of ongoing abuse by Eritrean troops in contested areas amplify fears of renewed hostilities. Tigrayan officials insist on regaining disputed areas currently held by forces from the Amhara region, with Ethiopia’s desire for direct access to the sea further complicating matters.
Residents of Mekelle are weary and traumatized by the prospect of further violence. Local sentiments reflect a desire to avoid a return to “the dark days” of conflict, with many still grappling with the lasting scars from the previous war. Though normalcy appears to be somewhat restored with operational businesses, the looming threat of new conflict has residents anxiously following developments, particularly those concerning Tigray’s interim administration and the newly appointed mayor.
The landscape in Tigray remains fragile as the region has yet to fully recover from the significant toll of the civil war, with millions still displaced and key infrastructure in disrepair. As the possibility of conflict looms, the resilience and hope of the Tigrayan people remain tested amidst pervasive uncertainty.
The residents of Tigray are deeply anxious about the potential resurgence of conflict following the fragile peace established in 2022. With ongoing power struggles, relations with Eritrea, and humanitarian crises, there exists a palpable atmosphere of fear and fatigue. The recollections of their devastating past create a strong desire within the local population to avoid a return to violence, illustrating the dire need for lasting peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
