Statement by Salsay Weyane Tigray Regarding Remarks by H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo on Occupied Tigrayan Territories.

Salsay Weyane Tigray issues this urgent statement to express grave concern and strong condemnation regarding remarks made by H.E. Olusegun Obasanjo, the African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa, during yesterday’s High-Level Meeting to Assess the Progress on the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA).

Reports indicate that H.E. Obasanjo suggested placing remaining constitutional Tigrayan territories under the control of a “neutral body,” which he indicated to be the Federal Government of Ethiopia and its allies. We must emphasize that the Federal Government is a party to the CoHA, not a neutral entity. Furthermore, these territories are currently occupied by the Federal Government and its allies, following their forced displacement of Tigrayan populations—actions widely recognized as constituting international crimes, including genocide and ethnic cleansing.

H.E. Obasanjo’s suggestion directly contravenes the spirit and provisions of the Pretoria Agreement, which explicitly prioritizes the restoration of constitutional order as a fundamental pillar for achieving lasting peace. The agreement contains no provision for continued Federal Government occupation of any territory, nor prior to the occupation has any formal claim been legally substantiated in accordance with the FDRE Constitution.

This statement risks legitimizing the illegal invasion and the grave human rights abuses perpetrated against Tigrayans in Western and Southern Tigray. It effectively rewards those responsible for these heinous crimes.

Therefore, Salsay Weyane Tigray unequivocally rejects this statement as inconsistent with the CoHA and the FDRE Constitution, and as detrimental to the ongoing peace process. We demand its immediate retraction and clarification.

We further implore the international community, and all stakeholders to the peace agreement, particularly the AU-mandated Monitoring and Verification Team, to expedite the implementation of critical commitments outlined in the agreement. This includes the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all invading forces, and the safe and dignified return of internally displaced persons and refugees. These actions must be undertaken with the utmost urgency and with due regard for human suffering.

Salsay Weyane Tigray
February 17, 2025
Me’qelle, Tigray