Tigray’s Betrayal and Ethiopia’s Future: Crisis, Unity, and Reform (Part One)

Editor’s note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com

By Sirak Zena 

Abstract

This article is part of a two-part series examining the crisis in Tigray and its broader implications for Ethiopia’s future. Part One critically analyzes the betrayals, war, and humanitarian devastation that have shaped Tigray’s current reality, highlighting the internal and external forces contributing to its suffering. From the TPLF’s governance failures to the federal government’s military assault, it exposes the systemic issues underlying the conflict. Part Two shifts the focus toward political solutions, exploring pathways for internal reconciliation, strategic alliances with other marginalized groups, and Tigray’s role in shaping a more just and stable Ethiopia.

The crucial nature of this analysis is paramount. With hundreds of thousands dead, millions displaced, and the region’s infrastructure in ruins, Tigray stands at a critical juncture. This series argues that Tigray’s fate is linked to Ethiopia’s political transformation. It proposes concrete steps for rebuilding, including fostering internal unity, forming cross-ethnic alliances, and advocating for systemic reforms in Ethiopia’s federal structure.

These articles examine both the historical context and future possibilities, offering a comprehensive understanding of Tigray’s challenges and the possibilities for its future transformation. They call for immediate action from local leaders, the federal government, and the international community to address the humanitarian crisis and pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the region and the country.

These articles examine a regional issue and propose reconfiguring Ethiopia’s political environment to foster peace, justice, and development for Tigray and the nation.

I. Introduction: The Betrayal of Tigray: A Crisis Unfolding

In the heart of Ethiopia, a crisis unfolds that challenges not only a region’s fate but also a nation’s soul. Tigray’s betrayal is a stark testament to the perils of ethnic politics, authoritarian rule, and the fragility of national unity. Yet, within this crucible of conflict lies an opportunity for transformation that extends far beyond Tigray’s borders.

This article embarks on a journey through the layers of betrayal that have scarred Tigray, from the failures of its political elite to the federal government’s brutal response. We Investigate the complex tapestry of historical grievances, political ambitions, and human suffering that have brought us to this critical juncture. However, our exploration does not end with an account of tragedy; instead, it seeks to illuminate a path forward.

As we navigate through the aftermath of war and the challenges of rebuilding, we confront uncomfortable truths and explore bold possibilities. Can Tigray’s struggle become a catalyst for reimagining Ethiopia’s future? Is there a way to honor ethnic identity while forging a stronger, more unified nation? These questions are not merely academic; they are the crucible in which Ethiopia’s future will be shaped.

From the ashes of conflict, we examine the potential for a new political landscape in which Tigray’s resilience drives national reform, alliances transcend ethnic lines, and justice and accountability pave the way for lasting peace.

This is not just Tigray’s story; it is Ethiopia’s reckoning—a moment that demands reflection, courage, and a collective reimagining of what it means to be a diverse nation in the 21st century. As we embark on this exploration, we invite you to look beyond the headlines, engage with the complexities, and envision a future where the ugly betrayal gives way to renewal and division yields a stronger, more inclusive Ethiopia.

This piece offers a unique perspective by examining Tigray’s crisis through the lens of historical betrayals, current political complexities, and future possibilities. It provides an extensive framework for collectively comprehending and tackling Tigray and Ethiopia’s difficulties.

Join us as we unravel the past, confront the present, and dare to dream of a future where Tigray’s pain becomes the birthplace of a nation reborn.

II. The Illusion of Liberation: The TPLF and the Betrayal of a Promise 

For seventeen years, the people of Tigray fought a grueling war, their sacrifices fueling a dream of liberation. The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) rose to power on this wave of hope, promising Tigray a golden age of self-determination and prosperity. This promise, however, proved to be a cruel deception. While ethnic federalism granted Tigray administrative autonomy and the preservation of its culture and language, the anticipated era of self-governance quickly devolved into a profound betrayal.

