A Breakdown of today’s FDRE Government Communication Service Statement (04.11.2021)

Today, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Government Communication Service published a statement with the headline: “Terrorist TPLF And Its Puppets Being Encircled By Joint Forces”. You cannot make these things up, but that is where we are on the 4th November 2021. They are publishing this sort of text on the anniversary of the attacks on the Northern Command. It just shows what sort of horrific enterprise the war has become to the Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF).

Early in the statement it says this: “Ethiopians from all corners of the country are heading to the war front. Ethiopians who love their country are joining the struggle in droves with a winning mentality, heroism and determination. The desert lions – young Afar warriors and special forces– in coordination with the National Defence Forces have been meting out heavy punishment on the enemy that has tried to invade their region. The people are united behind and supporting the efforts of the National Defence Forces to defeat the enemy in all fronts” (FDRE Government Communication Service, 04.11.2021).

We know the Federal Government have called to arms and promised to bury the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This has been the “war-cry” of the Prime Minister and everyone else. All the loyalists and Amhara high-ranking officials have said everyone should participate in the war-effort. The youth are supposed to register and enlist into war. The state have started to register all weapons and said all able bodies should go to the front.

As it continues: “TPLF and its puppets are being encircled by our forces. As the saying goes; “a rat that strays far from its hole is nearer to its death”. The state of emergency declaration have galvanized the people and all state organs to make sure that will be the fate of TPLF. The false propaganda, the Ethiopian government has used famine as an instrument of war, that the TPLF has been using to deceive the international community has been proven false by an independent and international investigation” (FDRE Government Communication Service, 04.11.2021).

Well, the FDRE and the ENDF have to sound mighty. They have to act like it is in control and have the full advantage. However, if everything was under control. The FDRE wouldn’t have issued a National State of Emergency and asked for all eligible to join the front. It would have reassured the citizens and let them do their daily duties. Alas, that is not the case and the situation is much more grim. Because, no sane person will issue “martial law” and call it a holy-day. Neither will it issue a martial law and act like you have all control. If the state had everything under control it wouldn’t need those measures and stipulations in the first place. That is just a mere fact that the stare and it’s team is forgetting here.

Secondly, if they are in hole and such. Why aren’t the ENDF and all of its all powerful allies able to block it? Why are they able to advance and cause more damage to the troops? It calls things false propaganda when the report is flawed at best and lacks proper investigations into the matter. As the JIT was blocked from access and the EHRC wasn’t helping it either. The FDRE wasn’t transparent and neither was all the actors on the front-line. Therefore, to say it’s all propaganda is a lie, but coming from the FDRE must be a token of respect. Since the PM is a well known liar and a deceiver. This is why it isn’t shocking that they deem others as “fake news”.

It continues: “But those that were busy working hand in hand with the enemy in propagating its false narrative are doubling down their efforts in spreading rumours and lies in their effort to save the enemy from the popular wave that is speeding up its demise. Their goal is to spread misinformation and fear in order to erode the trust between the people and the leadership. Organizations like Facebook that has been used to spread violence now has shown its true colours by deleting our Prime Minister’s message” (FDRE Government Communication Services, 04.11.2021).

What is striking here is the sentiment. We know the FDRE and its bodies have blocked, silenced and had a war against all information leaking about this war. The state have tarnished and suspended several of international media outlets. Before the State of Emergency, the state even issued orders of blocking all international media content on broadcasting companies within the Republic. Therefore, we know the Ethiopian authorities doesn’t appropriate or have the patience with foreign coverage of the conflict. They want their own narrative and nothing else. This why everything that doesn’t fit the narrative composed by the PM or his handlers is “lies and propaganda”. While what his ministries and entities are producing is propaganda, as it is unsubstantiated claims and without evidence, but with a clear bias to uphold one party interest. Therefore, they cannot accept Facebook’s own action to take down the PM’s message, as they deemed it inciting violence and breach of “terms of service”. That is the sort of thing the FDRE does and they act like victim, which it isn’t and anyone else would get the same treatment by the social media company.

The statement continues:Their supporters in the NGO community are campaigning to have their schools closed by fabricating a non-existing security risk. They spread unfounded rumours that leaders in the government are applying for visas. Breaking all diplomatic norm, they are agitating for their diplomats to be called home under the false claim that Addis Ababa is surrounded.= by the enemy. All this is coordinated with the aim of creating suspicion and doubt with in the public and the defence forces” (FDRE Government Communication Services, 04.11.2021).

