Release of TPLF Leaders: A Positive Step Towards Peace in Tigray

ADDIS ABABA, ( GO) - The Pretoria peace agreement, signed in December 2020, has been a beacon of hope for the people of Tigray in Ethiopia. The conflict in the region, which began in November 2020, has caused widespread destruction, displacement, and suffering.

The signing of the agreement between the federal government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) has been a positive step towards resolving the crisis and bringing relief to the affected population.

Since the signing of the agreement, there have been several developments that indicate progress towards peace and stability in the region. One of the most significant is the release of TPLF leaders who had been held in detention for nearly two years.

The termination of criminal charges against them, as part of the Pretoria accord, is a significant move towards reconciliation and a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

The individuals who were released from jail include Keria Ibrahim, former Speaker of the House of Federation and Executive Member of the TPLF; Dr. Abraham Tekeste, former Minister of Finance and Economic Cooperation and Executive Member of the TPLF; and Dr. Addis Alem Balema, former Board Member of Ethiopian Airlines, a member of parliament and of the TPLF's Executive Committee.

Dr. Addis Alema is also known for his acclaimed book "Democracy and Economic Development in Ethiopia" and was appointed as Director General of Policy Research Institute by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in February 2020.

The agreement has also allowed for the delivery of humanitarian aid to Tigray, where there have been reports of famine, displacement, and atrocities against civilians. The UN has reported that more than five million people in Tigray are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, and the Pretoria agreement has allowed for the delivery of aid to some of the most affected areas.

As part of the peace agreement, the federal government has also committed to rebuilding infrastructure, restoring basic services, and facilitating the safe return of displaced persons. The progress made so far is an indication that the agreement is bearing fruit, and there is hope for a lasting peace in the region.

The Pretoria peace agreement has brought hope for a peaceful Ethiopia, particularly in the troubled region of Tigray, through the release of TPLF leaders and the delivery of humanitarian aid, which are significant steps towards promoting reconciliation and a culture of peace. While more work remains, the progress made so far is encouraging and offers a path towards a brighter future for all Ethiopians.

GAROWE ONLINE