A dissident faction within the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has taken control of key offices, including the mayor’s office and a radio station, in Mekelle, the capital of Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region.
This move has escalated tensions and raised concerns about a potential return to civil war.
The power struggle within the TPLF has been intensifying, with Getachew Reda, president of Tigray’s interim administration, accusing the rival faction, led by Debretsion Gebremichael, of attempting to forcefully remove him from office.
Getachew has suspended three generals of the Tigray Defence Forces, accusing the rival faction of trying to destabilize the region.
The situation has sparked anxiety among residents, with many withdrawing money from their bank accounts, fearing the security situation could deteriorate.
The international community, including the US, Britain, and the European Union, has warned against a return to violence.
In a press statement, Getachew accused his rivals of colluding with neighboring Eritrea, which has a fractious relationship with Ethiopia’s government.
Eritrea denies any involvement, but its army fought in the previous war, where it was accused of mass killings and rape.
The African Union has expressed “deep concern” over the developments, while France has advised its nationals in Tigray to exercise caution.
The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation.