The FDRE should understand the NGOs, the diplomatic corps and their messages to their citizens inside the Republic. This will undermine and show the lack of control, which the FDRE will not take accountability for, as this means it would state it’s losses and lack of territorial integrity. We can understand that a arrogant and blatant war-lord of Abiy’s calibre wouldn’t state this. That means he would be humble and show humility. No, that’s not his kind and his FDRE cannot be honest about the growing issues and security risks. Since, the ENDF and it’s allies has lost territories and lost on the front-lines. If the ENDF was as strong as it was when the war stated last year. Than the state wouldn’t issue a State of Emergency. This just proves the diplomatic corps are right to leave or flee, send warnings and it’s done to secure the citizens of the envoys in the Republic. That should the FDRE understand, but it is butt-hurt by the security warnings instead.

The Government Communication Services continues: “The government wants to warn these parties that are busy with activities that are aimed at destroying the nation, to cease and desist from their destructive behaviour. This cannot be taken lightly since it is an existential national security threat. The government will not hesitate to take appropriate action on those who refuse to refrain from these actions immediately. Our people, realizing that we are in the final chapter of saving Ethiopia, should continue their heroic struggle. Our unity is the only guarantee for our survival. Therefore, we should ignore these falsehoods and evil narratives of our enemies and continue to work together for the salvation of our beloved country” (FDRE Government Communication Services, 04.11.2021).

What is funny is that this comes after the same Republic says the diplomatic corps are sending out bad warnings and creating suspicion about the ENDF. While the same FDRE is saying this is now an existential national security threat, but the others shouldn’t create any suspicion. The FDRE cannot have it both ways and this is their survival campaign, which is a national security threat. That’s why the international community and diplomatic missions are trying to send their people into safety. The FDRE is even selling the same message, but isn’t saying it directly.

It ends with: “The government asks all Ethiopians, friends of Ethiopia and media in friendly countries to report accurate information at the appropriate time to our people. We all need to stand together and write an eternal golden history to silence our enemies that are drunk with temporary victories. Standing together, we will repel the designs of our historical enemies. For us, Ethiopians, dying for our sovereignty, unity and identity, is an honour. There is no Ethiopianness without sacrifice” ((FDRE Government Communication Services, 04.11.2021).

The FDRE wants their narrative and nothing else. We are supposed to feed of their hands and take it all as truth. Like we are some naive fools and idiots who cannot read through the lines. That is the sort of followers and cult the Prime Minister has made for himself. This is why he wants the same for everyone else.

We are supposed to believe that this is a small victory after the ‘final’ offensive in October. It clear that ENDF isn’t that great when everyone is asked to enlist and join the front. That is not the message of greatness. Time will tell and this was a real propaganda piece. Peace.

Ethiopia: A look into the joint EHRC-OCHHR report on human rights violations in the Tigray region

“Beginning of November 2020, UNHCR has recorded an influx of asylum seekers at border entry points in East Sudan from Ethiopia, after military confrontations in the Tigray region in Northern Ethiopia” (UNHCR, 30.11.2020)

While restrictions such as roadblocks and check points by ENDF and EDF may have been justified by the conflict the impact on the movement of essential goods such as food and medicine raises serious questions on the necessity and proportionality of the measures” (JIT, P: 62, 2021).

Today, the “Report of the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC)/Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) Joint Investigation into Alleged Violations of International Human Rights, Humanitarian and Refugee Law Committed by all Parties to the Conflict in the Tigray Region of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia” was launched and because of that. I needs to address it and drop the vital parts of the findings and also question itself. Since, the EHRC has been a partisan government body who works directly for the leadership in Addis Ababa and for their benefit. The EHRC clearly can stir the issue or change the goal-post. Therefore, I don’t expect to much or ability to investigate for that matter. Since, the Prosperity Party and Prime Minister Abiy wouldn’t want the truth out, but have a report validating their narratives.

First part that makes me question the whole report and it’s findings is the constrains and the lack of access to the Joint Investigation Team. As they were not allowed, had access or accessibility to Tigray or even parts of Amhara region. The communication was blocked and even some of their satellite phones was confiscated by the authorities. Therefore, there was a lack of willing to serve the truth or make it possible to do the work properly. This is a damning assessment, as the JIT should have free reign and ability to operate to find the truth and report about it too. You know it is bad when the JIT cannot even get security clearances to travel and lack of vehicles for field visits. This is described on the page 10-11 of the report.

Lack of written responses from parties to the conflict, to the JIT’s list of issues and questions also presented a challenge. As at the date of this report, the JIT had not received a response from the TPLF, the State of Eritrea, and the Amhara Regional Administration” (JIT, P:11, 2021).

