The TPLF, led by Dr. Debretsion G/Michael, has announced its stand to launch a process to compensate for the two years lost in implementing the Pretoria Agreement.

Two years have passed since the signing of the Pretoria Peace Agreement. However, the TPLF stated in a press release on the occasion of the second anniversary of the agreement that major and essential components of the agreement have yet to be addressed.

“The significant issues, such as blockades and embargoes, which were supposed to be resolved under the agreement, remain unresolved, causing severe frustration among the people,” the statement read.

The TPLF expressed concern over the impact of these unaddressed issues on the youth of Tigray, noting that they have become victims of migration, scarcity of resources, and harsh living conditions. Concerns were also raised over the condition of Tigrayan refugees in Sudan, who, according to the statement, are suffering “dire humanitarian conditions.”

The TPLF further stated that residents in Southern Tigray and Tselemti endure “continuous harassment, sexual violence, livestock raids, imprisonment,” and are being “forced to alter their identities as part of a calculated scheme.”

“The Ethiopian government’s lack of urgency and commitment to addressing the key elements of the Pretoria Agreement is the reason for the stagnation in implementation. International pressure on the Ethiopian government from various organizations involved in the agreement is also inadequate,” the statement continued.

The TPLF urged the Ethiopian government to take immediate steps to reinstate the legal status of the TPLF and engage in political dialogue. Additionally, the TPLF called for full implementation of the Pretoria Agreement, which includes the withdrawal of occupying forces, repatriation of displaced people, and the reconstruction of Tigray. Currently, more than 48% of Tigray is still under the control of Amhara and Eritrean forces.

On the second anniversary of the Pretoria Agreement, the TPLF reaffirmed its commitment to working towards compensating for the lost time. The TPLF also appealed to the Ethiopian government, the international community, human rights organizations, European union (EU), IGAD, African union (AU) and other stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities.

Lastly, ” The TPLF urges all parties to actively participate in the upcoming African Union panel review scheduled for November 2024 to evaluate the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement. The TPLF is prepared for this evaluation,” the statement concluded