The 1991 victory, initially hailed as a triumph, marked the beginning of a devastating period for Tigrayan society. The TPLF, once celebrated as liberators, became architects of their people’s suffering, prioritizing control over genuine freedom. This manifested in the suppression of freedom of the press, the suppression of opposition parties, and the persecution of those who dared to challenge the TPLF’s authority. Dissent was equated with treason, forcing conformity of thought and action upon the Tigrayan people. The TPLF’s actions suggest a struggle to liberate the land, not its people. This betrayal extended beyond Tigray. 

It was part of a more significant Ethiopian tragedy exposing the fundamental flaws of ethnic federalism and the missed opportunities for national unity and equitable development. The shared Ethiopian identity, potentially a foundation for mutual support and progress, was undermined by the TPLF and the TPLF-led EPRDF government. The failure of ethnic federalism and the TPLF’s actions contributed to immense suffering and highlighted the devastating consequences of broken promises and the suppression of dissent. 

III. The Facade of Progress

As the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) consolidated its grip on national power, Tigray became a neglected region, sacrificed to pursue its leadership’s ambitions. The ruling elite, intoxicated by the allure of power, constructed an elaborate facade of progress. They heralded illusory achievements, while the reality in Tigray presented a starkly contrasting narrative.

Educational institutions in most areas deteriorated, their crumbling walls silent testaments to unfulfilled promises. Despite hailing Tigray as a model of progress, many schools struggled with inadequate resources, and healthcare facilities severely lacked essential supplies. Meanwhile, the political and economic elite sought medical treatment abroad, reinforcing a system where privilege dictated access to fundamental services.

Despite the region’s historical resilience, economic opportunities were not addressed as they should have been. The engines of development—critical for regional growth—were either overlooked or insufficiently prioritized. Instead of investing in rebuilding Tigray, many wealthy individuals from the region chose to migrate and invest elsewhere, from the capital, Addis Ababa, to the borders of Gambella, Somalia, and Benishangul. While investment beyond one’s homeland is not inherently harmful, when unemployment was rampant in Tigray, and the region desperately needed reconstruction, this trend appeared more as a march toward personal wealth than a commitment to revitalizing a war-torn homeland. The youth of Tigray faced a future stripped of opportunity.

In the face of growing economic despair, some in Addis resorted to cynicism, reducing Tigray’s reality to a cruel paradox. I often encountered individuals mockingly claiming that “Tigray would soon sink below sea level because of the wealth and goods supposedly transferred there by the TPLF.” This cynicism often blended with resentment toward the ruling party, ultimately hurt ordinary Tigrayans the most—those who neither controlled state resources nor reaped the benefits of political privilege.

I recall a moment in 1996 when I traveled to Axum for research. The words of Tigray’s supposed ‘submergence’ lingered in my mind as I landed at Axum Airport. However, the first person I encountered was not an official or a businessman but an older woman seeking help. That moment laid bare the gap between rhetoric and reality, similar to situations I observed during my stay. The grand claims of economic transformation stood in stark contrast to the daily struggles of ordinary Tigrayans. This disparity’s irony was apparent to me: accusations against the TPLF of concentrating wealth in Tigray coexisted with the profound hardship many of its people still faced.

This disconnect between perceived progress and lived reality highlights the complexity of Tigray’s post-war economic narrative. Despite achievements, failing to develop inclusively left many behind—a lesson the region must heed as it rebuilds and redefines its future.

This systemic neglect transcended mere incompetence; it represented a troubling breach of trust. The TPLF leadership, driven by an insatiable quest for national influence, willfully abandoned the populace that had facilitated their rise to power. They opportunistically exploited Tigrayan identity when it aligned with their goals while consigning the region to a state of underdevelopment. This negligence in prioritizing equitable development across Ethiopia escalated tensions and ultimately fueled conflicts. The lack of investment in Tigray harmed its inhabitants and deprived the nation of potential contributions to overall prosperity.

After losing power and retreating to Tigray, the TPLF faced a moment of reckoning when it explicitly acknowledged the neglect of the Tigrayan people and issued a formal apology.

IV. The Cult of TPLF: Understanding Political Idolization in Tigray

The Myth of Liberation and Political Worship

The TPLF received praise as the champion of Tigrayan resistance and self-determination. Over its seventeen-year armed struggle, it cultivated a narrative of heroism and sacrifice, embedding itself into the core of Tigrayan identity. For many, the TPLF was not merely a political party but synonymous with Tigrayan survival, dignity, and liberation. However, this fusion of party and identity created a dangerous form of political idolization, where loyalty to the party became inseparable from loyalty to Tigray.

