11/22/2024
To: All Tigray Communities, Media outlets, and Forums around the Globe:
Tigrai Press Editorial
November 21, 2024
Subject: DDR of Tigray Defense Forces
Today, Tigrayans across the globe were devastated to learn of the commencement of the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) process for the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF). This distressing development occurs despite unresolved crises that continue to threaten the sovereignty, survival, and dignity of Tigray and its people.
Currently, over 47% of Tigray’s territory—including the northeastern, northwestern, southern, and western regions—remains under occupation by Amhara and Eritrean expansionist forces. This ongoing occupation not only violates Tigray’s territorial integrity but also denies millions of displaced Tigrayans their fundamental right to return to their ancestral lands. These internally displaced persons (IDPs) remain stranded in overcrowded and deteriorating camps, where they are deprived of essential resources such as food, shelter, and medical care.
Moreover, the quest for justice remains unmet for victims of widespread atrocities. Over 125,000 women and girls have suffered egregious sexual violence, yet their cries for accountability and reparations have been ignored. The countless civilian massacres, acts of ethnic cleansing, and other war crimes committed against the Tigrayan people remain unaddressed. Thousands of Tigrayans who served in the Ethiopian National Defense Forces are still unjustly imprisoned across Ethiopia, enduring inhumane conditions and denied due process.
Under these dire circumstances, the implementation of DDR is not only premature but also a grave betrayal of the Pretoria Agreement signed two years ago. This agreement prioritized peace, justice, and security for Tigray. Disarming the TDF—the very force that protected Tigray during its darkest moments—not only disregards the sacrifices made by these brave combatants but also undermines the aspirations and safety of the Tigrayan people.
We believe Tegaru worldwide must unite in rejecting this decision. It is not merely an attack on the TDF but a direct affront to the collective dignity, safety, and future of the Tigrayan people. DDR cannot and must not proceed until the following critical issues are resolved:
Restoration of Tigray’s Sovereignty: All occupied territories must be vacated, and Tigray’s territorial integrity must be fully restored.
Justice for Victims: Comprehensive investigations and prosecutions must be carried out for all war crimes, including sexual violence, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity. Victims deserve justice and reparations.
Resolution for IDPs: Millions of displaced Tigrayans must be resettled in their rightful homes with access to the resources necessary for rebuilding their lives.
Release of Imprisoned Tigrayans: Thousands of Tigrayans unjustly detained across Ethiopia must be released immediately and unconditionally.
Security Guarantees: Concrete measures must be implemented to protect Tigrayan civilians from future aggression and ensure their safety and security.
We call on all Tegaru and allies around the world to stand in solidarity against this unjust decision. We must organize protests, raise global awareness, and advocate for the rights and safety of the Tigrayan people. DDR, under the current conditions, not only jeopardizes the survival of Tigray but also undermines the universal principles of justice and human rights.
As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. so powerfully reminded us, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." The plight of Tigray reflects a broader fight for human dignity, equality, and justice.
Let us remain steadfast in our struggle, demanding accountability, security, and freedom for Tigray. Together, we will ensure that justice prevails and that the sacrifices of our people are honored.
Thank you.
