Ethiopian Army Chief Praises Tigray Youth for Role in Peace Efforts

Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of the Ethiopian Armed Forces, has praised the youth of Tigray for their crucial role in achieving peace in the region. According to him, up to 800,000 Tigray youths refused to be conscripted into the Eritrean national service and instead moved to central Ethiopia. This mass migration played a significant role in bringing an end to the conflict. The youths relocated to cities such as Addis Ababa, Adama, Dire Dawa, Hawassa, Assosa, and Gambela.

Marshal Birhanu Jula made the remarks while expressing gratitude to the youth of Tigray for their actions. He also urged elders and parents to steer their children away from destructive political ideologies that prioritize violence and war. The Field Marshal noted that for the past 50 to 60 years, youths in Tigray, including doctors, engineers, and minors, were forced into war under the guise of "our organization" and "our children." He condemned this practice, emphasizing that it is essential to encourage good behavior and discourage bad behavior.

The Chief of the Ethiopian Armed Forces highlighted that the Tigray youth's decision not to participate in the conflict was instrumental in bringing about peace. He contrasted this with the experience of Eritrean youths who were forced into national service. The Marshal's comments come as a significant development in the region, where efforts to rebuild and restore peace are underway.

Field Marshal Birhanu Jula also emphasized that there is no room for mass militarization of children in politics. He stated that it is essential to promote a culture that encourages good behavior and discourages bad behavior. The Marshal's message resonated with the Ethiopian government's efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.

According to the Field Marshal, there are currently only a few remaining wanted former leaders hiding in the jungle, and they are not youths. This suggests that the youth of Tigray have largely disengaged from the conflict. The Ethiopian government has been working to consolidate peace in the region and rebuild infrastructure.

The conflict in Tigray has had a profound impact on the region, resulting in significant human suffering and displacement. The Ethiopian government, with the support of international partners, has been working to address the humanitarian crisis and promote peace. The role of the Tigray youth in achieving peace has been significant, and their actions have contributed to the stability of the region.

Field Marshal Birhanu Jula's comments have been welcomed by various stakeholders, who see the youth of Tigray as key players in promoting peace and stability in the region. The Ethiopian government has reiterated its commitment to promoting peace and encouraging youths to engage in constructive activities that promote national development.

Key points

• The youth of Tigray played a crucial role in achieving peace in the region by refusing to participate in the conflict and relocating to central Ethiopia.