This here doesn’t help the case either. It is a proof that the Eritrean government still doesn’t cooperate with any United Nations body of any kind. That is not surprising, but that Amhara and TPLF isn’t says a lot too. While I think the latter wouldn’t because it doesn’t trust the EHRC and I cannot blame them for that. Not like the EHRC have been an independent body and an honest operator in the PP era.

On page 28 it concludes with: “Based on the information collected by the JIT, there are reasonable grounds to believe that all parties to the conflict – including the ENDF, EDF, and TSF – have undertaken either direct attacks on civilians affecting men, women, boys and girls – and civilian objects enjoying special protection under international humanitarian law, including houses, hospitals, health centres, schools, places of worship, and/or conducted indiscriminate attacks striking them” (JIT, P: 28, 2021).

This will be typical for this report, as it will state all parties, but that is fitting for the EHRC to say. As it doesn’t only incriminate the FDRE (Ethiopia) and SoE (Eritrea), but the regional state parties of Tigray as well.

On page 32 it concludes with: “The JIT concludes that unlawful killings and extra-judicial executions were perpetrated by the ENDF, EDF, TSF and affiliated militia, Fano (group affiliated to the Amhara militia), and the Samri (local Tigrayan youth group) and amounted to violations and abuses of international human rights law, serious violations of international humanitarian law, and breach of the Constitution and laws of Ethiopia” (JIT, P: 32, 2021).

Here they are saying everyone did it and it just shows the whole picture to vindicate for what the Tripartite Alliance did. They were the mighty force and the ones with two governments backing it. These armies should be put into question, as they invaded Tigray and such. Not like I believe any party or any militia in a war will not do crimes. Still, the report is incriminating everyone in the same manner and not questioning the levels and even showing the vast difference between the parties either.

There are reasonable grounds to believe that torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment has been committed by all parties to the conflict, including the ENDF, EDF, Tigray forces and militias allied with the TPLF. The Tigray police have also been implicated. These acts have been committed against civilians and captured combatants in various locations across Tigray, including in military camps, detention facilities, victims’ homes, as well as secret, and unidentified locations” (JIT, P: 35-36, 2021).

Here we go again… and its the same story. This makes the report hard to believe and feel inconclusive. As it is so narrow and lacking conclusions of which shows the bigger picture. It is not strange the JIT didn’t get that. As they were either blocked, not getting access or getting answers from parts of the parties involved in the conflict.

Information gathered and assessed as credible by the JIT affords reasonable grounds to believe that the parties to the conflict, ENDF, Tigray forces and allied groups, the Amhara militia, and the EDF have engaged in detentions, many arbitrary in character, abductions and enforced disappearances, in violation of international human rights law and international humanitarian law” (JIT, P: 40, 2021).

Is it strange, if people question this report? When these are the conclusions for everything. It is just made and in a language that make it seems that all parties are alike. That all parties have done the same and to similar extent. This is why the report is lacking and proving the concern of how far the investigation went and how it have been stifled in the process. Also, since it worked with EHRC we can expect it make it worse for the Tigray Defence Force and the Regional State Government of Tigray. Well, they are the terrorist and they needs to vilified here too.

There are reasonable grounds to believe that all parties to the conflict – the ENDF, EDF, and TSF – have committed sexual and gender-based violence and that, in many cases, rape and other forms of sexual violence have been used to degrade and dehumanize the victims” (JIT, P: 48, 2021).

If you see a pattern, please do the call and ask for a better and a fair investigation. Because this is a farce and a white-wash of the conflict. The FDRE and SoE is getting of easy. While they can pin the Tigrayan forces easily with this. As it has vilified it too.

The JIT concludes that the State has not taken all possible measures to provide internally displaced persons with satisfactory conditions of shelter, hygiene, healthcare, safety and nutrition, in line with its obligations under international human rights and international humanitarian law. Mass arrest of IDPs without due process also violates human rights law and instills fear in IDPs in other parts of Tigray. The lack of recognition by local authorities in Dansha as to the existence of an IDP site is extremely concerning and formally excludes IDPs in Dansha from services that they may have otherwise benefited from. In several camps, particularly in Gondar, Dabat, and Dansha, IDPs had not received food rations – 15 kg of wheat earmarked by the government – for up to 4 months, nor did they receive support from other actors. The JIT also notes the effects of lack of basic necessities, particularly for hygiene, sanitation and medical services, on the health of women and persons in need of support with their mental health” (JIT, P: 58, 2021).

