Security Situation Worsens in Tigray Amid Actions of Former TPLF Elements, Ex-Mekelle Mayor Says
Addis Ababa, June 20, 2026 (FMC) – Security risks facing civilians in Tigray are increasing due to what the former mayor of Mekelle under the Interim Regional Administration described as escalating instability linked to former TPLF elements.
In an interview with Fana Podcast, Ataklti Haile-Selassie, former mayor of Mekelle, said the situation is undermining the full implementation of the Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) process under the Pretoria Peace Agreement signed on 2 November 2022.
He stated that the disarmament process has been obstructed, adding that armed elements have continued operating in a way that limits the reintegration of former combatants into civilian life.
According to him, these developments are reversing progress achieved under the peace agreement and replacing hopes for stability with renewed insecurity in parts of the region.
Ataklti further stated that public facilities, including schools and health centers, have in some cases been affected by the prevailing instability, contributing to worsening humanitarian and civilian conditions.
He also said that former TPLF elements are contributing to fear among residents by failing to fully implement the peace agreement, which he described as essential for accountability and lasting stability.
The former mayor noted that the region, already weakened by years of conflict, is now facing additional humanitarian pressure that is deepening public hardship.
He further stated that humanitarian assistance delivered by the federal government and international partners is, in some cases, not reaching intended civilian beneficiaries, adding that this is worsening conditions for affected communities.
Ataklti called on relevant stakeholders to urgently address the situation and ensure full implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement in order to stabilize the region and restore public confidence.
It is to be recalled that tthe United States has recently introduced targeted visa restrictions on individuals it described as TPLF hardliners and their immediate family members, citing the defunct group’s actions that could contribute to instability and undermine the implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
The U.S. State Department said the measure is intended to support accountability and discourage activities that risk reigniting conflict in the region.
In parallel, reports and diplomatic assessments have indicated continued political and security mobilization linked to former TPLF elements, despite ongoing calls by the federal government for peaceful engagement and full implementation of the peace agreement.
Authorities in Addis Ababa have repeatedly emphasized dialogue and institutional processes as the only sustainable path forward, while warning against actions that could reverse gains made since the 2022 cessation of hostilities.