Narrative Control and Psychological Manipulation

The TPLF meticulously shaped its public image, ensuring that its political dominance extended beyond governance into the very consciousness of the people. It maintained control through:

• Historical Mythmaking: The TPLF mythologized its role in overthrowing the Derg, portraying the party as the sole guardian of Tigrayan interests.
• Education and Media Control: Schools and state media promoted a TPLF-centered historical narrative, thus ensuring generations’ loyalty to the party
• Political and Economic Patronage: Access to employment, business opportunities, and political positions increasingly became contingent upon allegiance to the TPLF, establishing a loyalty system predicated on dependence.

These mechanisms obscured the distinction between Tigrayan identity and TPLF governance, rendering dissent indistinguishable from betrayal. The TPLF ensured its continued status as the unchallenged arbiter of Tigrayan political discourse by systematically suppressing alternative political voices.

The Price of Blind Loyalty

This unquestioning allegiance exacted a devastating toll. The TPLF leadership, insulated from internal scrutiny, became detached from the genuine struggles of the populace. Attention shifted from regional development to the consolidation of national power, prioritizing political survival over the welfare of Tigray.

• Economic Stagnation and Underdevelopment: During its tenure, the TPLF prioritized national-level political maneuvers over regional economic empowerment, leaving Tigray in economic fragility.
• Political Stagnation: Suppression of dissent inhibited the emergence of alternative leaders capable of challenging ineffective policies.
• Failure to Prevent War: Operating under an assumption of invincibility, the TPLF misjudged its capacity to confront the federal government, culminating in a catastrophic war that devastated Tigray.

Breaking Free: The Path to Political Maturity

The legacy of a single party must not control the future of Tigray. Progress requires:

1. Separation of Tigrayan identity from TPLF authority—no political party should monopolize the people’s aspirations.
2. Promoting political plurality facilitates the emergence of new voices and alternative leadership.
3. Accountability and sincere reflection—recognizing the failures of the TPLF rather than rationalizing them through a lens of past heroism.

The strength of Tigray must derive from democratic institutions rather than party loyalty. The time has come for a new political landscape where leadership is earned, not inherited, and dissent is perceived not as treason but as an essential component of governance. Tigray must dismantle the TPLF cult to reclaim its future.

However, this does not imply that the TPLF needs to be dismantled as an organization. Instead, Tigray must dismantle the TPLF’s monopoly on Tigrayan politics. The organization can continue to exist if it chooses to.

V. The Mask Slips: Descent into Chaos

As the winds of change swept through Ethiopia, displacing the nation from its previously favorable position, the TPLF leadership unveiled its proper disposition. They opted for conflict and chaos over the gracious acceptance of the people’s will and the pursuit of reconciliation. When the TPLF put together a defense army that wasn’t well established or prepared and then held parades in the streets of Mekelle, it was clear that Abiy wanted to start a fight, which was already part of his plan. The war erupted in November 2020 represented a grave military miscalculation and a profound breach of public trust, all under the guise of defending the people. In a reckless bid for power, under the pretext of safeguarding the citizens of Tigray, the TPLF invited the full consequences of war upon its populace, transforming Tigray into a battleground for its ambitions and exhibiting scant regard for the catastrophic repercussions that would follow.

However, the Ethiopian government’s brutal response, which included war crimes and crimes against humanity in reaction to the TPLF’s actions, further intensified the conflict and exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. The application of excessive force and the targeting of civilian populations significantly contributed to widespread suffering. The people of Tigray experienced betrayal and became victims of their federal government. The absence of a unified national response that prioritized the well-being of the Tigray people over political considerations facilitated the escalation of the conflict, resulting in further betrayal by numerous actors within Ethiopia.

According to the BBC published on June 29, 2021, “Ethiopia’s Tigray war: The short, medium and long story.”  https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-54964378 ” The rift grew when the central government suspended funding for Tigray and cut ties with it in October. At the time, Tigray’s administration said this amounted to a “declaration of war.”

