TPLF has signaled its intent to assert direct control over Southern Tigray’s administration, raising concerns over renewed intra-regional tensions. In an interview with Woyen Media, TPLF chairman Debretsion Gebremichael announced plans to replace the current leadership in Southern Tigray, similar to administrative changes made in Mekelle, North Western, and Central zones. The move has sparked fears of further political consolidation by the party, which has already dissolved several local administrations and replaced them with party-aligned officials.
The Tigray Interim Administration (TIA), heavily influenced by TPLF, has also taken a strong stance on territorial control. The newly elected Lt. General Tadesse Werede, a longtime member of TPLF, has faced criticism from opposition parties such as SAWET, Arena, the Tigray Independence Party (TIP), and Baytona for what they describe as a “lack of inclusivity” within the interim administration. Former TIA president Getachew Reda has also accused Tadesse of sidelining diverse political voices in favor of TPLF loyalists.
During a meeting with Germany’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Amb. Jens Hanefeld, Lt. Gen. Tadesse stated that approximately 40% of Tigray remains under the control of “invading forces” and urged the federal government to ensure their withdrawal. He emphasized that the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the restoration of Tigray’s constitutional administrative authority remain his administration’s top priorities. One of the areas of concern is Tselemti, where IDPs who returned in July 2024 have once again been forced to flee due to ongoing security threats. The President called on the federal government to fully withdraw non-ENDF forces that continue to pose security risks in Tigray.
Additionally, the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program has resumed after previous technical and political setbacks. Lt. Gen. Tadesse stated that the first phase of the program targets 75,000 combatants, with completion expected by September. The second phase will proceed alongside efforts to secure Tigray’s constitutional status and ensure the full return of displaced people to their homes.
Both the TIA and TPLF appear to be aligning their efforts to reclaim Welkayit and other contested areas from what they describe as “invading forces.” The TIA’s call for the withdrawal of non-ENDF forces and the TPLF’s move to dissolve the Southern Tigray administration suggest a coordinated effort to restore full control over the region. With security concerns persisting and political maneuvers underway, the fate of Welkayit remains uncertain. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Tigray’s leadership can successfully reassert control and ensure stability in the region.
