Tigray Herald፡November 30,2024 (Mekele)
Challenging Document Addressing the 60th TDF Military Division Spokesperson
Introduction
In light of the recent remarks made by the 60th TDF Military Division spokesperson during a media appearance on the Da’amat YouTube channel, several critical and deeply troubling issues require urgent clarification and accountability. The people of Tembien, particularly its youth, are subjected to escalating acts of terror, intimidation, imprisonment, and systemic abuses. These actions raise serious questions about the priorities and accountability of the military in a region already devastated by genocide, war, and displacement. Below is a list of expanded and detailed challenging questions to confront these issues, emphasizing the need for justice, transparency, and the protection of the people of Tigray.
Critical Questions on Governance, Accountability, and Military Ethics
On Military Priorities and Accountability
Does the 60th TDF Division prioritize terrorizing the people of Tembien over restoring and protecting Tigray’s territorial integrity?
If not, why are road blockades, sieges, and acts of terror occurring under your command, preventing district-to-district movement in Abergele and other areas?
Do you believe that terrorizing, killing, and oppressing your own people is a viable method to maintain power?
If yes, have you not learned from the failure and removal of the TPLF leadership from federal power due to similar tactics of oppression and misgovernance?
Are you acting as the protector of the TPLF’s political interests, or are you committed to safeguarding the rights and interests of the people of Tigray?
How do you reconcile the ongoing terror against Tembien’s youth with your stated mission to protect Tigray?
Does this align with the values and goals of the TDF?
On Political Influence and Corruption
Are you a political cadre serving the interests of a failed political ideology, or are you a military professional committed to impartiality and service to the people?
What is your response to allegations of illegal gold mining under the control of your division in Abergele, Adiet Zana, and other districts in Tembien?
Are you directly benefiting from these illegal mining activities?
What measures are in place to investigate and address sexual violence and harassment reportedly committed by your senior officers, including General Henesa Woldegiorgis?
How do you plan to restore the trust of Tigrayan women who have suffered such injustices?
On Leadership and Lessons from Failure
Have you reflected on the catastrophic failures of the TPLF, including its inability to protect Western Tigray (Wolqait), leading to immense suffering and territorial loss?
What lessons have you drawn from these failures to guide your current approach to governance and military leadership?
Instead of focusing on intimidating and terrorizing the youth of Tembien, why has the TDF under your command failed to prioritize restoring Western Tigray to Tigray’s territorial control?
Do you understand that unity cannot be achieved through slogans and force but requires inclusiveness, respect for individual rights, and tolerance of differing ideas and opinions?
How do you justify actions that undermine the foundational values of unity and democracy?
On Security and Allegations of Assassination Involvement
Your comments on the failed assassination attempt of Solomon Masho have raised more questions than answers.
How do you respond to accusations that your division may be complicit in this attack?
Do you not see how your distorted political partiality and divisive actions are destroying the peace and security of Tigray?
How can the people trust a leadership that prioritizes political gain over national stability?
Powerful Narrative to Expose the Distorted Statement
The statements made by the 60th TDF Military Division spokesperson during the Da’amat YouTube interview are emblematic of the unethical, unprofessional, and unaccountable attitudes that have plagued Tigray’s leadership during its most vulnerable period. This platform failed to critically challenge the spokesperson on critical issues, instead enabling the perpetuation of a narrative that betrays the trust and sacrifices of the Tigrayan people.
Tigray’s survival and recovery require leaders who champion inclusiveness, transparency, and the rule of law—not those who perpetuate oppression, corruption, and political favoritism. The systematic targeting of Tembien’s youth, the exploitation of resources through illegal gold mining, and the use of sexual violence as a weapon against women are not only crimes against individuals but betrayals of the entire Tigrayan nation.
We call for:
Immediate cessation of terror tactics in Tembien and other districts.
Transparent investigations into allegations of corruption, illegal mining, and sexual violence.
Accountability for those complicit in undermining the security and dignity of Tigray’s people.
A shift from divisive political ideologies to inclusive and visionary leadership committed to Tigray’s future.
Let it be known that the people of Tigray will no longer tolerate oppressive tactics, corruption, and distorted narratives. The failures of the past must not define the future. It is time for leaders to serve their people, not oppress them. #NoMoreTerrorInTembien.
