Eritrea: Shabait finally commits to partaking in Tigray as an ally and talks of military drills…

In Asmara, one-part of the Tripartite Alliance has reacted to the publication of an article on the Ethiopian news-outlet the “Borkena”. That isn’t ordinary but extraordinary. Since, the Shabait and the Ministry of Information tends to refute “western” publications and articles. Not go after reporting in the neighbourhood.

That’s why today is extra-extra, read all about it sort of vibe. Shabait published their retort today under this banner: “ Press Release – Disinformation that stems from and feeds innuendos” which isn’t striking or out of the ordinary. No, this is common practice and the Shabait just have to enlighten everyone.

What is just unique is how revealing parts of the texts are and how blatant it has become. They are not even trying to conceal or hide things. The Shabait and Eritrean Ministry of Information is just emptying out of their chest. If this is planned, it is weird and wonders why… because it just shows their actions to the whole wide world.

I’m only taking parts of points 3 and 4 from the “press release” because that was so juicy.

Let me show you and then discuss.

Point 3:

“Eritrea and Ethiopia duly cooperated in the counter-offensive operations to thwart the huge threat that both countries faced when the TPLF regime unleashed its unprovoked War of Insurrection in November 2020. The cooperation freely agreed and worked out by both countries had various components at the time. To stretch this cooperation and peddle false allegations is factually wrong and morally deplorable. There are of course various forces, especially outside the region, which were perturbed by the historic Eritrea-Ethiopia Peace Agreement of 2018 and who continue to leave no stone unturned to scuttle the process. BORKENA may have unwittingly fallen into their trap; or it has all along belonged to the same league, although this has remained under the surface until this latest publication” (Shabait, 12.05.2023).

Point 4:

“Finally, BORKENA claims that “Eritrea has embarked on new military exercise in all corners of the country”. Again this is pure hyperbole that stems from ignorance; if not driven by outright sinister agenda. The Eritrean army conducts a couple of days’ refresher exercises – mostly physical exercises – of its reserve army every six months or so. The recent physical exercises are the routine norms carried out in peace time” (Shabait, 12.05.2023).

What is striking about Point 3? Well, the Shabait is now saying they were an ally in the “Law Enforcement Operation” and partook in the Tigray War. They are now saying they went into it and worked together with Ethiopia. This is not trying to hide the fact and is acknowledging their military involvement in the war. They have in the past tried to hide this fact and act like they were innocent, which was far from the case. That’s why today’s paragraph was more than interesting.

We know Shabait wants to rewrite the “start” or “reason for the war”. That is something all of the Tripartite Alliance has worked upon. They have all tried to deflect and disguise their planned efforts for war and conflict. Because, the Amhara, the ENDF and the EDF was all ready to attack the Tigray region. This was all co-ordinated and they have to mask this a “counter-offensive, which is just obnoxious… knowing how the ENDF, Amhara Para-Military Group “Fano” and the EDF was all battle-ready and wanted to invade Tigray. Therefore, Shabait is taking people for fools… thinking the units, mechanical divisions and such just happened on the “blink of an eye” in November 2020…

When we see Point 4 it is just a old tale of being caught “red-handed”. The Eritrean authorities and Shabait has for years tried to act like it doesn’t do it and wouldn’t enrage the neighbours. Nevertheless, now they are stating the ordinary “military drills” which happens to be in the border regions. That has caused a stir and diplomatic mission to be concerned. It is really unique to see the Shabait doubling down this way and revealing things it normally doesn’t do.

Borkena needs to write more about Eritrea and spread more “disinformation”. Just so the Shabait can reveal more “hidden secrets” to the world to know. Peace.

Eritrea: Statement of the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights situaton in Eritrea, Mr Mohamed Abdelsalam Babiker – 50th Session of the Human Rights Council – Ineractive Dialogue on Eritrea – 13 June 2022 (13.06.2022)

Ethiopia-Eritrea: Shabait says Badme is theirs, the conflict over the Badme triangle… never ends…

“Even before the economic issue became important, however, in July 1997, Ethiopian forces occupied part of the Badda District, a small, remote, but more fertile area close to the Danakil depression, and replaced the Eritrean administration in the village of Adi Murug. The claim was on historical grounds, and based on the “inaccuracy” of current maps. The most widely used map of Eritrea, published in 1995 by the Eritrean Government in cooperation with the University of Berne, shows only Eritrean territory; neighbouring countries are simply marked in grey. Unhelpfully, this map shows neither Adi Murug nor Badme nor places just across the Ethiopian border, such as Zalambessa. Despite its claims, the map presented by the Ethiopian government to representatives of the international community in Addis Ababa in May 1998 showed the border in the same way as in all current atlases. A month later, however, the provincial authorities in Mekelle (Tigray) produced a different map – funded, in their case, in cooperation with the German government which showed several areas hitherto considered part of Eritrea coming within the Ethiopian border” (Margaret Fielding – ‘BAD TIMES IN BADME: BITTER WARFARE CONTINUES ALONG THE ERITREA-ETHIOPIA BORDER’ – IBRU Boundary and Security Bulletin Spring 1999).

