Ethiopia’s TPLF party denounced the Election Commission’s ban on its political activities.
The TPLF called the directive a “serious threat” to the ongoing peace process.
The party led Ethiopia for decades after overthrowing the Derg in 1991.Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sidelined the TPLF after taking power in 2018.
A brutal civil war between the TPLF and the federal government lasted from 2020 to 2022. The conflict resulted in an estimated 600,000 deaths.
In a letter to the African Union, the TPLF urged pressure on Ethiopia’s government. They want the AU to push for the suspension of the ban’s enforcement.
The TPLF stated the decision denies rights reclaimed through the Pretoria Agreement. They believe it poses a significant risk to the peace process’s foundation.
The Pretoria peace deal ended the war in November 2022. However, frustration persists in Tigray over unimplemented terms. This includes the return of roughly one million displaced people.
The TPLF, dominant for 30 years, was “formally deregistered” on Wednesday. This was due to their failure to hold a general assembly.
The decision follows months of political tension in Tigray. It also precedes national elections due by June 2026.
The TPLF was previously suspended for three months in February. They were warned of deregistration without “corrective action.”
The party retains the option to re-apply for registration for the 2026 polls.Internal TPLF conflicts led to earlier clashes and a leadership change.
Former regional leader Getachew Reda has since joined the federal government. Relations between Ethiopia and neighboring Eritrea have also worsened.