NEBE and TPLF Developments

The recent statement by the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) regarding the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) highlights ongoing administrative and political challenges within Ethiopia. NEBE has reiterated its directive for the TPLF to convene a general assembly, a requirement mandated by law following the TPLF’s registration under special circumstances.

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NEBE's Directive and Legal Context

NEBE emphasized that the TPLF is obligated to hold a general assembly within six months of its registration, as outlined by Proclamation No. 1332/2023. This law was introduced to amend the Electoral Code of Conduct, ensuring that all political entities adhere to transparent and democratic processes.

The TPLF's registration date under special circumstances is recorded as August 3, 2023. Consequently, the party must fulfill its legal obligation by February 3, 2024. The board stated that as of December 17, 2023, there was no evidence of the TPLF taking the necessary steps to prepare for the general assembly.

According to NEBE's statement, the general assembly must also include observers appointed by the board. Additionally, the TPLF is required to notify NEBE of the planned date at least 21 days in advance to allow for adequate preparation and oversight.

Leadership Disputes within the TPLF

The TPLF is currently navigating internal leadership conflicts that have significantly impacted its organizational cohesion. A disagreement persists between Debretsion Gebremichael, the party's chairman, and Getachew Reda, the Interim Regional Administration President of Tigray.

In August 2023, the TPLF convened its 14th Congress, during which significant leadership changes were made. Seventeen senior members, including Getachew Reda, were removed from the Central Committee. This has deepened internal divisions, with accusations of illegitimacy and non-compliance with party directives exchanged between factions.

Broader Implications for Regional Stability

These developments come at a critical time for Tigray, a region working to recover from the effects of prolonged conflict. The TPLF's internal discord poses challenges to governance, delaying critical post-conflict reconstruction and reconciliation efforts. Furthermore, the leadership struggles risk undermining the Pretoria Agreement, an accord designed to bring lasting peace to northern Ethiopia.

NEBE has warned that failure to comply with its directive could lead to legal consequences for the TPLF. This warning underscores the broader national implications of the TPLF’s internal challenges, particularly in maintaining the fragile stability achieved in recent months.