The Tripartite Alliance are still very active and there is reports of furthering the war in the Tigray Region. The reports that the Eritrean Defence Force has been stationed and vital in the warfare in the Tigrayan war of late is an understatement. The EDF has been one of the reasons why the Tigray region was invaded and they occupied it whole for some time. That was a retaliation of old grudges and wanted to settle old grievances. Therefore… that Shabait brings back the Badme Triangle.

Shows that the Eritrean government planned all along to annex and get the territory, which has been contested. The Ethiopian government has also claimed this land and the Badme Territory. Now, the Eritrean government claims it theirs and that the recent peace agreement of 2018 is stating so. This means the Tigray Regional Government have to give up this territory and let the demarcation of the border continue. That is evident and the Eritrean government does this… as they have allies in Addis Ababa and wants Mekelle to know that.

Here is the most interesting parts of the Shabait piece published today:

“When TPLF’s military campaigns was thwarted by a costly defeat at the Assab Front in June 2000, it was finally forced to accept cessation of hostilities and later the entire Algiers Peace Agreement on December 12, 2000. The Algiers Agreement created a court of arbitration, the EEBC. The Algiers Agreement also stipulated, in categorical terms, that “the parties agree that the delimitation and demarcation determinations of the Commission shall be final and binding”. But notwithstanding the unequivocal provisions of the Algiers Agreement, the EEBC decision was not enforced by the UN Security Council because principal sponsors – especially the US and the EU – failed to honour their obligations for their own narrow geopolitical considerations. When the EEBC decision was announced, Seyoum Mesfin, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister at the time falsely claimed that “Badme was awarded to Ethiopia”. He urged the international community to use punitive sanctions if necessary, to secure Eritrea’s full and immediate compliance with the provisions of the EEBC Award. The Foreign Minister and his government were soon to make a u-turn, sing a different song and reject the EEBC Award. Subsequent sessions of the EEBC were marked by Ethiopia’s dilatory tactics. Thus, in its 16th Report to the UN in 2006, the Commission was compelled to write: “Ethiopia is not prepared to allow demarcation to continue in the manner laid down in the demarcation directions and in accordance with the timeline set by the Commission.” (…) “The course of events changed when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed declared Ethiopia’s readiness to accept and implement in full the Decision of the Boundary Commission. Following his visit to Asmara, a Joint Declaration on Peace and Friendship was signed between Eritrea and Ethiopia on July 9, 2018. The Declaration brought to an end eighteen years of ‘no war no peace’ between Ethiopia and Eritrea and opened a new era of peace and friendship. Article four of the Joint Agreement stipulates that “The two countries will implement the Eritrea-Ethiopia Boundary Commission decision.” (Shabait – ‘We do Not Relinquish What is ours; Nor do We Covet What Belongs to Others: (Natna Aynhbn Zeynatna Ayndeln)’ 13.04.2022).

We know these ideals of Badme is old by now. As it has been part of the independence of Eritrea from Ethiopia. The Eritrean government is willing to use Italian colonial maps to prove it too. That the land and territory belongs to them.

That’s why Eritrea Daily wrote this in 2005: “At worst, the status of Badme is unclear, at best, Badme is part of Eritrea and never Ethiopian. Regardless, if there is any one left that believes Ethiopia has accepted the border ruling, here is the proof to the contrary: In a clear demonstration of its defiance of the border ruling, Ethiopia today reported that it has started registering voters in the village of Eritrean Badme for the upcoming “elections.” The international community cannot remain indifferent to this Ethiopia’s provocative action?” (EDNews, 22.01.2005).

So, the Eritrean claims are old and they are pursuing them still. What is striking is the Tripartite Alliance way of violating, war-crimes and weaponizing humanitarian assistance isn’t helping the cause of Asmara. Even if the Badme triangle or parts of Badda district is belonging to Eritrea. Their forces and the acts done in Tigray region will not help them legitimizing it. Instead, there will no goodwill and no wishes of recognizing the border between the two nations. They will rather ensure the investigations into the warfare, the violations of the Geneva convention and crimes against humanity.

The Eritrean government could be within their rights and have historical basis for the territory. However, when they are known for their actions and use of force against unarmed civilians within the Tigray region. Very few to none will give them a bouquet of flowers and give the Republic more territory.