Tensions increased, and the eventual catalyst came when Tigrayan forces were accused of attacking army bases to steal weapons. Mr Abiy said Tigray had crossed a “red line “

The controversial partnership with Isaias of Eritrea and the acquisition of drones indicate that the Abiy regime was preparing for possible military engagement in the months preceding the conflict.

This conflict arose from escalating tensions between the federal government and the TPLF throughout 2020, which included disputes over postponed elections, Tigray’s unilateral regional election, and the federal government’s subsequent decision to suspend funding to the Tigray region. Both parties blame one another for initiating the conflict; ultimately, the ferocity of the TPLF’s miscalculation and Abiy’s instigated war recall a century-defining battle fueled by animosity, which devastated the region and caused considerable suffering.

VI. War’s Inferno: The Human Cost of Conflict

This betrayal has left its mark in blood and tears across Tigray’s scarred landscape. Hundreds of thousands have perished, their aspirations and potential irrevocably extinguished. The conflict displaced millions, forcibly removing them from their homes and leaving them adrift in uncertainty. The fabric of Tigrayan society, woven over generations, has been brutally torn apart. The destruction inflicted upon Tigray defies comprehension. Once centers of learning and hope, schools now stand as bombed-out shells. Hospitals designed to heal and comfort have been looted and destroyed by foreign forces, specifically the Eritrean army. Factories and farms, the lifeblood of the region’s economy, lie in ruins. The cultural heritage of Tigray—a treasure trove of history and identity, including mosques and churches—has been systematically targeted and eradicated.

Image credit to: Doctors without Borders- Tigray refugees in Um Rakuba camp Sudan

Consider the plight of the 80,000 to 100,000 Tigrayans who fled the horrors of war crimes in their homeland, seeking refuge in Sudan. Instead of finding safety, they now find themselves trapped in a precarious situation, unable to escape the clutches of ongoing conflict. The humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by recent shifts in U.S. political policies, particularly the closures of USAID programs that once provided vital assistance. As a result, these Ethiopian citizens are now facing the grim reality of starvation, caught in a cycle of desperation and neglect. Their suffering is a stark reminder of the urgent need for international attention and action to alleviate their plight; they need our support.

While the Ethiopian government and Eritrean forces bear substantial responsibility for the atrocities committed, the TPLF leadership cannot evade their culpability. They failed in their most fundamental duty: to protect their constituents. They should know they were alone. Their strategic calculations and power plays came at the expense of countless Tigrayan lives. Yet, amidst the devastation, pockets of resistance and support emerged within Ethiopia. 

Contrary to the official narrative, very few Ethiopians voiced opposition to the war or attempted to provide aid and relief to the suffering populace of Tigray, demonstrating a powerful counter-narrative to the government’s position. However, the government quickly silenced these few voices; some were incarcerated, and others fled the country.

International organizations have documented that the TPLF and the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF) are not immune to allegations of criminal activity. Reports indicate that they have been involved in serious violations, including war crimes and extrajudicial killings, primarily targeting the Amhara and Afar populations. During the Tigray war, various parties, including the Ethiopian government, the Eritrean defense force, the TPLF, and other armed groups, committed serious crimes. These actions included attacks on civilians, sexual violence, and other violations of human rights. It’s important to understand that no party involved is immune from accountability for these crimes. All parties must face justice for their actions to ensure accountability and promote healing for the affected communities. The scale and severity of these actions are significant and warrant attention, particularly when considering the suffering experienced by all affected communities. 

Image credit to – Human Rights Watch; Ethiopia: Crimes Against Humanity in Western Tigray Zone(April 6, 2022)

However, it is essential to note that the Tigray people have endured particularly severe hardships during this conflict. While the Amhara and Afar populations have also faced serious violations, the extent of suffering among the Tigray people has been notably profound, drawing considerable international attention. A comprehensive understanding of the situation requires recognizing the pain and trauma experienced by all sides while acknowledging the extraordinary challenges faced by the Tigray community.

