The Exclusion of TPLF from the Ethiopian Election Board is a Violation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
Written By Addis-Alem Belay (PhD)
The removal of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) from the Ethiopian Election Board is a clear violation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement signed between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF. This agreement brokered with the support of the United States and the African Union, was intended to end the devastating two-year conflict in northern Ethiopia and ensure a peaceful political resolution. A key component of the agreement was the mutual recognition of both parties and their commitment to work together toward full implementation.
As part of this agreement, the Ethiopian government removed the TPLF from its list of terrorist organisations, signalling a step toward reconciliation and reintegration. However, the government’s refusal to reinstate the TPLF on the Ethiopian Election Board contradicts the spirit of the agreement. By creating an artificial legal barrier to TPLF’s political participation, the government is undermining the peace process and failing to uphold its commitments. This exclusion not only weakens the prospects for long-term stability but also disenfranchises millions of Tigrayans, who deserve to have their political representatives participate in the country’s democratic processes.
The continued marginalisation of Tigrayans has had severe humanitarian consequences. More than two million Tigrayans remain internally displaced, with limited access to food, shelter, and medical assistance. An additional 70,000 Tigrayans have fled to Sudan, where they face harsh conditions in refugee camps. The situation is exacerbated by the continued occupation of key territories such as Erob, Zalambesa, Western Tigray, and parts of Raya, which remain under the control of Eritrean forces and Amhara regional militias. The Ethiopian government’s failure to facilitate the return of displaced Tigrayans to their homes is another violation of the Pretoria Agreement.
The agreement explicitly called for the withdrawal of all foreign and non-federal forces from Tigray. However, Eritrean troops and Amhara militias have not only remained in occupied territories but have also committed grave human rights violations, including ethnic cleansing, mass displacement, and widespread destruction of property. The Ethiopian government’s inaction in addressing these violations raises concerns about its commitment to a lasting peace. Without the restoration of Tigrayan territories and the safe return of displaced civilians, the implementation of the peace deal remains incomplete.
Given these challenges, it is imperative that the international community especially the United States and the African Union take a firm stance in pressuring the Ethiopian government to comply with the Pretoria Agreement.
As key stakeholders in the peace process, they have a responsibility to ensure that all aspects of the deal are honoured. This includes guaranteeing the political inclusion of the TPLF, facilitating the return of displaced persons, and ensuring the withdrawal of all occupying forces. Diplomatic pressure, economic incentives, and targeted sanctions should be considered to hold the Ethiopian government accountable for its commitments.
Without full compliance, Ethiopia risks returning to instability, and millions of Tigrayans will continue to suffer. The Pretoria Agreement was a historic opportunity for peace, but its success depends on genuine commitment from all parties involved. The Ethiopian government must uphold its obligations and work toward true reconciliation, rather than deepening divisions through exclusionary and contradictory policies.
