JIGJOGA, Ethiopia (KAAB TV) – The African Union (AU) today convened the Second Strategic Reflection Meeting on the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA) between the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF).
The meeting, aimed at assessing progress, addressing challenges, and developing strategies for the COHA’s implementation, marked a significant step in the ongoing peace process.
The Chairperson of the AU Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, expressed his appreciation for the efforts made by both parties. “I commend the parties for the significant progress made since the signing of the COHA and express my gratitude to the Panel Members for their unwavering leadership,” Mahamat stated.
The meeting saw active participation from representatives of the FDRE and TPLF, as well as Observers from the United Nations, the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development, the United States of America, and the European Union.
Additionally, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, which provide the Team of African Experts, were present. Deliberations focused on political dialogue, with particular attention to the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) process.
The conflict, which lasted from November 3, 2020, to November 3, 2022, in the Tigray Region of Ethiopia, resulted in significant human suffering.
Humanitarian NGOs estimate that wartime violence, famine, and lack of medical access led to the deaths of between 162,000 and 378,000 people, with some reports suggesting the toll could be as high as 600,000.
Human rights groups have accused all parties involved in the conflict of committing war crimes and violations of international human rights law, including unlawful killings, torture, and sexual violence.
Mahamat acknowledged the progress made in the return of IDPs and the DDR process, noting, “The parties recognized advancements and agreed on a phased execution.” He also emphasized the importance of continued international support, stating, “The AU appreciates the sustained support from the Governments of Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa for the AU-led process and calls for additional support from bilateral and multilateral partners.”
The AU High-Level Panel will continue to support the Northern Ethiopia peace process.
The AU remains dedicated to facilitating dialogue and ensuring the successful implementation of the peace agreement.
“The AU remains committed to facilitating dialogue and supporting the peace process in Northern Ethiopia,” Mahamat affirmed, underscoring the AU’s ongoing role in fostering stability and reconciliation in the region.