Image credit to Amnesty International -Tigrayan forces murder, rape, and pillage in attacks on civilians in Amhara towns(Feb16,2022)

VII. Atrocities Echoing: The Conflict’s Unforgivable Legacy

The conflict in Tigray represents a harrowing testament to the depths of human suffering and the catastrophic consequences of warfare. Regardless of the initial instigator of this devastating conflict, the actions undertaken by government forces have unleashed a wave of atrocities and war crimes that are unequivocally unconscionable. This situation transcends a mere tragic episode in history, serving as a chilling reminder of the potential for brutality within the machinery of power.

Systematic violence, indiscriminate killings, and egregious acts of sexual violence have left an indelible mark on the social fabric, rendering this conflict one of the most horrific of the century. Civilians have borne the brunt of this onslaught, ensnared in a nightmare characterized by displacement, starvation, and fear. The government’s actions have not only decimated communities but have also stripped away essential aspects of humanity, resulting in a landscape that embodies grief and despair.

The gravity of the government’s crimes is further compounded by its decision to invite foreign military intervention from Eritrea, thereby deploying external forces against its citizens. This breach of trust constitutes a profound violation of human rights, sovereignty, and dignity.

The war crimes committed against Tigrayans were systematic, deliberate, and genocidal. Soldiers raped hundred thousand women and girls in front of their families, executed priests inside churches, and left elders to starve in their homes; many died from lack of medication. The violence was not random—it was policy. The pervasive war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Amhara and Oromia regions attest to the regime’s prevailing policy. 

Moreover, the foreign entities involved have perpetrated violence and looted hospitals, schools, and cultural institutions, thereby depriving communities of vital resources and historical artifacts while committing acts of sexual violence against civilian women. The ramifications of these actions have led to the decimation of communities and a further erosion of the essence of humanity, leaving a landscape marked by grief and despair.

As the global community observes these events, we must confront the harsh reality of these war crimes with unwavering resolve. We must tear down the veil of silence surrounding these atrocities, and the Ethiopian people must unequivocally demand accountability.

These atrocities are not just crimes against Tigray—they are crimes against humanity. The world may try to move on, but history will not forget.

VIII. The Power of Propaganda: Ethiopian Public Opinion During the Tigray Conflict

Many Ethiopians’ silence during the Tigray conflict stemmed from a complex interplay of historical grievances, government propaganda, and restricted information flow. The TPLF’s controversial legacy left lingering resentment, making it easier for some to accept the government’s narrative about the conflict initially.

The Abiy regime employed sophisticated propaganda techniques, framing the conflict as necessary for national unity and security. With a near-monopoly on information from Tigray and periodic restrictions on social media, the government created an information vacuum. International journalists faced significant obstacles in accessing the conflict zone.

In this environment of controlled information and historical biases, many Ethiopians did not initially question the government’s actions. Some believed they supported national interests, while others may have felt powerless to challenge the official stance or feared repercussions.

However, it is crucial to recognize that being subject to propaganda or lacking access to complete information does not absolve individuals of moral responsibility. While understanding the context is essential, it does not negate the ethical imperative to question authority, seek alternative viewpoints, and stand up for human rights.

Despite facing the same propaganda and information restrictions, some Ethiopians spoke out against the atrocities and advocated for peace. Others’ failure to do so, whether out of fear, indifference, or genuine belief in the government’s narrative, still contributed to the prolongation of the conflict and the suffering in Tigray. This painful chapter in Ethiopia’s history is a stark reminder of the collective responsibility to remain vigilant, critical, and compassionate despite powerful narratives and limited information.

This scenario highlights the insidious nature of propaganda and the challenges of accessing truth in times of conflict. It underscores the vital importance of free press, independent journalism, and critical thinking in a democracy, as well as the need for Ethiopians to confront and reconcile with their recent history.

IX. National Silence: Ethiopia’s Betrayal of Tigray

There is a wound deeper than war itself—a betrayal that does not come from the enemy’s guns but from the silence of those who should have stood against it. When Eritrean soldiers entered Tigray at the invitation of the Ethiopian government, pillaging, killing, and raping with unrestrained brutality, their actions were not just an invasion; they were a message: Tigray was abandoned.

But the most unforgivable betrayal did not come from Eritrea or even the Ethiopian government—it came from most Ethiopian people and religious leaders.

