Ethiopian federal troops have taken control of Mekele, the capital of the Tigray region, with the help of the Tigray Peace Force militia. The city was seized on Saturday, a day after fighting broke out again on September 23. Residents are experiencing a mix of emotions, with some feeling relieved that the war may be winding down, while others fear that the conflict could escalate and spread to neighboring countries. Internet and phone services have been restored, bringing hope that banks and mobile payment services will also resume.
The restoration of internet and phone services has allowed residents to communicate freely, but with caution. Some residents have spoken to TPF fighters, but few have interacted with federal soldiers. The return of mobile payment services has also brought relief, but most stores remain closed, and business owners are taking precautions to protect their stocks. Looters took advantage of the situation on Saturday, targeting government offices and private residences before the arrival of federal forces.
The TPF's "Public and Military Relations Department" has taken control of a radio station, broadcasting a message calling on residents to remain calm and united. The address urges locals to refrain from seeking revenge against those who supported the TPLF or had past disagreements. This message aims to prevent further violence and promote stability in the region. Residents are also hoping that the banks will reopen on Monday, providing them with access to their funds.
Despite the presence of federal troops, the city remains anxious, with concerns about safety and security. Mekelle resident Abreha expressed worry about the lack of security personnel, which raises serious concerns about safety. He also noted that the ongoing conflict is dividing Tigray, with the region split between areas controlled by the TPLF and those under the pro-government TPF.
The conflict has a long and complex history, dating back to the 1990s when the TPLF led Ethiopia after toppling the Marxist-Leninist Derg government. However, tensions boiled over with the devastating civil war of 2020-2022, whose long shadow looms over the fresh outbreak of fighting. The Tigray region is still devastated from the 2020-22 war, and residents fear that the current conflict could spiral into a wider regional conflict.
The presidents of Egypt, Somalia, Sudan, and Eritrea – all countries with a complex history with Ethiopia – met on Sunday to discuss the risk of a wider war. This meeting has raised concerns among residents, who fear that the conflict could spread beyond Ethiopia's borders. Abreha expressed worry that the current fighting could turn into a wider regional conflict, drawing in neighboring countries.
As the situation in Mekele continues to unfold, residents are cautiously optimistic about the future. While some relief has come with the restoration of services, concerns about safety and security remain. The federal government's control of the city has brought a sense of stability, but the long-term implications of the conflict remain uncertain.
Key points
- Ethiopian federal troops have taken control of Mekele with the help of the Tigray Peace Force militia.
- Residents are experiencing a mix of emotions, with some feeling relieved that the war may be winding down, while others fear that the conflict could escalate.
- The conflict has a long and complex history, dating back to the 1990s when the TPLF led Ethiopia.
