Fragile Peace with Unsecured Population

Dec 10 , 2022
By Abraham Tekle

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The year 2018 saw a new administration grasp that sat in the name of the expected reform. A transition was necessary as the dust appeared to have settled on Ethiopia's political crisis, preceded by widespread protests. The public unrest cost lives and damaged properties, both public and private.

After calming the restive youth, the ruling domain aimed to quell tensions and bring change with promises decorated under flowery words.

But the transition opened Pandora's Box, which was closed in most parts of the country. The death of civilians has become a repetitious encounter. It would by no means be an exaggeration to state the two-year civil war in Tigray and adjoining regional states of Amhara and Afar have claimed hundreds of lives.

Many citizens killed are not involved in the political squabbling among the leaders who stirred the war. They may not even be aware of the political tension going on. The lost lives are neglected and forgotten at some point after serving as a fleeting agenda. However, the news of death and suffering has become familiar.

The security situation in many parts of Wellega in Oromia Regional State is worsening. Suffering and destruction continued as the conflicts led many to be displaced from their homes in search of stability. What is transpiring on the ground cannot be justified. Video clips showing hideous acts are widespread, signifying the collapse of decency in society. The upheaval is going on, its severity unimaginable. Victims raise their desperate voices to find help as urgently as it can be provided.

The situation overruns the population there. After blood is spilt, the victims seek revenge for what happened to them, making it a vicious circle. Even though the situation requires an adequate response, identifying the causes requires an immediate reaction.

The death of civilians in and outside northern Ethiopia should also be highlighted here. In Tigray Regional State, hundreds of thousands lost their lives without participating in the active war. Famine claimed the lives of people up until recently. The recent peace deal between the warring sides signifies an improved regional situation considering aid provision.

The peace agreement that has been reached saves the people from great trouble, allowing them to access essential services. Humanitarian aid and medicine are gradually increasing. Vehicles bringing in food and medicine are growing over time, and international aid providers are springing into action.

Despite the efforts, there is still vicious violence committed against the people. Spoilers are looting and destroying civilian property to obstruct the agreement. Essential services have not been restored except for a few. Robust intervention is required to reverse the undesirable outcome in both parts of the country.

The federal government is responsible for protecting citizens' safety and well-being and should start providing the necessary assistance to the needy. The lives of civilians should be preserved by doing visible works beyond mere statements. A critical part of this lies in addressing the problem, particularly in areas where the conflict persists and supporting those needing immediate assistance.

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PUBLISHED ON Dec 10,2022 [ VOL 23 , NO 1180]

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