Here we are seeing what the state does and shows what the blockade does. This is only for the IDPs, but just imagine if the FDRE does this to them. What is it willing to do the ones living within Tigray region? Just imagine right? This says it all and we are supposed to take the ENDF, Amhara RSF, Fano and EDF didn’t do massive crimes against humanity. While the texts of the Report make it seems like everyone did it to a similar level. Therefore, when the state is doing this to IDPs? What would it be willing to everyone else? Just think about that…

Individuals were unable to seek, receive and impart information using the internet and other communication technologies because phones and internet communications were cut off in Tigray. General shutdowns of internet and telecommunications violate multiple rights, including the rights to freedom of expression and access to information, if it can be established that they were killed due to their work, and hinder others, including the right to free assembly. The disconnection may have been justified until the expiry of the state of emergency” (JIT, P: 65-66, 2021).

Here there is more information of the besieged and the blockade of the Tigray region, which has been reported about for months. This has been established and is well-known truths of this conflict. That has been done to hurt and damage the region as much as possible. Make the crimes happening in darkness. This is the reality of it all and this report just proves it. As the EHRC have made this report such a finesse…

The conflict in Tigray has been characterized by large scale destruction and appropriation of property perpetrated by different actors, including armed forces, militias and civilians. There have been cases of widespread pillaging and looting of public and private property, including household items and money. Additionally, there was looting and destruction of objects indispensable to the survival of the civilian population, including crops, foodstuffs, and livestock” (JIT, P: 69, 2021).

Here there is stating the destruction of the region of Tigray. While not concluding who is behind it. Just stating what was done and that’s just convenient, right?

The JIT found that there were access restrictions, including multiple checkpoints by EDF and ENDF, which impeded or delayed delivery humanitarian assistance to parts of Tigray and Amhara region. Tigray forces were implicated in setting up road blockades that resulted in delay of humanitarian relief. While the JIT could not confirm deliberate or willful denial of humanitarian assistance to the civilian population in Tigray or the use of starvation as a weapon of war, it recognizes the need for further investigation on alleged violations related to denial of access to humanitarian relief and killings of humanitarian workers” (JIT, P: 73, 2021).

Here we go again… the report is making it believe that the Tigray Defence Force (TDF) would starve their own people and the ones they are defending. That is really a statement to put forward. We know there is report of the FDRE blocking access and stopping humanitarian assistance from reaching the Tigray region. Secondly, the FDRE has stopped fuel from coming in, as the FDRE thinks this fuel will be used to war-effort of the TDF. That says it all and this has ensured the state starve the region and create a man-made famine. We know the FDRE and SoE have participated in the stoppage of humanitarian assistance and creating the blockade… So who is the JIT kidding here?

The JIT has documented looting and destruction of health facilities in all parts of Tigray by parties to the conflict, which had a direct impact on the right to healthcare of the civilian population. The JIT has found inadequate provision of food and water to the civilian population. The conflict had a direct impact on the provision of telecommunications, electricity, and banking services, due to damages caused to the infrastructure necessary to provide these services” (JIT, P: 78, 2021).

Here it is just saying the same things again and reckoning it too. In other words than before, but like always… it is saying “parties” destroyed health facilities, but not who in general who participated in the destruction of it.

However, in the annex there was some juicy quotes from the FDRE retorts to the draft report and these shows the heart of the Ethiopian government at this current time. These are the gems of this one and I will leave them in the end. Because they says so much about the lack of heart or how they are dealing with things, as they have moral decency or care for anything else than their cause.

Second, the GoE wishes to underscore the fact that the ENDF consistently follows

standard procedures in terms of the protection of the civilian population and civilian objects in

all its operations; in conflict settings attended by heavy ammunition, this mainly involves the

adoption of precautionary measures such as cautious assessment of military targets and their

proximity to civilian areas, the issuance of advance warnings to civilians to stay at home or leave

affected areas temporarily, and the conduct of operations at times that are believed to be optimal

to avoid or minimize collateral damage. It should also be noted that throughout the conflict

TSF’s use of civilians as human shields, and TSF’s storage and operation of armaments inside

places of worship has posed a great challenge to the ENDF” (JIT – Annex V, P: 5, 2021).

However, the GoE assumes full responsibility for the protection of human rights across

the entirety of its territory; in this light and given the extent of casualties, in this case, the GoE

commits to take up the finding of the JIT and comprehensively investigate the incident, the

circumstances of their occurrence, and the degrees of involvement of the EDF and the TSF in the

context of the fighting in Humera” (JIT- Annex V, P: 6, 2021).

Violations of human rights including extrajudicial killings and executions are a matter of utmost concern for the Government of Ethiopia. The Government of Ethiopia has noted the JIT Report’s allegations of the commission of unlawful or extrajudicial killings and executions in different parts of Tigray by ENDF and other parties to the conflict. The GoE regrets that there had indeed been instances where a small number of rogue members of the ENDF committed unlawful extrajudicial killings and executions contrary to the clear rules of engagement and direction given to them during the operation in Tigray” (JIT – Annex V, P: 9, 2021).

