Tigray Herald፡November 4,2024 (Mekele)
Written By Yerga Yaecobe
Unity of Purpose: A Collective Conscience for Tigray’s Defense and Sovereignty”
Subtitle:
“Ensuring a Free, Independent, and Non-Politicized Tigray Defense Forces as a Pillar of
National Integrity”
I. Introduction: A Call for Unified Commitment to Tigray’s Future
In this momentous time of post-genocide recovery, every Tigrayan—regardless of their political
beliefs, personal affiliations, or background—must recognize the vital importance of standing
together for a single, unifying cause: the security, territorial integrity, and sovereignty of Tigray.
This unity must extend beyond personal interests and political divides, reflecting an unwavering
commitment to a collective purpose. It is crucial that the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF) embody
this unity, standing as an independent institution that defends Tigray’s national interests, free
from political manipulation or interference.
II. The Imperative of an Independent TDF: Guarding Tigray’s Sovereignty and Integrity
The TDF must remain an independent body, unswayed by any political party, including the
Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) or any other entities. Tigray’s security demands a
military institution that operates without bias, guided solely by the constitutional principles of the
Tigray Interim Government until a freely elected government is in place. This independence
ensures the TDF can maintain Tigray’s national interests and shield its people without
succumbing to factional pressures or corruption.
III. Accountability and Integrity: Removing Political Interference and Criminal Influence
To safeguard the trust and respect of all Tigrayans, the TDF must distance itself from individuals
and factions that have exploited or betrayed the region. The four individuals
identified—Debretsion Gebremichael, Getachew Assefa, Alem Gebrewahid, and Fetlework
Gebregziabher—represent failures in governance, integrity, and preparation. Their ties to past
failures, including corruption, nepotism, and lack of transparency, are fundamentally
incompatible with the values of a disciplined, impartial defense force. Their continued
involvement undermines the TDF’s credibility and weakens the unity that is essential for Tigray’s
strength.
Only by severing ties with such figures can the TDF secure its mission and serve as a force for
all Tigrayans, rather than a tool manipulated by a few for personal gain. The TDF must address
these corruption networks, neutralize criminal influences, and resist serving as a “political party
tool” to ensure that it represents the voice and interest of the entire Tigrayan population.
IV. A Unifying Principle: Listening to Every Tigrayan Voice and Prioritizing National Interests
Unity within the TDF reflects the will of the Tigrayan people. To ensure this unity, the TDF must
incorporate the perspectives and priorities of all Tigrayans, particularly the younger generation,
whose resilience and vision will guide Tigray’s future. By standing for justice, inclusivity, and
integrity, the TDF can reinforce Tigrayans’ collective purpose and cultivate loyalty across
generations. A national defense institution that respects and protects the political will of its people without seeking to influence or control it will build unbreakable trust, helping to cement
the TDF as a pillar of Tigrayan resilience and purpose.
V. The Cost of Political Entanglement: The Danger of a Compromised Defense
If the TDF becomes entangled in party politics or is influenced by the failed leadership of the
Debretsion Gebremichael faction, it risks being perceived as a factional entity rather than a
protector of all Tigrayans. The history of inadequate leadership, lack of military preparation,
intelligence failures, and the inability to foresee and prepare for the genocidal onslaught is a
stark reminder of what is at stake. The TDF must rise above these past failures by becoming a
force for unity, trusted by all Tigrayans, and protected from any political compromise that could
endanger its purpose.
VI. Ensuring the Unity of Purpose: Principles for a Non-Politicized TDF
Independent Chain of Command: The TDF leadership should be answerable only to the Tigray
Interim Government, with a transparent chain of command that respects constitutional
boundaries and prioritizes Tigray’s national security and sovereignty.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption and Exploitation: Criminal activities, including illegal mining, land
grabbing, exploitation of women, and kidnapping, must be eradicated with full commitment.
These acts not only violate human rights but also destabilize the unity of Tigray’s people.
Non-Interference Policy: The TDF must operate independently of all political parties, including
the TPLF, ensuring that its decisions and actions are never subject to partisan influence.
Merit-Based Leadership: TDF leadership roles should be filled based on integrity, competence,
and merit, without nepotism or favoritism, to cultivate a sense of trust and pride among the
Tigrayan people.
Respecting the People’s Will: The TDF must embody the aspirations of the Tigrayan people,
especially the younger generation who demand a future free from the failures and divisions of
the past. By aligning with the people’s will, the TDF can build lasting trust and loyalty.
VII. Conclusion: A Vision for a Strong, Unified Tigray Defense Force
For Tigray to survive and thrive, it is essential that the TDF remains a non-partisan, independent
institution committed to protecting Tigray’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its people.
Only then can the TDF fulfill its duty to Tigray, free from the corrupting influences of failed
leaders and partisan agendas. Let this be a pledge to every Tigrayan: The TDF is a defender of
your rights, your land, and your future—a future that belongs to all of Tigray, united in purpose
and resilient in spirit.
Powerful Slogans and Messages for the Document
“Defend Tigray with Integrity: A Military Above Politics, For All Tigrayans”
“United by Purpose, Strengthened by Independence: The TDF Stands for Every Tigrayan”
“A Shield for Sovereignty, A Protector of Peace: TDF as the Voice of Tigray’s Unity”
“Beyond Politics, Beyond Division: TDF as the Unyielding Defender of Tigray’s Future”
This document should be a declaration of the Tigrayan people’s commitment to a free, strong,
and principled defense force—one that stands solely to safeguard Tigray’s interests without bias
or influence. It is only by fostering this unity and ensuring TDF independence that the people of
Tigray can collectively rebuild, protect, and aspire toward a prosperous future.