Where were the voices of outrage when foreign forces butchered Ethiopian citizens on Ethiopian soil? Where did national grief live when Tigrayan women faced violation, elders faced execution before their families, and entire villages faced coordinated massacres resulting in their eradication? The silence of the Ethiopian majority was not mere indifference—it was complicity.

This was not ignorance. The whole country watched as cities burned, as mothers wailed over their children’s corpses, and as people starved due to deliberate blockade policies. Some justified the horror, others dismissed it as “a political matter,” and too many turned away—as though the blood of Tigrayans did not carry the same worth as their own.

• Since when does a nation stay silent as foreign forces slaughter its people?
• Since when does a government invite invaders to slaughter its citizens?
• Since when does one region’s suffering become another region’s indifference?

Despite its slow response, the international community eventually called for Eritrea’s withdrawal. But inside Ethiopia, silence remained the loudest crime. In the streets of Addis Ababa, people carried on with their lives as if there were no death camps in Western Tigray, no mass graves in Axum, and no starving families in Mekelle. The same Ethiopians who once prided themselves on resistance against foreign invaders now stood by as a foreign army ravaged their people.

History will remember this silence. It will remember those who spoke out, but also those who chose apathy over humanity, who justified atrocities rather than confront the truth. The betrayal of Tigray was not just political—it was national. And when the dust settles, those who stood silent must answer for their indifference. We have begun to see that from the genuine ones and those with integrity and morals.

Tigray will survive, not because of the Ethiopian government or those Ethiopians who remained indifferent—but because of its resilience and the few voices who dared to stand for justice. History will remember the courage of those who spoke out and defied the tide of silence. However, so, too, will be the failure of those who chose apathy over humanity. One day, those who turned away will wish they had spoken—because silence is never forgotten.

“The world suffers a lot. Not because of the violence of bad people, but because of the silence of good people.”

― Napoleon

X. Betrayal’s Human Face: Personal Stories of Suffering

The betrayal’s consequences are visible in the emaciated faces of displaced families huddled in makeshift camps and enduring relentless hardships. The eyes of injured children, deprived of adequate care and confronted with irreparably compromised futures, reflect these dire consequences.

Reports from Tigray indicate that three to four individuals perish daily in these camps, with hundreds having already lost their lives. When political elites prioritize their honor at the expense of the suffering and death of their people, what other term can be applied but betrayal? The stark realities of this plight are further underscored by the perilous journeys undertaken by young Tigrayans fleeing Turkey and Europe, risking everything in their quest for survival.

Meanwhile, the elites responsible for this catastrophe remain insulated by their wealth and connections, continuing their power struggles from a position of comfort, untouched by the suffering they have inflicted. Their callous indifference to the plight of ordinary Tigrayans stands as perhaps the most damning indictment of their leadership. However, this suffering is not only borne by Tigrayans. The conflict has had a devastating impact on the entire nation, underscoring the interconnectedness of Ethiopian regions and the shared responsibility for addressing the crisis.

XI. Peace Mirage: The Illusion of Resolution

The Pretoria Agreement, lauded as a breakthrough, offered hope amidst the darkness. However, even this fragile promise has been trampled underfoot by the elites, who should be its foremost advocates. Internal power struggles and a refusal to relinquish control have left the agreement in disarray, squandering its potential for healing and reconciliation.

The TPLF leadership, more concerned with preserving their positions and monopoly on power than with rebuilding their devastated homeland, has once again betrayed the trust of the Tigrayan people. Their actions speak louder than any rhetoric—they prioritize their survival and power over the urgent needs of those they claim to represent. According to them, before they alleviate the suffering and misery of the people, the survival of the TPLF should take precedence. The recent report by the WFP, which involves collecting contributions from displaced citizens in the camp for an organization, is nothing short of reprehensible and disgraceful. This exploitation of vulnerable individuals in their time of need is an affront to human dignity and a blatant violation of ethical standards. Such actions must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

Image credit to ISS: Tigray must avert another cycle of war (Oct 16, 2024).

