To calm tensions in the troubled Tigray region, the Ethiopian prime minister said he would appoint a new leader in the region.
Tigray’s interim president Getachew Reda fled to the capital, Addis Ababa earlier this month after his power struggle at the TPLF.
In a novel approach, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed asked Tigrayans to suggest who the new leaders in the region should become via email.
The internal strife has raised concerns that Tigley may resume civil war, with an estimated 500,000 lives.
Prime Minister Abiy said on Wednesday that Tigray’s leadership failed to create conditions for elections after the 2020-22 civil war, which allowed the TPLF to fight the Ethiopian federal government.
The peace agreement prevented the tough conflict and led to the establishment of a provisional government, whose mission was to run the region until the elections were held.
Getachew was appointed as part of the agreement to take over former leader Gebremichael.
But two weeks ago, DeBretsion led a TPLF faction that controlled Tigray Administration.
In a social media post on Wednesday, Prime Minister Abiy said that “because the reality on the ground”, “it is necessary to appoint a new president of the interim government.”
Abiy invites Tigray people to submit candidates via email.
He also said the two-year mission of the Provisional Government would be extended by one year.
Tigray has faced challenges since the signing of the peace agreement, including delays in the delay of TPLF troops and widespread humanitarian needs.
Several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union, have warned of recent power struggles, saying they must “no return to violence.”
Amid these concerns, Abiy acknowledged that the Ethiopian army is currently under excessive stretching, given the ongoing conflict in Oromia and Amhara. “My answer is peace,” he told the Ethiopian parliament last week.
The Tigray conflict is estimated to kill 500,000 people. All parties – including neighboring Eritrea, which supports the government – have been accused of grave abuse, such as mass killing of civilians and widespread sexual violence.
go bbcafrica.com More news about the African continent.
Follow us on Twitter @bbcafrica,on Facebook BBC Africa Or on Instagram bbcafraca
BBC Africa Podcast
