Pretoria Agreement Remains Unresolved, Says Tigray Chief Administrator
Ethiomonitor -Addis Ababa
September 24, 2025
President of the Tigray Interim Administration, Lieutenant General Tadesse Worede, said his administration is working to cement peace and prevent a return to war, despite ongoing uncertainty regarding the Pretoria Agreement. Addressing fears from the federal government that Tigray is preparing for war, President Tadesse stressed that his administration is doing its best to prevent any conflict.
“There will be no war initiated by the Tigray side,” he assured during a meeting with Abibatou Wone, Chief of Mission at IOM Ethiopia. Just last week, President Tadesse warned of a “visible cloud of war” amid mounting tensions, appealing to the federal government to honor key provisions of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, describing the political and security situation as fragile.
“As we all know, the situation now is intricate. There is a visible cloud of war. Situations can change radically. But there is still a chance for peace,” he told senior leaders and TPLF cadres.
During a meeting with Abibatou Wone, he said the interim administration has demonstrated its commitment to peace by strengthening relations with the federal government, international organizations, and diplomats based in Ethiopia. Advancing peace requires addressing unresolved issues, particularly the return of displaced people, humanitarian assistance, and political matters, he added.
On humanitarian needs, President Tadesse explained that efforts focus on ensuring the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs), facilitating their access to assistance, and supporting their reintegration. On political matters, he emphasized that “occupying forces and armed groups in the sovereign territory of Tigray should be removed through peaceful and political dialogue,” adding that displaced people should return in a manner that is transparent and free from political exploitation.
IOM’s Abibatou Wone said her office is working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the safe and voluntary return of displaced people and refugees to their homes, alongside the establishment of resettlement programs.
