The Deputy Chairman of the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF), Amanuel Assefa, stated in a press conference yesterday that the TPLF’s principles are transparent, emphasizing its commitment to peace with all peoples. The TPLF aims for peaceful relationships with regions such as Afar, Amhara, Sudan, and Eritrea, following the guidelines of the Pretoria Agreement. Amanuel clarified that the TPLF is not involved in any other relationships or conspiracies.

The TPLF has been defamed for having ties with Eritrea. This strategy aimed to align any opposition to the Eritrean government against the TPLF and against Tigray. The discussions broke down due to a lack of substantial evidence. Currently, the defamation persists, associating them with FANO, referred to as the enemy. It is argued that it is not justifiable to incite animosity towards the TPLF while issuing such misleading statements Ammanuel stated.

Furthermore, Amanuel announced that the TPLF has initiated a process to evaluate its leadership structure. As a result, Getachew Reda has been expelled from the membership and removed from his role in the interim administration. Amanuel asserted that this decision was made in line with transparent political criteria and performance evaluations. He dismissed accusations that the TPLF has unlawfully seized power, arguing that the party has historically competed for political mandates through democratic means.

Ammanuel declared that the body comes to the leadership will proceed through dialogues with the federal government. He mentioned that discussions are currently active, and a statement will be released following the conclusion of these talks and the finalization of an agreement. “We are committed to ongoing negotiations with the federal government to safeguard our people’s interests,” he affirmed.

Amanuel also stated that the TPLF had been gaining and exercising political power through competition. It is unacceptable to accuse the TPLF of seizing power without democratic elections and without the participation of the people.

 The Deputy Chairman Amanuel also stated that the Tigray Army is a force of existence, established and organized by the people of Tigray to ensure their existence, security, rights, and national interests. “We stated this yesterday, we reiterate it today, and we will continue to do so tomorrow. This is a cause that the TPLF has consistently championed.”

During his press conference, Amanuel emphasized the importance of providing continued support to former combatants, establishing a response plan, and facilitating the disarmament demobilization and reintegration process (DDR) into their communities. He explained the DDR process was established as a precondition in the Pretoria Agreement, it should be implemented when armed forces outside of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces exit Tigray territories.

Amanuel Assefa mentioned that the disarmament demobilization and reintegration process (DDR) program is in line with the TPLF’s goals, with no conflicts. However, he criticized the lack of transparency in the implementation of these programs and highlighted the importance of using biometric data for consultation. He urged individuals to focus on building sustainable lives despite the challenges they face.

Amanuel Assefa commented on the interim administration, stating that its missions were to maintain peace and security, ensure the reconstruction of the region, implement the Pretoria Agreement, and uphold justice and the rule of law. He outlined the goals as ensuring accountability for acts of genocide and establishing the conditions necessary for the formation of a democratically elected government. However, he said that the leadership of the interim administration lacked a clear plan over the past two years. and the interim administration has not done these hired and assigned tasks,” he said.

 Amanuel stated that the interim administration is taking measures to dismantle or divide the TPLF and is moving to take control of the army to establish military governance. The interim administration has reportedly come under the influence of individuals who are not complying with the terms of the Pretoria agreement.