Mekelle, January 27 , 2025 (Tigray Herald)
Strong Condemnation and Urgent Appeal Regarding the Violence Against Peaceful Demonstrators and Innocent Civilians in Tigray
Subject: Strong Condemnation and Urgent Appeal Regarding the Violence Against Peaceful Demonstrators and Innocent Civilians in Tigray
Dear Members of the International Community,
The Tigrayan Advocacy for Human Rights and Justice International (TAHRJI) is deeply alarmed and outraged by the ongoing atrocities committed by the TPLF-led armed forces under the command of General Fisseha Kidanu (Manjus). These acts of brutality, particularly in Wukro Kilte Awulaelo and other cities across Tigray, represent a gross violation of fundamental human rights, international law, and universal principles of freedom and dignity.
The recent violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrators—primarily youth—who courageously denounce war, violence, and oppression is a grave injustice. These innocent civilians, including women, children, and young people advocating for peace, democracy, and stability, have been indiscriminately terrorised, beaten, and silenced. The targeted violence against peaceful youth movements opposing another devastating genocidal war on Tigray is utterly reprehensible and must be unequivocally condemned.
Strong Condemnation of TPLF-Led Army Actions
We strongly condemn the deliberate use of force, terror, and violence against innocent civilians.
These actions violate international humanitarian law and the universal rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and protection from harm. General Fisseha Kidanu’s directives to target youth and civilian populations represent not strength, but cowardice and a betrayal of the fundamental values of humanity.
Solidarity with the People of Tigray
To the brave youth and civilians of Wukro, Adigrat, Mekelle, and all cities across Tigray, we stand with you in unwavering solidarity. You are not alone. We are following your courageous movements and are inspired by your resilience and determination to advocate for peace and justice. Your voices are powerful, and your peaceful struggle represents the will of the Tigrayan people for a brighter and more democratic future.
Call to Action for the International Community
We urgently call upon:
The United Nations to investigate and address these violations of human rights.
The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of African Affairs, and USAID should condemn and take action against the TPLF-led military violence, supporting accountability mechanisms and providing humanitarian assistance. The European Union Human Rights Council to demand an immediate end to the violence and to impose sanctions on individuals responsible for these atrocities, including General Fisseha Kidanu.
The United Kingdom and other global human rights organisations to amplify the voices of Tigrayan civilians and advocate for justice, accountability, and peace.
We also call on all Tigrayan civic organisations, advocacy groups, and the global diaspora to condemn the human rights abuses inflicted CNNob the youth demonstrators and demand justice for the victims of these heinous crimes.
To the TPLF Leadership and Armed Forces
To the TPLF leadership and its armed forces, particularly General Fisseha Kidanu, know that your actions of terrorising and silencing innocent civilians to suppress people’s rights will strengthen their rights to demand democracy and good governance. TPLF leadership and its armed forces will be accountable for human rights abuses. You will not succeed in suppressing the will of the Tigrayan people. The voices of the youth and the collective determination of the people for peace, democracy, and freedom will prevail. Justice and accountability will find those responsible for these crimes.
The Tigrayan Advocacy for Human Rights and Justice International stands resolute in condemning the ongoing violence against peaceful demonstrators and civilians. We call on the international community to act urgently to prevent further bloodshed and hold perpetrators accountable.
Tigrayan Advocacy for Human Rights and Justice International