The GoE believes that most of these detentions by the ENDF, motivated by imperative security considerations, do not amount to arbitrary detention. However, given the total collapse of the ordinary law enforcement apparatus in Tigray, including the police, courts and prosecutorial authorities, as a result of the conflict, the Government of Ethiopia is cognizant of the possibility for incidents that might amount to arbitrary detention to have occurred. The Government is fully committed to take the necessary remedial measures to minimize the occurrence of such incidents in the future” (JIT – Annex V, P: 10, 2021).

These are just a few of the gems there, but the Annex V is the most interesting, because it shows again how the FDRE is busy trading it’s own origin story of how the “Operation Law Enforcement” was started, but keeping key elements away and also withholding the planned efforts, which encircle the Tigray region. Where the state had mechanical divisions ready, artillery, brigades surrounding it and even flown military personnel to Eritrea to attack from all sides of the region. That couldn’t happen without meticulous planning and will. The attack on the Northern Command happened, as the Tigray Defence Force knew something was up and the Tripartite Alliance attacked the region a year ago.

This report is very flawed, lacking and without shadow of a doubt a shoddy report made to undermine, duress and make the FDRE/SoE look better. That is the clear intent and it’s evident. Not shocking when the EHRC is involved and it’s proven, yet again. They are Human Rights Mercenaries for the Government and not “independent”. That is verified yet again and sad that an UN organization was taken for a ride too. Peace.

Ethiopia: Tigray External Affairs Office – Response to the press Statement by US State Department on Combat Operations in Northern Ethiopia (03.11.2021)

Ethiopia: Tigray External Affairs Office – Press statement on UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Report on human rights abuses in Tigray (03.11.2021)

Ethiopia: Office of the Prime Minister – A statement with respect to the Joint Investigation Team Report of the EHRC and UNHCR (03.11.2021)

Ethiopia: Oh, the Mighty have Fallen

Addis Ababa, November 2, 2021 (FBC) – The Council of Ministers has declared nationwide state of emergency effective Tuesday November 2, 2021. The council discussed current latest developments in the county. Justice Minister, Gedewon Temotiwos jointly with the Government Communications Service Minister, Legese Tulu is currently briefing the media on latest developments. The State of Emergency is aimed to protect civilians from atrocities being committed by the terrorist TPLF Group in several parts of the country. The House of Peoples Representatives is expected to approve the State of Emergency with in 24 hours” (Fana Broadcasting Company – ‘Council of Ministers declares nationwide state of emergency’ 02.11.2021).

Just the messages from all the high ranking officials, all government bodies and everyone involved in the government apparatus seems to be stationed in the “survival campaign”. The Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) ‘finale’ offensive this late October and early November have been fatal. The Tripartite Alliance has failed and the Federal Government is in paranoia mode.

Long are the days of hope, dreaming of greatness and greener pastures. Those days are long. The war-pact between Asmara-Addis Ababa – Bahir Dar has been clear. This alliance forged in hatred and revenge has caused all of this bloodshed. Instead of seeing the prospects and the possible betterment for the next generation. These leaders has caused harm that will last for decades and maybe even more. As people have perished, starved, killed, massacred and blatantly been violated.

This war that was ordered last November will forever be a stain. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali had everything at his fingertips. He was the man of the hour and with a brilliant future ahead of him. However, he decided together with Eritrean President Isaias Afewerki to squander that away in a senseless war. Rather then mend the bridges and find a common ground. He rather destroy his enemies and silence them. However, he and his allies underestimated them. That’s why we are at this cross-roads now. He could prepare the armies surrounding the Tigray region in the year of 2020. Abiy could fix the Amhara Para-Military Group “Fano” to be a stand-by force and go with his troops. Send the mechanical brigades to the borders. Fly in troops across the border into Eritrea to attack from several of fronts. Just to bushwhack and take control quickly of the Tigray region. Which he did and promised the end of the war in late November 2020. Nevertheless, the whole war backfired and his now on the losing end of the stick.

Abiy is now asking the youth and the ones who can to register their weapons. Be mentally prepared and defend his war. While they are meeting trained soldiers and guerrilla fighters from two well trained armies. The Tigray Defence Force and Oromo Liberation Army. These two in combination of the other united armies will be hard to defeat. As they are all a collective of armies willing and fighting to end the reign of Abiy.

