EVN (September 7) – Getachew Reda, the President of the Interim Administration of Tigray, disclosed the existence of an organized group impeding the expansion of the region’s temporary governance structure into all zones and districts.
During a press conference held in Mekele, Getachew highlighted the presence of districts currently excluded from the interim administration’s purview, citing hindrances in the form of obstruction to the utilization of the new official seal. Emphasizing the detrimental impact on the populace, the President called for the prompt completion of the interim administration until the elected government assumes control.
Although specific individuals responsible for budget allocation and obstructing the structural development were not named by Getachew, he indicated that the matter would be subject to internal party review. Additionally, he noted the existence of TPLF leaders labeled as anti-interim administration and proponents of the new separation between the party and government.
Getachew further disclosed the presence of undisclosed prisons within the region, housing affluent citizens’ family members as hostages, with ransom demands. He underscored the precarious security situation, extending even to accompanying officials. Ato Getachew indicated the right of regional opposition parties to hold peaceful demonstrations starting tomorrow, but expressed concerns about potential violence incitement by groups assembling explosives at a heightened level. Discussions with leaders were ongoing to revise the demonstration’s location and timing accordingly.
The President also affirmed the continued strength of the Tigray Defence Force, with a reported combatant force exceeding 270,000. Getachew outlined plans for Tigrian forces to cooperate with federal counterparts to quell reactionary elements in the Amhara region.
He additionally touched upon delays in the return of displaced persons as stipulated by the Pretoria peace agreement, prosecution of suspects involved in aid grain theft, and federal government initiatives aimed at averting further conflict with neighboring regions.