The WikiLeaks cable says this: “Legwaila, who has served as UNMEE SRSG for five years, detailed how both Ethiopia and Eritrea had initially committed to accept any decision by the EEBC, at December 2000 cease-fire talks in Algiers. Upon the announcement of the EEBC’s decision in April 2002, Ethiopia’s foreign minister hosted a celebration and issued a statement hailing the decision as a victory for both parties; however, Ethiopia had not realized that Badame had been awarded to Eritrea. The reason for this is the EEBC did not identify Badame so it took sometime for the experts to determine to whom Badame had been given. Legwaila observed that delimitation of the border (i.e., determining where it lies) was complete, whereas demarcation (i.e., placing physical markers) was stalemated. Delimitation of the border had been conducted professionally and impartially, Legwaila said, through an Asmara-based chief surveyor armed with GPS equipment and assistance from New Zealand experts, and with aerial mapping conducted by a Swedish company. Demarcation would reflect the boundaries determined by delimiation — there would be very little change, e.g. Badame would remain in Eritrea” (WikiLeaks – ‘UNITED NATIONS REQUESTS USG ASSISTANCE TO MONITOR AND RESOLVE ERITREA-ETHIOPIA CRISIS’ 28.10.2008).

Time will tell if Prime Minister Abiy will honour his peace agreement with Asmara. Which is what Shabait hopes it does. The Tripartite Alliance has been favourable for the PM and his reign. That has helped his causes and he couldn’t continue or hold on so long with warfare in Ethiopia. He needs the EDF and he knows that. Therefore, if the Tripartite Alliance is able to silence and annihilate the Tigray region. That’s what the alliance wants to achieve.

Alas, the Eritrean government is clearly saying by publishing this on Shabait. That they want it legitimized and recognized. This is the what it is initially saying. While we can wonder how Mekelle is thinking about this. Since, this is taking away territory it had occupied for a few decades now. While the current federal government of Ethiopia might offer it and do it, because Abiy has a good relations with Afewerki. Peace.

Opinion: Shabait proves that Eritrea is a staunch Russian ally

This is not shocking, but not only the “no” vote on the Resolution against the Russian Aggression on Ukraine. They are doubling down on their stance, as dropped on piece on defending that. Now they are furthering it and digging deeper. Not like the Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Shabait is making their stance any better. However, they are just showing how they are willing to defend the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

It is really magnificent that the text of Shabait starts like this:

“These are dangerous times. The anguish and human sufferings inculcated in the war in Ukraine are too familiar that could and should have been avoidable from the outset. More ominously, the world is on a precipice of a colossal disaster; the threat and potential for a major conflagration cannot be downplayed or shrugged off if we stay on this dangerous course” (Shabait – ‘Ukraine As Sacrificial Lamb’, 04.03.2022).

It is like the Eritrean Foreign Affairs is using the propaganda of Russian allies. That is very evident, in the manner of which it says the war could have been avoided and a dangerous course. This is using the will of Ukraine to either join the European Union (EU) or Northern Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). As a sovereign nation, it is the free will of the Ukrainian republic to join whatever multi-national organization, coalition or defence body, which it deems fit. Just like Russia can do the same.

The Shabait is playing on the diplomatic entanglement, which is using NATO as an excuse for the Russian invasion. That is giving no agency of Russia or their Head of State, Vladimir Putin. Putin ordered and sanctioned this war. He had annexed Crimea in 2014 and supported separatist since then in the Donbass region. So, the Russian Federation has already taken territory and interfered on parts of the Ukrainian integrity. For a county like Eritrea to say this was a major disaster that could have been avoided. The Eritrean government and army has gone to war over smaller territories in Djibouti and Ethiopia (Badme). So, the Eritrean government should understand the loss and the pain of Ukraine. Still, the Eritrean government is siding with the bigger-brother. Would Eritrea be fine, if Ethiopia would invade and take bigger parts of Eritrea? I am sure the Asmara government wouldn’t be fine with the interference or support of militias to work against the Eritrean government. Therefore, it is really tragic of Shabait to do this.

“This is not a crisis that erupted yesterday. The seeds of the current crisis were planted and have been brewing for the last thirty years by forces of domination and hegemony who craved to establish a unipolar world order. The inevitable corollary of this misguided and perilous policy was the encirclement and “containment” of Russia since it was perceived as the primary obstacle to their objectives. Ukraine is sadly a victim and has been scape-goated in their overarching scheme of “tightening the noose on Russia”. In this perspective, the issue is not a matter of support for Russia or Putin” (Shabait – ‘Ukraine As Sacrificial Lamb’, 04.03.2022).

