Mekelle፡ 11 August 2024 (Tigray Herald)
Tigray President Declares “Tigray’s Territorial Integrity” a Red Line
In a extensive interview on Monday, Tigray IRA President Getachew Reda underscored the necessity of fully implementing the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement, stressing collaboration between the federal government and key negotiating parties.
In an interview with Reyot Media President Getachew also outlined several non-negotiable “red lines” that he would not concede to, regardless of pressure from the federal government or other bodies, including his party.
“I will never accept the handover of Tigray’s territorial integrity under any circumstances. This is a red line,” Getachew stated emphatically. “Besides, I cannot accept a referendum while there is an unelected government in place. Any adjustments that would lead to further conflict or battles outside the objectives set by the Tigray administration are also unacceptable.”
Tigray IRA President further highlighted that the interim administration’s primary goal is to uphold and strengthen the Pretoria Agreement until an elected government is established, following the restoration of Tigray’s constitutionally defined territories.
“Above all, the objective is to deepen the relative peace achieved through the Pretoria Agreement and allow the people’s elected government to make decisions once Tigray’s guaranteed territories are restored. Until a popularly elected government is in place, fulfilling the interim administration’s objectives remains a final red line.”
Meanwhile, U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Ambassador Mike Hammer, arrived in Ethiopia to review the ongoing implementation of the Pretoria peace agreement. A delegation from Tigray, led by Interim President Getachew Reda, is expected to arrive in Addis Ababa on Wednesday.
Last week, the U.S. State Department reaffirmed its continued support for both the Ethiopian government and the Tigray Interim Administration in their efforts to achieve lasting peace.