The failure to fully implement the Pretoria Agreement underscores a systemic failure within the Ethiopian political system to prioritize national unity and reconciliation over narrow political interests. The lack of concerted effort from all stakeholders—including the Ethiopian government, the weak Tigray Transitional Government, and the TPLF’s obstructionist actions in ensuring the agreement’s success—further highlights the depth of this betrayal. While they recognize that disputes among Tigrayan elites benefit Abiy’s desire to see a weakened Tigray, they are recklessly fulfilling the regime’s wishes. This constitutes a profound betrayal of the people of Tigray.

The Pretoria Agreement, also known as the Ethiopia–Tigray peace agreement or the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA), was signed on November 2, 2022, between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF). Key points of the agreement include:

1. Permanent cessation of hostilities and silencing of guns.
2. Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of TPLF combatants within 30 days of signing.
3. Restoration of essential services in the Tigray region.
4. Unhindered humanitarian access to Tigray.
5. Reestablishment of federal authority in Tigray, including Mekelle.
6. Removal of TPLF’s terrorist designation.
7. Creation of an inclusive interim administration in Tigray.
8. Commitment to resolve contested areas by the Ethiopian Constitution.
9. Withdrawal of foreign forces from Tigray.
10. Establishment of a monitoring and verification mechanism.

Although all points of agreement are meaningful, relevant actors/parties have glaringly overlooked two critical issues directly affecting the people of Tigray now. Foreign forces continue to occupy significant portions of Tigray—Ethiopian soil—subjecting civilians to the harsh realities of life under Eritrean soldiers. This occupation forces individuals to grapple with eroding their national identity and autonomy. The war has uprooted millions from their homes and land, leaving them to suffer in overcrowded camps, where starvation looms as a constant threat. What do we call a situation where citizens endure such profound hardship due to foreign occupation? Foreign occupation simultaneously compromises their nation’s and regional sovereignty, and their government and the world willfully neglect their suffering. We call it betrayal. It is a stark violation of human dignity and a failure to uphold the fundamental rights of the people of Tigray. We must address this immediately.

XII. Reckoning and Renewal: Pursuing Justice and Accountability

The Ethiopian government has committed numerous atrocities and war crimes, yet international agencies have inexplicably ceased their inquiries despite having substantial evidence available. This abandonment of investigation represents a profound betrayal by these organizations, undermining their responsibility to uphold justice and human rights.

Pursuing accountability and justice for these tragic events must remain a top priority. The international community must not only demand justice for the atrocities committed during the conflict by the Abiy regime but also hold all parties accountable for their actions. This commitment to justice is essential to ensure that such violations do not go unpunished and that the victims receive the recognition and reparations they deserve. Only through unwavering advocacy can we hope to achieve lasting peace and prevent future atrocities.

The time has come to hold the TPLF leadership accountable for their transgressions against the Tigrayan populace. They can no longer conceal themselves behind vacuous rhetoric and insincere assurances. Tigray’s historical and social capital has been its unity. However, these groups’ struggles for power, honor, and status now undermine this unity, leaving the populace amidst the devastation of war-torn Tigray.

The people demanded the repatriation of those evacuated from their homes and the restoration of lands acquired by Eritrea to Tigray, advocating for the liberation of its inhabitants. Furthermore, the people called for peace, tranquility, the reconstruction of Tigray, and the establishment of their elected government. Two years have passed while these parties engaged in conflict, overshadowing the pressing issues concerning the Tigray people.

However, accountability alone is insufficient. Tigray requires more than justice; it necessitates healing, reconstruction, and comprehensive reform of its political leadership. The resilience of the Tigrayan people, so cruelly tested, must now serve as the foundation for rebuilding. A new generation of leaders must emerge, dedicated to the welfare of their constituents rather than the pursuit of power and privilege. The Ethiopian government must also assume responsibility for exacerbating the conflict and obstructing the path to reconciliation. Accountability must extend to all implicated, ensuring that justice is served and mechanisms are established to prevent similar tragedies. This demands a fundamental shift in the Ethiopian political landscape, prioritizing inclusive governance and equitable development across all regions.

