ePRP Accuses Government of Preparing Public for New Conflict
Ethiopia’s opposition People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP) has accused the federal government of pushing the northern Tigray region towards another war.
The party claims Addis Ababa is running a propaganda campaign aimed at preparing citizens psychologically for possible military action against Tigray.
Tensions Rise Over Alleged Forced Recruitment
The accusations come after the Ethiopian government organised a demonstration in Addis Ababa over allegations of forced conscription by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF).
Human Rights Watch has also accused Tigrayan authorities of abducting and unlawfully recruiting civilians, including children as young as 15.
The TPLF has denied allegations of forced recruitment, rejecting claims that it is compelling civilians to join its forces.
TPLF Leader Calls for Defence Preparations
Despite denying forced conscription claims, TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael called on Tigrayans to “restore their honour” by preparing to defend the region’s sovereignty.
He said Tigray’s security could not be guaranteed through peace alone, raising concerns about renewed tensions between the regional authorities and the federal government.
Fears of Renewed Conflict
The latest developments have revived fears that Ethiopia’s northern region could face another devastating conflict.
Tigray was at the centre of a brutal civil war between the TPLF and Ethiopia’s federal government from 2020 to 2022.
The conflict resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of people and displaced millions, creating one of Africa’s most severe humanitarian crises.
Although a peace agreement was signed in 2022, political disagreements, security concerns and disputes over regional power have continued to fuel tensions.
The EPRP has urged the government to avoid actions that could push the country back into another cycle of violence.
