16 April 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Following recent violent clashes in Raya Alamata district, South Tigray Zone, thousands of civilians, estimated at 3,000-5,000, along with local administrators, have fled to Kobo town in the Amhara region. Many have sought shelter at Ewket Chora School, while some residents report returning home today.
Displacement and Return
Kobo residents say most displaced hail from Amharic-speaking communities in Raya Alamata. One resident offered shelter to five people who returned home after confirming a calmer situation.
Stalled Disarmament
A Kobo elder reports the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) directed armed militia groups to disarm, but negotiations stalled as each side wants the other to disarm first.
ENDF Control and IDP Movement
Residents in Alamata and Korem confirm ENDF control and the return of some local leaders. Additionally, previously displaced Tigrayans are starting to return.
Conflicting Narratives on Cause
Local officials and residents offer differing accounts. Raya Alamata administrator Mola Derbeu and Alamata mayor Hailu Abera told the BBC that “TPLF forces” started the conflict in Addis Berhan on Saturday evening, with gunfire lasting until Monday.
Southern Tigray Zone administrator Haftu Kiros contradicts this, stating IDPs from Raya marched near ENDF checkpoints seeking enforcement of the Pretoria Peace Agreement. He claims militants from Tao confronted Tigray militia, leading to gunfire.
Social Media Reactions
Tigray interim administration president Getachew Reda rejected claims of conflict between the federal government/Amhara region or Tigray/Amhara regions. He blames “enemies of the Pretoria agreement” for disrupting peace efforts.
The National Movement of Amhara (NaMA) accused the “TPLF” of invading Amhara for the fourth time and urged resistance alongside the ENDF. They claim the TPLF “cannot exist without war” and attempts to destabilize Ethiopia.
The situation in Raya Alamata remains tense, with the cause of the clashes disputed and the peace process seemingly fragile.
