Ethiopia: TPLF, OLA, and Fano unite against Abiy Ahmed, 2022 peace agreement weakened
Seven Ethiopian armed groups and opposition movements have announced an alliance aimed at challenging Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s authority. The coalition includes the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), and the Amhara Fano National Movement, forces that have fought against each other in recent years.
SUMMARY
Named the Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival, the new coalition accuses the federal government of consolidating power and marginalizing several regions. The Ethiopian government, in turn, has accused the alliance of receiving support from Eritrea, a claim that Eritrean authorities deny.
One of the most politically significant statements came from the TPLF. Its spokesperson, Michael Asgedom, stated that the peace agreement signed in 2022 to end the Tigray war is no longer valid and mentioned the possibility of joint political or even military actions.
This declaration follows a further deterioration of the security situation in the north of the country. Clashes and drone strikes have been reported in recent months, as the TPLF has regained control of several areas in Tigray.
Former enemies unite against Addis Ababa
The alliance is particularly noteworthy because it brings together movements with sometimes conflicting interests. The TPLF and certain Amhara factions notably clashed during the 2020-2022 war.
Their ability to maintain political or military coordination remains uncertain. The groups are still divided on several territorial and political issues, particularly regarding disputed areas between Tigray and Amhara.
For Abiy Ahmed, this coalition opens a new political front after several years marked by tensions in Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia.
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