Official Statement from the Cabinet of the Interim Administration of Tigray

Decisions made by any entity that contravene the law are unacceptable!

Following alledged decision from the House of Federation and the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), the Cabinet of the Interim Administration of Tigray has taken a decision. The Cabinet concluded that the Electoral Board’s latest announcement as an illegal and provocative act that violates the Constitution.

This decision is a direct attack on our people, designed to dismantle Tigray by detaching its land and its people. The Cabinet makes it clear that there is no legal justification for this action, and it does not serve any justified interest of any people.

Attempting to detach these areas from Tigray is a cynical political maneuver intended to spark horizontal violence between fraternal peoples. It ignores the historical and constitutional reality that these lands and residents are an integral part of Tigray. Even during the so-called “law enforcement” operation used to justify the genocidal war against Tigray, such claims never appered in the Federal Government’s narratives.

The Cabinet firmly believes that any claims regarding territory must be resolved through legal mechanisms and peaceful dialogue, not through actions that fuel enduring violence. The Cabinet rejects these unlawful decisions and insist that any differences with our neighbors, the Amhara people, must be addressed through discussion and established legal frameworks.

The House of Federation has exceeded its constitutional authority by making these determinations without any representation from Tigray. By complying with these orders and abdicating its independence, the Electoral Board has become complicit in a conspiracy that risks plunging Tigray into an even deeper crisis.

However, the response from all Tigrayans who have set aside their political differences to stand united has demonstrated our true strength to the world. This collective resolve to protect our survival and dignity is precisely once again expressed and renewed. Also, we thank our fellow Ethiopians from other communities who have stood with us against this injustice, and we urge those supporting this misguided action to reconsider immediately.

We call on the Ethiopian Government to rectify this decision without delay. It is a move devoid of justice that risks a disaster far greater than the challenges we face today.

While Tigrayans have paid a heavy price for the right to vote, a fair election cannot be conducted under the current conditions. Before any referendum can take place, occupied lands must be liberated, displaced persons must be able to return home with dignity, and a peaceful environment must be established. Forcibly alienating Tigrayan territory is an act that neither history nor the law will forget. Once our rights and our land are restored, we look forward to an election that includes all political parties.

Our unity proves that Tigrayans will never surrender their identity. Peace remains our constant choice, and we urge the government to focus on fostering unity rather than spreading division and hatred.

Eternal Honor and Glory to our Martyrs!

February 24, 2026
Cabinet of the Interim Administration of Tigray
Mekelle