Tigray Herald፡October 23,2024 (Mekele)
Standing Up for Tigray: The Need for Courage in the Face of Injustice
Introduction
In times of great oppression, silence is not an option. Today, Tigray faces a political and humanitarian crisis that demands action and unwavering courage. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people.” Silence, in the face of injustice, becomes complicity. Now more than ever, we must break our silence and prioritize Tigray’s national interest above all else—above party politics, personal agendas, and past loyalties.
Tigray Over TPLF: Putting National Interest First
At this critical juncture, Tigray’s survival and future must take precedence over any political group, including the TPLF. The splinter group led by Debretsion Gebremichael has consistently placed narrow, self-serving interests above the well-being of the Tigrayan people. This betrayal is an affront to Tigray’s sovereignty, security, and future. As leaders and citizens, we must not allow personal or party loyalties to blind us to this reality. Tigray’s national interest must come first. The future of our people, our land, and our heritage depends on our collective commitment to this principle.
The Power of Speaking Out
As Alice Walker once said, “The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” Silence is never neutral—it is a choice that empowers the oppressor. Archbishop Desmond Tutu wisely observed, “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” Tigray cannot afford neutrality or indifference. Silence allows injustice to thrive.
Today, Tigray faces genocide, mass displacement, and failed political leadership. To remain silent in such circumstances is to abandon our moral and political responsibility. Now is the time to raise our voices and demand that Tigray’s interests take precedence over narrow party objectives.
The 21st Century’s Betrayal: The Failures of TPLF Leadership
The actions of Debretsion Gebremichael and his faction represent one of the most significant betrayals of the 21st century. By putting their political survival above the welfare of the people, they have disregarded the sacrifices of countless Tigrayans during the genocidal war. Political maneuvering and personal ambitions should never have been placed ahead of Tigray’s survival.
This betrayal is intolerable. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Silence becomes cowardice when occasion demands speaking out the whole truth and acting accordingly.” We cannot afford to ignore the destructive path this leadership has taken. The future of Tigray depends on prioritizing its recovery and long-term security over the selfish interests of any political faction.
Injustice in Tigray is a Threat to Justice Everywhere
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us that “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” The injustices in Tigray today will have lasting consequences if we do not act. By standing up for Tigray now, we not only safeguard our own future but also contribute to the broader cause of justice and human dignity.
We, as citizens and leaders, have a moral obligation to reject the failed leadership of Debretsion Gebremichael and his group. We must stand united in our commitment to Tigray, ensuring that the interests of the people come before any political faction or self-serving agenda.
Conclusion
In the face of atrocity and betrayal, silence is not an option. As Robert F. Kennedy said, “Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.” Let us be that ripple of hope for Tigray. Let us stand together, speak out, and act to protect the national interest of our people above all else.
Tigray’s future depends on our courage to break the silence and demand justice. We must be the generation that puts Tigray first, above any political party or faction, securing a future of peace, dignity, and prosperity for our people.
We cannot afford silence in a post-genocide Tigray, devastated by betrayal and injustice. Let us stand together, rejecting failed leadership, and ensure that Tigray’s future is one of resilience and recovery.