They are clearly on the side of Russia here. While calling the Ukrainian people a victim for the scapegoating of Russia. That is the definition of defending the invader in the war. They are siding with Moscow and no other statement is needed. The “no” vote is really just representing how Eritrea defends Russian and their invasion. That is evident here and there is no other way to see it. The Eritrean Ministry of Foreign Affairs isn’t worried about the sovereign or the integrity of any nation. This nation can easily defend the Russian and their imperial dreams.

The Eritrean cannot say they are not supporting it directly, but indirectly supporting it. That is how they are trying to twist it, but that doesn’t make it more true.

The ending of the text is really satire here:

“A unipolar, or polarized world order, is antithetical to the fundamental pillars of robust multilateralism as well as the lofty aspirations of the majority of the world’s peoples and nations. This is what is at stake in these crucial times” (Shabait – ‘Ukraine As Sacrificial Lamb’, 04.03.2022).

This end is really unique coming from Shabait. A Ministry of Foreign Affairs who usually targets the West and the United States of America (USA). Therefore, the Shabait must be really out of order here. Since, this isn’t the usual business of Eritrea. Neither the ideals it speaks of here. It is more self-centred and that’s why writings like this is insincere.

Eritrea wants to support Russia, but wants a unipolar world order. While they are supporting the nation that is invading a smaller republic. Because, Putin wants to revive the Soviet Union. This should have been acknowledged, but Eritrea wants to be loyal to the allies of Moscow. They don’t want to offend or even say anything that would tarnish that alliance. Peace.

Opinion: Eritrea’s UNGA “No” Vote Explanation isn’t it!

“Recognizing that the military operations of the Russian Federation inside the sovereign territory of Ukraine are on a scale that the international community has not seen in Europe in decades and that urgent action is needed to save this generation from the scourge of war” (…) “1. Reaffirms its commitment to the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, extending to its territorial waters;

2. Deplores in the strongest terms the aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine in violation of Article 2 (4) of the Charter;

3. Demands that the Russian Federation immediately cease its use of force against Ukraine and to refrain from any further unlawful threat or use of force against any Member State;

4. Also demands that the Russian Federation immediately, completely and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from the territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders;” (Draft Resolution A/ES-11/1-1 – “Aggression against Ukraine” 02.03.2022).

No surprises here. I am only taking a small fraction of the Extraordinary United Nations General Assembly and their resolution against the “Aggression against Ukraine” which only a few nations who voted no or abstained from voting against it. That’s because the international community and solidarity towards the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Eritrea was one of the member states in the United Nations who voted “no” on the resolution. It just show their allegiance and friendly relations towards Russia. They are showing this loyalty while voting their way. However, the excuses for defending it isn’t it. The Eritrean diplomats should just say: “We are in debt to Moscow and their aide towards us is valuable. That’s why we are willing to go against all principals and rights of a sovereign. Therefore, we are reaffirming the support and standing behind the warfare of the Russian federation in Ukraine”. If the Eritrean government and diplomats had done that. They had at least been sincere… and not this shallow, as Shabait is in it’s defence.

Just look here:

“Eritrea firmly believes that respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence, as enshrined in the United Nations Charter, are sacrosanct principles and should be respected by everyone, at all times, for the attainment of sustainable world peace. Eritrea’s vote is a demonstration of its uncompromising stand for peace. Its position is against internationalizing, incessant rhetoric, and impositions of unilateral sanctions, which regrettably further polarize international relations and escalate the situation with enormous implications for civilians. Instead, we have consistently opted for world regions to be given the needed space and solidarity to address political problems” (Shabait – ‘Explanation of vote after the vote by the delegation of Eritrea’ 02.03.2022).

“Let me conclude by reiterating that Eritrea would like to see that the windows for diplomacy remain open. We are confident of the ability of the parties to resolve their differences and reach an outcome that meets the interests and concerns of all. We hope that the international community constructively supports the parties in their search for sustainable peace” (Shabait – ‘Explanation of vote after the vote by the delegation of Eritrea’ 02.03.2022).

When you read this text, it makes sense, but when you see it in the light of vital parts of the resolution against Russia. You see how the Eritrean diplomats is double-speaking. As it speaks of respecting the UN Charter and the values of being a sovereign, but the Eritrea state voted against rebuking the invasion and warfare within Ukraine by an outside entity. Therefore, Eritrea cannot defend that and stand behind it in this manner. Since, it is indirectly supporting the invasion by voting “no” and not respecting the sovereign member state Ukraine.

I don’t see how the “no” vote is a sign of peace. It is a direct support of the nation that is ordering war on another. Maybe, because the Eritrean doesn’t want to have votes against it’s actions within another sovereign Ethiopia, which it has been participating in the warfare in Tigray region and elsewhere in Ethiopia. That would make sense, as they are war-lords and behind atrocities there. So, they need the support of Russia to be able to continue the war itself. Russians should be happy to see this vote, as they are supported by one ally, which happens to be Eritrea.

