Mekelle፡Telaviv, Nairobi, Pretoria, London,March 24፡2025 (Tigray Herald)
Military Dominance & the Declining Civilian Authority in Tigray:
By Esyas
Since time immemorial, Tigray has been vulnerable to external and internal aggression, and the military has played a crucial role in defending Tigray. This is a fact. The sacrifice made by the brave men and women of Tigray is immeasurable. I have immense respect for the price they paid!
However, the recent growing trend of military personnel actively engaging politically (any side), taking sides, endorsing a particular ideology, and influencing governance erodes constitutionalism. Military dominated rule and democratic governance (ዴሞክራሲያዊ ምሕደራ) are inversely related. Democratic institutions are only strengthened by civilian rule, which assures accountability, rule of law, and inclusive governance.
While the bravery of Tigrayans can not be questioned, a separation of politics and military affairs and ensuring civilian rule is the foundation for democratic governance.