Abiy has in no time been able to usher in the “medemer” terror. Some have called the Derg 2.0, which is a really dark age come to life. Where he arrested, detained, tortured and killed dissidents. The PM has gone after and silenced his enemies, one by one and hope to trick the world of his reforms. This the work of Abiy and he haven’t even tried to conceal it either. The state has targeted the leadership of Oromia and later gone to genocidal war against the Tigray. There has been left nothing to chance and the bloodshed is evident. The imminent reckoning is awaiting him.

What is tragic and sincerely foolish is how he squandered a moment and a momentum for change. Abiy could have transformed and made something out of himself. He could easily become a generational leader. This man had it in him and he knew how to portray himself. Alas, his ego and fragile character couldn’t handle opposition. That’s why he had to go to the trenches to settle his grudges. Instead of settling the possible mischief and misunderstanding by negotiating with the other parties. That is something he never the courage or character too. He only tricked his opponents before taking down, one by one.

Abiy will be known for lies and deception. The PM will not go down in history as a great leader. No, he will go down as a tyrant and dictator. The man who spoke of peace, but delivered war. A war-lord and a bloodthirsty at that. There is no other way around it.

Abiy started his reign by promising the end of “state of emergency”. Where he would release the political prisoners of the Oromo leadership and end the violence in the region. Alas, he has now ensured the whole Federal Republic is under a “state of emergency”. The same leadership is behind bars and a bloody violent conflict is haunting him. Instead of reforming and causing peace. The man has caused more conflict and harm. That is his legacy and that is terror.

Prime Minister Abiy has destroyed every path ahead and his enemies does not want to meet around the table. As Abiy have tricked and lied to leaders before. Later he has arrested and charged them with terrorism or treason. Therefore, keeping them detained for months and years on end without any evidence produced in that matter. Because of their “supposed” grave crimes.

This is just a tragedy and so many lives is at stake. Abiy has to answer for this and his decisions is responsible for this. His orders and decrees have ensured more people will die. The blockade of Tigray region and the genocidal means will never be forgotten. That was his choice and will tarnish legacy. Just like the war itself and the war-pact he made with Afewerki. Because, it doesn’t seem like these two talked peace, but planned for a war.

That is why Abiy have assassinated the ones who stood in his way in Amhara region and he also tried to send commandos to silence the leaders of Tigray. Therefore, he will be known for all of this. All of the deaths, the murders and the misuse of power. Will all haunt him and you can wonder where he will end up. If he doesn’t flee the Republic. You can wonder where he can stay in exile and become a pariah leader who will be remember for his blood-thirst.

This is not the story Abiy wants to tell. He wants the planting trees, controlling rain and in general prosperity for Ethiopia. However, the blood, the sweat and the tears will be the story that will linger on until eternity. Peace.

Ethiopia: The Global Society of Tigrai Scholars (GSTS) – Urgent Call for Protection of Tigrayans under Genocidal Attacks (01.11.2021)

Ethiopia: Looking into Prime Minister Abiy’s statement of “We fight the bitter struggle, we will enjoy the sweet victory”

Today, as the warfare is continuing and the state is suffering big-blows in the Amhara region. The Amhara State Council did nearly simultaneously order a “state of emergency” in their “survival campaign” as the Prime Minister Abiy dropped his statement on Facebook called: “We fight the bitter struggle, we will enjoy the sweet victory”. The Prime Minister have dropped similar texts before, but now it’s more dire and that shows in his rhetoric too.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali started his statement with this:

The terrorist group TPLF, a bad boy that put a problem on his mother, is still a problem for Ethiopia. The hate propaganda has inspired the forces that have gathered and pushed the country to destroy the country. The military forces and the attack on the motherland have been united was lined up to defend the attack on Ethiopia. The enemy is trying to attack by trying his ultimate strength so that our army is not to be supported by earth and air” (Abiy, 31.10.2021).

Just like always, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) is the problem and his saying they are the “problem child” of the “motherland”. The motherland is defending it’s attack and retaliating that. While claiming the Tigray Defence Forces (TDF) are there to destroy the country, which is striking. Considering what the Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) and their allies has been up to since November 2020. These forces has vandalized, destroyed, raped and massacred. These forces are responsible for the man-made famine and the weaponized starvation of the Tigray Region. So, the PM is defending these efforts while blaming his enemy of the all the ills of the Republic. Typical projection, which is very common from the FDRE communications.

He continues: “In the coming times, the enemy will gather the remaining forces and attack similar attacks. We should be aware that the source of strength of the enemy is our weakness and forgetfulness. We should be aware and cooperate and protect it. Our abundance becomes strength when we unite and stand together. Our separation is comfortable for the enemy. With the propaganda that we are disturbed, it will not benefit anyone unless it is that. If we can listen to each other and cooperate with each other, the enemy’s power that starts to fear will kneel down; like a thread, the desire that is broken will be stressed. The herd that came to destroy the country may disturb the power that was created to save the country, but they can’t defeat it” (Abiy, 31.10.2021).

