Mekelle፡ 10 August 2024 (Tigray Herald)
By Yerga Yaecobe
Embracing Peace and Unity: A New Path for Tigray.
The situation involving the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and its leadership, particularly Debretsion Gebremichael, has raised significant concerns within the Tigrayan community and beyond. The decision to re-register the TPLF as a new political party and the broader implications of the Pretoria Peace Agreement for Tigray are central to understanding the current political and legal landscape. Below is a detailed analysis of these issues.
1. The Betrayal of TPLF Leadership: Debretsion Gebremichael’s Actions
The actions of Debretsion Gebremichael, the TPLF chairman, have been viewed by many as a betrayal of the TPLF’s legacy and the sacrifices made by the people of Tigray. His decision to re-register the TPLF as a new political party has sparked outrage among Tigrayan central committee members, political cadres, and the broader population. This move is perceived as a unilateral action that disregards the collective interests of the TPLF and the people of Tigray.
A. The Nature of the Betrayal
Unilateral Decision-Making: Debretsion’s decision to re-register the TPLF without consulting his deputy chairman, the current Interim Regional Administration of Tigray, or the central committee members reflects a serious breach of trust and governance principles. This act undermines the democratic foundations of the party and suggests a prioritization of personal and narrow group interests over the collective good of the Tigrayan people.
Surrendering Party Assets: By surrendering the TPLF’s assets, including the Endowment Fund for the Rehabilitation of Tigrai (EFFORT), to the Ethiopian federal government, Debretsion has put the party’s financial stability and independence at risk. EFFORT, established in 1995 and legally registered in 1997, has been a crucial institution for the economic development of Tigray. Its endangerment through the re-registration process could have long-term negative consequences for the region.
Impact on the TPLF’s Legacy: The TPLF, a party with a 50-year history, played a central role in the political and social struggles of Tigray. The re-registration effectively erases this legacy, reducing the party to a mere three-day-old entity. This undermines the sacrifices made by countless Tigrayans over decades of struggle, particularly during the recent conflict.
B. Legal and Political Consequences
Impact on TPLF’s Legal Standing: The re-registration of the TPLF as a new political party could have serious legal implications. By relinquishing its assets and rebranding, the TPLF may lose its legal rights and claims over properties and resources accumulated over the years. This could weaken the party’s position in future political negotiations and reduce its ability to represent the interests of Tigray effectively.
Erosion of Internal Party Unity: Debretsion’s actions have created significant rifts within the TPLF. The unilateral nature of his decisions and the lack of consultation with key party members have led to internal divisions, weakening the party’s cohesion at a critical time. This internal strife could have long-term consequences for the TPLF’s ability to function as a unified political force.
2. Reinstating the TPLF to the Register: Importance and Consequences
The decision by the Ethiopian National Election Commission (ENEC) to reinstate the TPLF to the register as a new political party, rather than as the historical party it has been, is highly significant.
A. Importance of Reinstating the TPLF
Preservation of Political Legacy: Reinstating the TPLF as the same party rather than a new one would have preserved its historical and political legacy. The TPLF has been a dominant political force in Ethiopia and the broader Horn of Africa for decades. Its legacy is intertwined with the identity of the Tigrayan people, and maintaining its historical continuity would have been crucial in honoring this legacy.
Political Stability: Given the fragile peace and security situation in Tigray, maintaining the continuity of the TPLF could have contributed to political stability. A familiar and historically rooted party could provide a sense of continuity and reassurance to the Tigrayan people during a period of significant uncertainty.
B. Consequences of Registering as a New Party
Legal Consequences: By registering as a new party, the TPLF risks losing its legal claims over assets and properties accumulated over the past five decades. This includes not only financial resources but also symbolic assets that represent the party’s historical legacy. The potential loss of these assets could weaken the TPLF’s political and economic influence.
Political Legitimacy: The TPLF’s legitimacy is rooted in its history and the sacrifices made by its members and supporters over the years. Rebranding as a new party could undermine this legitimacy, leading to a loss of support among its traditional base. This could have significant implications for the party’s ability to mobilize support in future elections and political engagements.
3. The Pretoria Peace Agreement: Legal Implications for Tigray
The Pretoria Peace Agreement, which marked the end of the conflict between the Ethiopian federal government and Tigrayan forces, has significant legal implications for Tigray and the TPLF.
A. Legal Implications
Federal Control Over Tigray: The agreement effectively reasserted federal control over Tigray, limiting the region’s autonomy and self-governance. This has legal implications for the TPLF’s ability to operate independently and advocate for the interests of Tigrayans. The agreement also placed restrictions on the TPLF’s military and political activities, further diminishing its influence.
Accountability and Justice: The agreement included provisions for accountability and justice for crimes committed during the conflict. This could have legal repercussions for TPLF leaders, including Debretsion Gebremichael, who may face scrutiny for their roles in the conflict. The legal processes initiated under the agreement could further weaken the TPLF’s leadership and undermine its political standing.
B. Impact on Peace and Security
Fragile Peace: The peace established by the Pretoria Agreement remains fragile. The re-registration of the TPLF as a new party could exacerbate tensions in the region, particularly if it is perceived as a betrayal of Tigray’s interests. This could lead to renewed instability and conflict, undermining the gains made through the peace process.
Risk of Renewed Conflict: The internal divisions within the TPLF, combined with the legal and political challenges posed by the re-registration, could increase the risk of renewed conflict. If the TPLF is unable to maintain unity and effectively represent Tigrayan interests, it may lose its ability to manage tensions within the region, leading to a resurgence of violence.
4. Conclusion: The Way Forward for Tigray and the TPLF
The actions of Debretsion Gebremichael and the decision to re-register the TPLF as a new party have significant legal, political, and security implications for Tigray. The betrayal perceived by many Tigrayans is not just a matter of party politics; it touches on the very identity and future of the Tigrayan people.
To move forward, it is crucial for the TPLF to address the internal divisions and restore trust among its members and supporters. This may require Debretsion’s resignation and a re-evaluation of the party’s leadership and direction. Additionally, the legal and political consequences of the Pretoria Peace Agreement must be carefully managed to ensure that Tigray’s interests are protected in the long term.
Ultimately, the future of the TPLF and Tigray depends on the ability to navigate these challenges with wisdom, unity, and a commitment to the broader interests of the Tigrayan people.
