Mekelle, January 5, 2025 – The Regional Government of Tigray has issued a statement highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the people of Tigray, including the humanitarian crisis, displacement, and lack of progress in implementing the Pretoria Agreement. The statement calls on both domestic and international stakeholders to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of the Tigrayan people and restore the region’s constitutional governance.
The Tigray Regional Government described the genocide against its people as a “tragic and unimaginable cruelty,” which has resulted in the deaths of countless civilians, the displacement of millions, and the destruction of vital infrastructure and resources. Despite the signing of the Pretoria Agreement, which aimed to address these challenges, the government expressed concern over the lack of tangible progress in meeting its key provisions.
Key Concerns Raised
The statement outlined the following unresolved issues:
- Displacement: Millions of displaced individuals remain unable to return to their homes.
- Military Withdrawal:Non Ethiopian National Defense Forces and other foreign military actors have yet to fully withdraw from Tigrayan territory.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Food shortages, lack of medical care, and insecurity continue to impact the region’s most vulnerable populations.
- Constitutional Autonomy: The constitutional governance and territorial integrity of Tigray remain in jeopardy, with political challenges threatening the region’s autonomy.
The statement noted that the lack of progress on these issues has left the people of Tigray in worsening conditions, with ongoing suffering and a deep sense of injustice.
Call to Action
The regional government has urged the federal government of Ethiopia to fulfill its commitments under the Pretoria Agreement, emphasizing that its implementation is both a legal and moral obligation. The statement also called on the international community, including the African Union, the United States, the European Union, and global humanitarian organizations, to exert pressure on all parties to ensure that the agreement’s provisions are fully executed.
In response to the delayed progress, peaceful demonstrations have taken place across the region. Protesters, carrying the slogan “Enough is Enough! Return Us to Our Homes,” have called for the immediate restoration of their rights and access to their homes and resources.
The Way Forward
The Tigray Regional Government reiterated its commitment to addressing the challenges faced by its people and achieving a sustainable solution. It emphasized the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders, including regional, national, and international actors, to ensure peace, justice, and stability for Tigray.
The government concluded its statement with a strong appeal to the international community to provide humanitarian assistance, facilitate the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement, and support the restoration of constitutional governance in Tigray.