The author of this piece recently astutely notes that Abiy dared to advise or suggest that Tigray elites should resolve their issues through dialogue. This insipid advice is nothing short of a mockery and early notice for war! How disgraceful it is for Tigray to receive counsel from the prime enemy of both Tigray and Ethiopia, who should be held accountable! The fundamental question for the people of Tigray is not about waging war but about implementing the Pretoria Agreement. Yet, once again, Abiy has twisted the narrative, misinterpreting the conditions between peace and war. For him, war is merely a means of survival, a strategy to cling to power while disregarding the legitimate aspirations of the Tigrayan people. This is not just an insult; it is a blatant affront to the dignity and sovereignty of the Tigray people. It is time to reject this patronizing nonsense and stand firm against those who seek to undermine the questions and struggles of the people!

Why does Abiy harbor animosity toward Tigray? Tigray serves as a haunting reminder of the genocide he perpetrated against its people—a constant reflection of his guilt and the atrocities committed. The Tigrayan people embody the evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity on an international scale, standing resilient against a conflict he could not fully extinguish. Tigray represents Abiy’s Achilles’ heel, undermining his quest for absolute control over Ethiopia.

XIII. From Atrocity to Strategy: Rebuilding After Betrayal

The devastation inflicted upon Tigray transcends mere tragedy; it represents a calculated attempt to erase a people, their dignity, and their future. The war crimes, systematic cruelty, and hateful propaganda unleashed against the Tigrayan people – echoing the darkest chapters of history – demand unwavering condemnation. Justice must be served, and those responsible, including Abiy’s supporters, must be held accountable. This pursuit of justice is not merely a moral imperative but a fundamental step towards healing and rebuilding.

However, justice alone is insufficient. Outrage, while justified, cannot sustain a region. The deep wounds of war must become the foundation for a resilient future, not a festering source of perpetual suffering. Tigray faces a stark choice: remain defined by the betrayal it has endured or transform its suffering into a powerful catalyst for lasting change. The past, undeniably brutal, cannot dictate Tigray’s future. The next chapter in this struggle demands a strategic shift: from the urgency of survival to the leadership vision, from exposing atrocities to the meticulous work of rebuilding, uniting, and securing a rightful place within Ethiopia’s political landscape.

The critical question now is: How does Tigray forge a path towards a brighter future? The answer lies in a multifaceted approach: fostering internal unity and reconciliation amongst Tigrayans, forging strategic national alliances with other ethnic groups based on shared goals and mutual respect, and articulating a clear, compelling vision for a future beyond conflict—a future where justice, equity, and self-determination are not mere aspirations, but tangible realities. This requires a concerted effort to rebuild infrastructure, revive the economy, and address the trauma inflicted upon the Tigrayan people. The path ahead is challenging but pursuing a just and prosperous Tigray is a worthy and achievable goal.

XIV. Conclusion: From Betrayal to Reflection—What Lies Ahead for Tigray

Tigray’s past is a story of war, resilience, and profound betrayal—a history shaped by internal political failures and external repression. The suffering endured by its people is not just a humanitarian crisis; it is a stark reminder of how ethnic-based politics and authoritarian rule have failed Ethiopia as a whole.

The war has left behind scars that will take generations to heal. The collapse of institutions, the displacement of millions, and the deep-seated mistrust between political actors have created a fragile and uncertain reality. Nevertheless, Tigray’s struggle does not exist in isolation. Across Ethiopia, communities—whether in Amhara, Oromia, or Afar—face similar challenges under a system that thrives on division and repression.

Justice and accountability must be non-negotiable, but they alone cannot chart a future for Tigray. The real question is: What comes next? How does Tigray heal from within? How does it navigate the challenges of rebuilding while avoiding another cycle of political manipulation and power struggles? 

Most importantly, what role should Tigray play in Ethiopia’s transformation?

The answers to these questions lie in Part Two, where we shift from analyzing past betrayals to exploring the political, strategic, and national solutions that can shape Tigray’s future.

As we conclude our examination of Tigray’s betrayal and the profound challenges it faces, we must now turn our gaze toward the future. The path ahead is not merely about survival but about reimagining Tigray’s role in shaping Ethiopia’s destiny. In the following sections, we will explore strategies for internal unity, potential alliances, and avenues for national transformation that could emerge from this crisis.

Editor’s Note : Part II of this article will be published on Wednesday this week.

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