Mekelle፡Telaviv, Nairobi, Pretoria, London, (Tigray Herald)
Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review
Strategic
Editorial Report:
Raya Rising: Southern Tigray’s Peaceful Resistance Against Illegitimacy, War, and Tyranny
Prepared by: Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review Editorial TeamIn partnership with:
Leading Regional and International Political and Security Experts
Executive Summary
The people of Southern Tigray Zone-particularly from Raya and surrounding districts-have courageously launched a peaceful and well-organized public demonstration across all major urban centers. Their protest embodies a strong, legitimate call against the illegal actions of the Debretsion Gebremichael-led TPLF splinter faction, a group th has been officially revoked and de-legitimized by the Ethiopian Federal National Electional Board.
This demonstration sends a powerful, unified message from the people of Southern Tigray to all Tigrayans, the Federal Government of Ethiopia, and the international community.
This strategic report outlines the motivations, grievances, and political significance of
the Southern Tigray uprising, emphasizing the people’s demands for peace, justice,inclusive governance, and the full implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement. It is
a call to action for solidarity and justice across Tigray and the wider Horn of Africa.
Powerful Narrative Message:
“From Raya, With Resolve: A Peaceful Revolution for Tigray’s Unity and Justice.”
- Background and Context
The Debretsion Gebremichael-led TPLF splinter faction has been declared illegal by the Ethiopian National Election Board.
Despite its revocation, the faction continues to exercise forceful control over certain
territories in Tigray, including attempts to seize administrative power in Southern Tigray
by deploying military loyalists known as the “Above the Core” group.
Southern Tigray, particularly the Raya region, has become the frontline of a political an
civic resistance movement against authoritarianism, militarism, and corruption.
- Why the People Are Protesting Political and Administrative Grievances
Against the illegal seizure of district-level governance by TPLF-loyal forces, violating
civil administration protocols.Opposition to the unholy alliance between the TPLF splinter group and the Eritrean regime-seen as a betrayal of Tigray’s sovereignty.
Condemnation of political exclusion, discrimination, and favoritism against the Raya population in governance structures.
Demanding inclusive, people-elected governance-not leadership imposed by military decree.
Social Justice and Human Rights Demands
Demanding the full implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement to end hostilities
and rebuild Tigray. Calling for the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and restoration of Tigray’s territorial integrity.
Demanding an urgent and independent investigation into the attempted coup against
former Tigray Interim President Getachew Reda. Calling for justice for arbitrary killings, political imprisonment, and unlawful repression of reformist voices.
Demanding protection of freedom of expression, human rights, and democratic values.
Economic Justice and Environmental Protection
Demanding an immediate halt to illegal gold mining activities which exploit Tigray’s
resources and fund illicit operations.
Demanding independent investigation into widespread land grabbing in Mekelle,
Southern Tigray, and other urban districts.
- Southern Tigray Zone: A Model of Peaceful Resistance The demonstration has remained peaceful, disciplined, and inspirational. Major cities and rural districts in Raya stood still in solidarity.
This civic mobilization highlights:
The determination of the Raya people to pursue justice without resorting to violence.
The bravery of communities choosing peace, legality, and reform in the face of military
intimidation.A symbol of hope and democratic renewal in the post-genocide landscape of Tigray.
- Strategic Message to All Tigrayans
The Southern Tigray public demonstration sends a clear call:
“Regardless of political opinion or background, Tigray must unite to reject militarized authoritarianism and embrace a future of peace, justice, and democracy.”
- Message to the International Community
The Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review calls on international diplomatic communities,
humanitarian actors, and regional powers to:
Recognize the legitimacy of the Southern Tigray people’s demands.
Support democratic processes and transitional justice in Tigray.
Pressure the Ethiopian Federal Government to ensure the Pretoria Peace Agreement is
implemented fully
Condemn illegal militarized actions and support human rights and rule of law.
- Editorial Endorsement
The Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review editorial team fully endorses the peaceful
demonstration by the people of the Southern Tigray Zone-Raya.
Their actions exemplify:
The resilience of civilian-led democratic resistance. The necessity of inclusive governance for sustainable peace.A blueprint for a new political vision in Tigray-free from militarism, corruption, and dictatorship.
We commit to publishing and circulating this report widely among
Diplomatic missions in Ethiopia
International human rights and peacebuilding organizations African Union and UN agencies
Tigray diaspora networks and civic groups
- Conclusion and Call to Action
The peaceful uprising in Southern Tigray represents not just a protest-but a profound
declaration of political maturity, regional dignity, and civil resistance. This is a historic
moment. Let all Tigrayans, policymakers, and international actors take heed. Let truth and justice rise from Raya.Let the voice of the people be heard.
Prepared by:Horn of Africa Geopolitical Review Editorial BoardSupported by leading
regional and international security, political, and legal experts.