Abiy always speaks of unified mission, as this mission was an survival mission and a final ending. The sort of “do or die” sort of operation. Prime Minister must hate the TPLF so badly and want revenge with all of his heart. That he went into this with vengeance. The PM is claiming the TDF will destroy and at the same time only disturb the Republic. It is just like he cannot see the losing streak changing the narrative. The TDF is advancing and the ENDF and allies is losing at this very moment. That is why everyone is supposed to work with the government and not anyone else.

However, the PM is forgetful about the actions done to the ones and woredas who has been invaded. The sieges and blockade of utilities in the areas of which the TDF has taken over gotten the same treatment, as the state did in the Tigray region. Therefore, why risk joining the state, if it leaves you behind, because it cannot defend you?

He asks the citizens to die for the cause:

If we all play our part before we get disturbed by the challenges we face, the time will not be far away. If we are just asking for the opposite actions, our victory will be delayed. The responsibility of protecting the country from violence is not for a few but for all of us. What does every citizen expect from me? What the hell am I doing? It needs to be said. There is no reason for others to die for his safety, for him to have peace, for him to live in peace, for his work and profit. The country has a soul that stands on its two legs, by the contribution that everyone has, from the river, from the blood, and from the bones. For Ethiopia, the responsibility of dying is ours, but there is no other person to be expected to die a different death. Therefore, our people should hold the defense issue for a while, to protect, destroy and bury the terrorist TPLF that has come to destroy it. This great people have won great historical challenges not by standing on the side of watching or sitting satisfied with a few victories. We won the attacks that we have been against is by standing together for our country” (Abiy, 31.10.2021).

The PM is asking the public and the citizens to take to arms, as the challenge is upon them and the responsibility of the citizens to defend the Republic. Now, the PM is saying that the citizen should sacrifice their lives to stop the TDF from advancing. That means his sending untrained civilians … to defeat the troops and the trained soldiers in a losing war. This means the PM is willing to sacrifice the living citizens to die for his conflict and doing that for his cause. That is really the message the here. I wonder, would the PM sacrifice himself on the battlefield with his army? Well, I doubt he would, as he would rather flee and not be on the front-line.

He continues and ends with this: “We should believe that we can cover up any evil act by following our ancestors’ heroic quest. The challenges we face now may seem unsuccessful and complicated. But it’s not more difficult than the suffering our ancestors saw. The key is to stand together, listen carefully and move together. If we do this, the previous generation can protect the country and transfer it to us, we will also make Ethiopia respected and inherit it to the next generation. Even though the noise and gossip is encouraged, I call on us to stand today with focus, and to protect Ethiopia from violence without any confusion. Ethiopia should be respected and respected by the efforts of her children. May she live forever!! May God bless Ethiopia and her people!” (Abiy, 31.10.2021).

Abiy here speaks of heroics and a grand past of the Ethiopian Republic. That is sort of tale he has used before. As there are many stories and tales of wonders, which has happened in the rich history of Ethiopia. It is undeniable to say otherwise. However, this war is neither heroic or grand. It was a mission of hubris and arrogance of which has backfired epically. Abiy isn’t the hero, but the villain in it and he asks for the children, the future and the this generation to shield the next one. He wants this generation to take arms and protect it. Meaning, he wants people to be armed and ready to go war. That is what the message is today and with the knowledge of the advances in Amhara region.

The PM is following the line of the FDRE Government Communications Service earlier texts in the day. He is just trying to amplify that. This is really evident by this and it is a clear message. Peace.

Ethiopia: The Federal Government is sending out another “War-Cry”

War Cry: a cry used by a body of fighters in war” ( “War cry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/war%20cry. Accessed 31 Oct. 2021.).

Today, as the Tigray Defense Force (TDF) and the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) has both advanced their forces within the Amhara region. The TDF has entered Kombolcha and OLA have captured Kemise. The allies are able to strike real harm and danger in the region, which has been vital to the warfare in the Tigray region. It is also the ones that has been allied with the Federal Government and served with militias to attack the opponents of the state. Therefore, today’s message is epic when you know the troubles, which is ahead for the Federal Government.

The war-cry is from the FDRE Government Communication Service and it’s called “Let’s fight the terrorist and the messengers together!”. This was published today on the 31st October 2021 and after the fall of these strategic towns in the Amhara region.