It is clear that Eritrea isn’t worried if a bigger nation would violate it or invade it. Since, they are vouching for Russia here. That’s the essence here. They are supporting the imperial powers of the world and Eritrea isn’t someone you can trust diplomatically, apparently. It is not shocking, but just a further proof of what it is willing to do. And say afterwards … to defend their despicable act of Russia in Ukraine. Peace.

Djibouti: Ministere des Affaires Etrangeres et de la Cooperation Internationale – Communique (15.11.2021)

Eritrea: Permanent Mission of the State of Eritrea to the United Nations – Eritrea’s Re-Election to the United Nations Human Rights Council (14.10.2021)

A look into the newest UN Special Rapporteur Report (47-HRC) on Eritrea and the Shabait Rebuttal

What I will do is to take things side-by-side just to show how ridiculous things can become. Because, this is just showing how things are finessed and done. This is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Shabait) and how the United Nations operate. The lack of coordination and the lack of mutual consent. Which is the reason for this.

We know its getting hectic, when the Shabait response to the whole report has this headline: “Rumors Cannot be Presented as Facts”. That’s how they pop-it off. It sets the parameter and shows their ways. There is no middle-ground, but just throwing everything at it.

We know the Special Rapporteur Mohamed Abdelsalam Babike doesn’t have a nice job either. As he states early this: “given the lack of cooperation of the Government with the Special Rapporteur, who was denied access to the country, he collated the necessary information through alternative means”. Because of that he was forced to: “The Special Rapporteur conducted remote monitoring and held meetings with a broad range of actors, such as diplomats, human rights defenders, civil society representatives and academics. In addition, the Special Rapporteur collected first-hand information from Eritrean refugees residing in other countries, with a view to informing his assessment of the situation of human rights in Eritrea”.

In this regard, the Eritrean government gave him no choice but do things remotely. Still, they are saying this in their rebuttal about the method: “As with previous SR reports on Eritrea, the lack of reliable data, heavy dependence on biased sources, non-verifiable approach, and ignorance of Eritrea’s ground realities renders the methodology and the essence of the allegations tenuous and unacceptable”.

What is funny about this… the government says they want a reliable and another methodology, but dismiss and doesn’t make it possible for the Special Rapporteur to investigate in the first place. So, if you close the borders and doesn’t cooperate. How is he supposed to get the information in the first place? You cannot close the doors and also claim whatever information he collects as wrong. With this sort of look into it. It seems like the objective of Eritrea is to call everything bogus and lies, while not allowing people to look into their works. This is the United Nations and not just a random organization having a mission of some sorts. Therefore, this is just making things more suspicious in the end of Eritrea. That they don’t want information out in the first place…

When things gets really tricky, is when the Special Rapporteur says this: “The Special Rapporteur highlights that, as a member of the Human Rights Council, Eritrea should strengthen its cooperation with all human rights mechanisms. In particular, the Special Rapporteur encourages the Government to strengthen its cooperation with his mandate and engage constructively, and to enhance its engagement and technical cooperation with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, which remains ready to assist Eritrea in the three priority human rights areas identified by the authorities, as well as in the implementation of the recommendations from human rights mechanisms, including those emanating from the universal periodic review”.

While Shabait says this: “Like every other country in the world, Eritrea faces challenges. However, the GoSE continuously works to address these challenges and improve human rights standards in the country. Accordingly, there is no “crisis” that warrants the targeting of the nation through HRC agendas and mandates”. When Eritrea answers the UN Special Rapporteur like this. You know the whole thing is bound to fail. The UN Special Rapporteur is there, because the UN appointed him. Not because his job is to undermine Eritrea. That’s just a fact and the government in Asmara clearly don’t want that. However, their hostility and lack of cooperation. Only opens up the questions… why are they hiding and not just giving way, if they have a perfect Human Rights record? Why are they not inviting and showing the greatness of the Republic?

Well… you go figure… right?

