Addis Ababa (AMECO)— Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has accused the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) of being trapped in an obsolete ideology and forming alliances with domestic insurgent groups and foreign adversaries because it can no longer withstand state security forces.
Speaking in recent media appearances, Dr Abiy stated that the outlawed organization is steadily weakening and fading from power, forced to abandon its long-held narrative that “no one can govern or fight better than us”. He argued that the TPLF’s rigid refusal to adapt to modern political norms—such as open dial ogue and peaceful competition—has exacted a heavy toll on the people of Tigray.
“While the world has advanced dramatically over the past 30 years through technology, innovation, and new thinking, the TPLF remains anchored to ideas from 50 years ago,” Abiy said, calling for a generational effort to break Ethiopia’s cycle of violence. “We must resolve our problems by halting hostilities and prioritising discussion.”
According to historical records, the TPLF was established in the late 1970s following student protests. In its bid to overthrow the Derg military regime, the group forged tactical alliances across the political spectrum—securing support from the Sudanese government, forming a military pact with Eritrean Shabia (EPLF) fighters, and coordinating with domestic anti-Derg opposition groups, including the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF), and the Coalition of Ethiopian Democratic Forces (UEDF).
However, after capturing power in Addis Ababa, the group systematically sidelined its former wartime partners. Its subsequent border war with Eritrean forces sealed Eritrea’s independence, leaving Ethiopia landlocked, while domestic allied parties were dismantled. The TPLF maintained an unchecked, authoritarian hold on the country until widespread public anger eventually drove it from the national seat of power at Arat Kilo back to its original stronghold in the Dedebit desert.
Despite changing political realities, critics argue the organization has failed to abandon its historical insurgent playbook. By attempting once again to align with external foes and internal armed groups, the TPLF continues to cling to guerrilla tactics rather than engaging in democratic reform.
