The Tigray Independence Party (TIP) acknowledges the initiation of the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process as a crucial component of the Pretoria Peace Agreement. While we support efforts to foster peace and stability in Tigray, our party is deeply concerned about the current approach to the DDR process and its potential implications for Tigray’s security, governance, and humanitarian situation, which we believe are more critical than the DDR itself. The key concerns include:

1. Concurrent Implementation of DDR and National Security of Tigray:

The Pretoria Peace Agreement mandates that the DDR process should proceed alongside measures to safeguard Tigray’s national security. However, critical issues remain unresolved, including the continued presence of various armed forces and Eritrean troops on Tigrayan territory, as well as the grave risk of a relapse into another round of genocidal war against the people of Tigray. Moreover, there is serious concern about who will protect Tigray if Tigrayan forces are disarmed, given the lack of trust in the ENDF, which waged a genocidal war in 2020 against Tigray and now claims responsibility for its protection.

2. Unresolved Humanitarian Needs:

Our party is alarmed by the slow progress in addressing urgent humanitarian concerns. The safe and voluntary return of IDPs to their homes as well as the provision of unfettered humanitarian aid to those in desperate need remain unaddressed.

3. Governance and Inclusivity Deficits:

The absence of an inclusive interim administration in Tigray undermines trust and hampers the effective implementation of the peace agreement. Opposition political parties, civil society organizations (CSOs), and the people of Tigray have been excluded from any participation and role in shaping the DDR process and other critical aspects of the agreement.

4. Lack of Transparency and Accountability:

We are also concerned about the limited information and consultation regarding the progress, planning, and objectives of the DDR process, as well as other commitments outlined in the Pretoria Agreement.

We, therefore, urge all stakeholders—both domestic and international—to urgently address the following pressing issues:

*Security Concerns Must Be Resolved: The immediate withdrawal of non-ENDF armed forces and the protection of Tigray’s borders are essential for creating a secure environment conducive to the DDR process.

*Humanitarian Needs Must Be Prioritized: Internally displaced persons must be supported to return to their homes safely and voluntarily, while humanitarian aid must be delivered without restrictions to all affected communities.

*Inclusive Governance is Crucial: A representative and inclusive interim administration must be established to build trust, ensure legitimacy, and facilitate the active participation of all stakeholders in the peace process.

*Transparency is Non-Negotiable: Political parties, CSOs, and the general public must be informed and consulted on the DDR process and other key provisions of the agreement to foster accountability and build public confidence.

The Tigray Independence Party reaffirms its unwavering commitment to a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Tigray. However, the success of the DDR process and the broader Pretoria Peace Agreement depends on addressing these unresolved issues. TIP calls on the federal government, international partners, and all relevant actors to take decisive action to fulfill the agreement’s promises to the people of Tigray.
We stand with the people of Tigray in demanding a peace process that prioritizes their security, rights, and aspirations. Transparency, inclusivity, and accountability are essential to ensuring that peace is not only achieved but sustained.