Then, you have this one, which is on the origin of the Tigray conflict. The Special Rapporteur says this: “On 4 November 2020, tensions escalated in the region and an armed conflict erupted in Tigray when the Ethiopian National Defence Forces launched a military offensive against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front in response to reported attacks against the Ethiopian National Defence Forces’ military bases in Tigray by Tigrayan forces. The Ethiopian National Defence Forces were allegedly supported by Amhara regional forces and the Amhara Fano militia in western Tigray, and in particular by the Eritrean Defence Forces in northern and central Tigray”. While Shabait answers with this: “Emboldened by some governments, the Western media, and NGOs, the TPLF, by its own admission, unleashed an insurrectionist war in November 2020 after it was ousted from power in 2018 after 27 years of despotic rule in Ethiopia. The objective of this massive, premeditated and unprovoked attack that the TPLF launched on all the contingents of the Ethiopian army in the north was to totally neutralize the Northern Command which possessed around 80% of the EDF’s total arsenal. The TPLF killed several hundred non-Tigrayan soldiers within the Northern Command and its overall plan was to topple the central government once it had pacified the Northern Command”. As Shabait continues: “Subsequent plans included military action against Eritrea to advance its avowed “regime change” agenda as well as incorporation of Eritrean sovereign territories for its long-term, multi-layered, aims and aspirations”.

Here you see that Eritrea isn’t looking into their own actions or as a part of the tripartite alliance in Tigray region. No, they are shifting everything at the TPLF. That is an deliberate act. While the Special Rapporteur is looking at it objectively. That’s why the wording is so careful. The Shabait is going after the TPLF and their actions, but not stating anything about their own. Also, giving a history lesson of the misdeeds of the TPLF. While it is not saying it is currently involved any of it itself. Implying it is all justified and there is no reason to doubt that… While all three parties was preparing and launching the attacks on Tigray. So, they could easily blame the TPLF no matter what it did… and the rest is history and a conflict living on to this day.

What is further striking is this one, where the Special Rapporteur says this: “The Special Rapporteur welcomes the decision adopted on 22 March 2021 by the Council of the European Union, under the European Union’s global human rights sanctions regime, imposing sanctions on Eritrea for serious violations of human rights, including acts of torture, extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions and killings in Eritrea. The Council imposed restrictive measures on eleven individuals and four entities responsible for serious human rights violations and abuses in China, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Eritrea, Libya, the Russian Federation and South Sudan”. When Shabait retorts with this: “Mention has also been made regarding EU sanctions on Eritrea amid the ongoing discussion to withhold development support in particular in the pretext of the unwarranted and worn-out allegations surrounding National Service and forced labor (paragraph 24) as well as other baseless human rights allegations. Any such pre-condition on development cooperation is unacceptable. Eritrea remains committed to the effective mobilization, higher organization, and creation of national capacity in the implementation of its development programmes. It is, however, equally committed to cooperation predicated on partnership, involving mutual respect and understanding. Thus, it rejects any attempts at intimidation, coercion, or harassment under the veil of human rights and development cooperation”.

Here we are seeing a stark contrast again. What is really significant. That Eritrea is against the sanctions. That’s to be expected, because who wants to be sanctioned and getting retribution. However, instead of letting people in and see that these things doesn’t happen. The Eritrean state is just retaliating. The UN Special Rapporteur only verifies the reports and the surrounding misgivings of the Eritrean state. Something the Eritrean doesn’t prove to be wrong. They just call it baseless, but doesn’t prove anything or say anything in significant in consideration with the alleged human rights violations. Which is the reason of the sanctions in the first place. The EU will have mechanisms where there is a need for burden of proof and evidence before sanctioning a nation. Which in effect has been enacted. Eritrea furthers the victimhood by calling it harassment and intimidation. That just shows they have no intent in changing its behaviour or try to prove their innocence.

The UN Special Rapporteur says: “The Special Rapporteur is concerned that the indefinite duration of military and civil service reportedly remains one of the main causes for the departure of Eritreans from their country. With the end of the state of war with Ethiopia, the Special Rapporteur encourages the Government to outline a timetable for reforms to its national service”. The Shabait answers with: “The causality inference (paragraph 40) suggested in the present report between national service and migration from Eritrea is unjustified and unacceptable. In line with the new development drive, as well as the emerging prospects of viable peace and cooperation in the Horn of Africa, efforts will gradually be made to return National Service to its original duration. Moreover, a significant number of national service members have been integrated into the new remuneration system which improved the salary scale of the civil service”.

This here shows the trouble with it here. As the Special Rapporteur states an issue with the military and civil service in Eritrea. While the Shabait tries to dismiss that. However, there is no way this is explaining the Eritreans fleeing from these state programs, which is causing this. The Eritrean government is downplaying it. This just shows how things are… and therefore, we just know the ideals will not be answered. That was a proof of the beginning.

They are both ending with this, which is interesting. The Special Rapporteur states this: “The Special Rapporteur calls upon the Government to acknowledge the persistence of human rights violations and abuses in Eritrea, and to allow him and other human rights mandate holders effective access to visit all areas of the country and meet with relevant stakeholders, with a view to addressing the human rights challenges that it faces”. While Shabait says this: “It is time for the HRC to break with its 8-years long unproductive approach by terminating the mandate imposed on Eritrea. On its part, Eritrea will continue to expand and consolidate dignified engagement and international cooperation based on partnership and will continue its modest contribution to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the Council, while working together with other members to depoliticize the Council and its agendas”.