The message started with this:

The main aim of the invading TPLF terrorist group and came to Wollo is clearly known. The main purpose of this herd was to rob the city and to get heavy weapons from our defense forces. Our brave defence army and all our security forces who are ready to pay their sacrifice and are fighting to cover this enemy’s target” (FDRE Government Communication Service, 31.10.2021).

We are seeing the typical projection of the ENDF and the FDRE, which it has done through the whole war since the start of “Operation Law Enforcement” in November 2020. In a war, the victor usually captures the weapons, ammunition and whatever equipment the losing army has left behind. That is why the Taliban got whatever the foreign forces left behind recently in Afghanistan. This is common in any war and isn’t something to take as “savage” method. The ENDF would have done the same, if they could…

They continue:

In Wollo, especially in Dessie and its surrounding areas, they are pulling the force that says they have an enemy from where they are. In order to achieve its evil aim of destroying Ethiopia, he has put our security forces from the front and back by using the traitors that support the destruction of Ethiopia in Dessie city. The TPLF supporters who are in the city have made a lot of efforts to achieve the target of the terrorist group. They didn’t value that they lived with the people for ages” (FDRE Government Communication Service, 31.10.2021).

Here the FDRE and ENDF are projecting again. The ENDF are the ones that is using artillery and air-strikes against civilian targets. The Tripartite Alliance have done atrocities and crimes against humanity. Secondly, the ENDF and their allies have killed innocent civilians, because of who they are and what ethnic background they have. Therefore, the FDRE have now to claim this was done by the TPLF and the TDF, which it cannot prove. This is disinformation and disgraceful, because we know what the Tripartite Alliance did. They are claiming the TDF did the destruction and such, when the state have started to besiege these areas too. Where they are getting the same treatment, as the Tigray region with no basic necessitates and utilities.

Next up is this:

The government is asking for the last time that the institutions and individuals who are spreading false information on social media and other methods and that are the purpose of the terrorist group should be saved from this. He will take legal action in the next way. The military is making the necessary sacrifices by organizing and strengthening itself. The government calls for the people to fight together as part of the army and bury the herd” (FDRE Government Communication Service, 31.10.2021).

Here the FDRE is asking yet again the people to take up arms and join into the conflict. We know this drill and the FDRE has done this for months. The Amhara region has trained their civil servants and others to prepare for the war. Therefore, this message is a continuation of this. It is not shocking or surprising, but what can untrained civilians do to a advancing troops?

The people are just supposed to continue to sacrifice itself in the warfare made by big-men who underestimated the TDF. The TDF haven’t used the tactics of weaponized starvation or a man-made famine. Therefore, the FDRE is terrorising the innocent civilians of the Tigray region and the surrounding areas, which has taken over by the TDF.

In their message, they have “wise” words to the International Community:

The international community also calls on the government to stand with the people of Amhara and Afar region by condemning the invasion by TPLF terrorist group. The international community should understand the efforts the Ethiopian government is making to save the country from disintegration. Even today, the whole community should support our defense force and the whole security structure that is being carried out carefully by paying sacrifices for the country” (FDRE Government Communication Service, 31.10.2021).

Yes, the TDF did invade and went outside of its regional state. Just like the Tripartite Alliance and their armies did as well when they invaded the Tigray region. The international community is supposed to support this “warfare” and continued conflict. The FDRE is saying the TPLF/TDF is disintegration of the Republic. While the ENDF and it’s allies has targeted and used the ethnic conflict to target all of one kind. Therefore, the ones who is disintegrating the Republic has been the Federal Government. While the IC is also supposed to standby the patriotic fight of the ENDF.

The message ends with:
“The community that is giving a strong response to the call for a nation-wide attack should continue to strengthen the support shown by both human power and bravery. There is no freedom without sacrifice!” (FDRE Government Communication Service, 31.10.2021).

The FDRE and ENDF have targeted one group, one ethnicity and everyone who just happens to be that. The Federal Government and their allies went after one political group, but targeted everyone in their way. The FDRE calls it’s a nation-wide attack. While we are supposed to forget the ENDF and allies was prepared before the Northern Command was attacked. The ENDF and allies … was encircling the Tigray region with mechanical brigades and such ahead of it.

The FDRE and ENDF has failed their enterprise and they have to call it all a sacrifice. The FDRE has wasted an ample opportunity to elevate the Republic. Instead the government squandered the opportunities and went to war. A war they are looking like loosing at the very moment. That is why they are asking, yet again for the sacrifice of the people. Peace.

Ethiopia: Statement from Tigray National Political Parties Forum [Salsay Weyane Tigray (SaWeT), National Congress of Great Tigray (Baytona) and Tigray Independence Party (TIP)] – A Comprehensive Peace Proposal for the Resolution of the Ethio-Tigray War (28.10.2021)