Today, Explained The peacemaker’s civil war
Nov 19, 2020
In this discussion, Samuel Gebre, a Bloomberg News reporter specializing in the Ethiopian conflict, sheds light on the ongoing civil war that threatens stability in the Horn of Africa. He analyzes the roots of the Tigray conflict, revealing the complex historical power dynamics at play. The irony of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s Nobel Peace Prize is explored, as his peace initiatives contrast sharply with the violence plaguing the nation. Gebre also addresses the precarious political shifts and the implications for regional geopolitics.
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TPLF's Rule
- The TPLF, initially a rebel group, dominated Ethiopian politics for 27 years after ousting the communist government in 1991.
- Despite overseeing economic growth, they were accused of rigging elections and maintaining a tight grip on power.
Abiy's Rise
- Abiy Ahmed, the current prime minister, rose to power on a platform of reforms, surprising many who expected him to be another TPLF puppet.
- His actions, including merging the ruling coalition into a single national party, alienated the TPLF, turning them into the opposition.
Peacemaker Image
- Abiy Ahmed gained international recognition for brokering peace between Ethiopia and Eritrea, ending a two-decade conflict.
- This peacemaking image earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, further solidifying his global reputation as a mediator.