This is how two worlds are colliding. A nation and a sovereign like Eritrea who is saying everything is baseless. While Eritrea isn’t opening up for the UN Special Rapporteur. Therefore, the allegations and the reported breaches of human rights violations aren’t investigated directly, but only proven by eyewitnesses in the diaspora.

The Eritrean state should consider another path, because this sort of retort isn’t safeguarding it. It is just opening up a plethora of questions. As it is not willing to open up. Shabait is just throwing shade. This sort of answer isn’t making any good grounds, but make you further questions the actions of Eritrea.

The UN Special Rapporteur is appointed and gotten a mandate from someone else. Shabait is only defending its state, but its not doing a good job. It is a hit-job, but not hitting the target. Unless, it was to make headlines in local news. Where they can look like they did something, which isn’t true. It did nothing… Peace.

The Fall of Abere Adamu: A sudden death with mysterious circumstances….

Today it’s reported that the former Amhara Police Commissioner Abere Adamu mysteriously died. This was just mere days after he was sacked from this office. The Commissioner was also in-charge of Amhara Special Forces, which have been involved in various atrocities and horrific crimes across the Republic.

The Special Forces have been used as tool to silence opposition, get rid of ethnic groups and participate in massacres. Therefore, his a war-criminal who got taken out. He surely knew too much and needed to be silenced too.

That he died now is suspicious. The state ways of manoeuvring this isn’t better either. As they are sending the body from Amhara to Addis for autopsy. The circumstances of his death is all unclear and no official announcement of it too.

That makes it seems like it was a statement. Like the state was worried of what knowledge he has or what sort of operation he was operating. In such a manner, that they had to get rid of him and possibly assassinate him. That is mere speculation, but this man spoiled the narrative of the Prime Minister too and the overnight surprise attack on the Northern Command ahead of the Law Enforcement Operation, which the deceased Police Commander stated was well-prepared for and had the troops around the Tigray Region.

This is why the suspicious death. Open a box of questions. Just like the coup of Amhara Regional State in 2019. Where all the yes-men of the Prime Minister got appointed after. Now, his also dead and maybe another puppet will get installed. Clearly, the Prosperity Party can easily get rid of its leaders and just appoint new ones. Except for their beloved one on the top.

Adamu died by default of the monster he was part of unleashing. When you start a war and participate in warfare. There will be bystanders, innocent civilians and partakers who fall on the sword. He was a leader and a man who ordered death of others.

Adamu knew what was going on and stood strong in the middle of bloodbath, massacres and possible genocide. He was okay with the internally displaced people, refugees, starvation and in general the military operation in Tigray. The man stood by all of this and did his duties.

That is why his memory will be the blood on his hands. He maybe died unfavourably and with blunt force. The same sort of force he has ordered upon others. He was maybe taken out, because the “high power” was afraid of him spilling the beans. They wouldn’t except him talking and this man did talk to much in the past.

Adamu is now another one of the men who was trusted by Abiy, but fell on his sword. Another one who has taken the bullet and paid the ultimate price of death. This is the reform that Abiy brings and Adamu is just the last example of this tragic endeavour of the Prime Minister. Peace.

Opinion: Special Envoy Feltman is not the right man for the Horn of Africa

A career diplomat and a man who is controversial. Is not the sort of figure you send to fix or amend issues. An outspoken and ideological man like Jeffrey Feltman will only configure the conflicts and the situations at hand for the benefits of American interests. That is what he has done in his position most of his life.

Except for his stint under Ban Ki-Moon in United Nations and prolonged under Antonio Guterres. He has been a career diplomat across the Northern Africa and Middle East. His role in Lebanon and elsewhere is where his most noteworthy from.

Feltman is a person that take sides. When he actively takes sides in divided landscapes as a senior career diplomat. What will he do as Horn of Africa Envoy? I doubt he will wind beneficial middle-ground or emphasis on the common grounds between the parties. He is afraid of the Iranian and possible Turkish involvement in the region. As he also seeks to promote and secure the American interests first.

That means we know that this Special Envoy will be partial and be affected by his allegiance. He will not come with a clean slate or be working accordingly to the problems at hand. This man will not solve the issues or come with clear mediation. No, this man will further U.S. interests. These words are taken from Karim Makdisi who teaches at the American University in Beirut. Who assessed Feltman’s role in the area as an ambassador.

When you are known for things like this and going into the Horn of Africa at his very moment. The person should be less questionable. Joe Biden appointed him since his been a person trusted in the Obama Administration and has a diplomatic record spanning over years. This is a token recognition of that. However, his still a man peculiar fella who suddenly going into a mine-field.

A person who believes in “non-interfering” but interfering to avoid “enemies” interfering. Therefore, that split-personality trait doesn’t make much sense either. Except he lives in a cold-war paradigm with Iran. Which clearly could be shifted to anywhere in the world.

Feltman will pick sides whether it is in Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia or Sudan. This man will also pin-point and look after the U.S. interests. That is why this man isn’t just a random a dude travelling and taking a safari. No, this man will not be the best diplomat. A man who could easily ask for a military government in Lebanon (wikileaks leaked cables proved that). He could easily assess a situation and confess to the sustainability now. Just to buy peace and the comfort of having a U.S. ally on the throne.

As a Special Envoy he is supposed to mediate in Tigray conflict, which has been going on since 4^th November 2020. There he will by default have to intervene with the Tripartite Alliance and get vouched by them for talks. However, Abiy haven’t been in favour of any real talks or outsiders looking into it. As that would devastate his image and tarnish his “reformist” mind.

The Special Envoy is also supposed to mediate in the Al-Fashaqa triangle. Where the Sudanese have sent more forces and secured their border points. While the Ethiopian with their Tripartite Alliance have entered in here as an escalation of the Tigray conflict. Abiy have held small talks with Al-Burhan, but nothing sincere. It seems likely that the Special Envoy needs a miracle and I wonder, if he would booster the new ally in Khartoum or try to appease Addis Ababa. Hard to know, but with the likes of Feltman will have to be calm and figure out what matters here.

The last piece of trouble ahead is the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the Nile dialogue between Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan. The three has held negotiations and talks, but haven’t landed on a agreement to settle the shared water. This here is both a talk of sovereign use of water sources and how that will affect the up-stream nations. This is why the Special Envoy have to dwindle into colonial agreements and newer ones as well. While being able to play ball with Cairo, Khartoum and Addis Ababa. His career task alone to finalize and be able to please all parties. Someone has to give, but we can wonder who will do that.

The GERD negotiations and talks alone will be more hostile. As the Ethiopian claims in the Al-Fashaqa region/triangle and their skirmishes inside Sudan. The relations has soured over this. That will not help the Special Envoy before even entering. As well, as his intervention or possible mandate hasn’t been granted by any of the parties involved. Who hasn’t a favourable view of American touches here. As the previous administration was taken Egypt’s side and this feeling might linger on.

Therefore, the likes of a Special Envoy in the first place is a noble idea of Biden. Nevertheless, taking a career diplomat should been seen as a positive. However, the history of Feltman and his manners. He can be seen as a spinster for American interests over the needs to salvage peace. This man isn’t the one who should have been sent. Maybe, Biden should have tried to get someone appointed through the African Union or boost IGAD itself. Even though these mechanisms are weak, but joint ventures with United Nations has helped in the past. Therefore, if Biden and UNSC had intervened with a UN-AU prospects into both Tigray, GERD and Ethiopian-Sudan tensions. The possible outcome could have been better and properly monitored by the International community.

However, a Feltman will only serve Washington D.C. and their needs. While being a token American interfering for these interests. He will not be there to be a peacemaker. Just like Abiy isn’t a man of peace either by any stretch of imagination. Al-Burhan and the Sovereign Council is also military men. When there is very civilians and more soldiers on the ground. There is little stopping more conflict. There is a need for mediation and talks between the leaders who orders the battalions.

Nevertheless, Feltman isn’t the man and just by the mere history. It is a flawed enterprise to send him now. Especially, when I cannot see or heard any of the parties have really asked of this of late. The need for local solutions is clear. There is a need for salvaging hope in the midst of the conflict. Feltman isn’t the man to interfere here.

He is getting a false start, as he comes as a forced surprise on all stakeholders and governments. It is not like he has been vetted or accepted by anyone else than Biden and Blinken. They have handpicked him and vouched for him. Now, he has to drop his credentials at all the mentioned capitals and after that pick a leaf for possible talks about the advanced weaponry and silence them as well.

I wouldn’t want to be in Feltman’s shoes at this point in time. First his not the man for the job. No matter about his long career. The reputation he has follows him and makes him questionable at best. Secondly, he has a mandate from Washington D.C. but not from the any of the sovereign nations his supposed to interfere in. Third, the U.S. isn’t that favourable or a “neutral” in these conflicts. Therefore, he has throw a curveball to be able to wing it here.

Feltman is in battles where he cannot win and I cannot see it coming Unless, there is a sudden miracle or a moment of nostalgia … where they changes their stances and gives way. However, that happens in movies, but not in the real world. Peace.