Mekelle/Tel Aviv/Nairobi/Pretoria/London
Roads Remain Blocked in Mekelle as Tigray Forces Continue Pay Dispute
Mekelle, Ethiopia — October 14, 2025
Protests by members of the Tigray regional forces demanding improved pay and benefits have entered their second day, continuing across several parts of the region despite an appeal from the President of the Tigray Interim Administration, Lt. Gen. Tadesse Werede.
Demonstrations began on Monday in Mekelle, where soldiers blocked major roads, including the main route connecting the city center to Alula Aba Nega Airport. The protesters are calling for salary increases and allowances comparable to those previously granted to members of the disbanded regional special forces, along with housing and other forms of support.
According to eyewitnesses and local media, road closures extended into Tuesday. In Agula, approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Mekelle, forces blocked the main highway linking the regional capital to Wukro, Adigrat, and other northern towns, causing significant disruptions to transportation and daily movement.
A source from the office of the interim administration confirmed to Addis Standard that Lt. Gen. Tadesse Werede addressed the protesters in Mekelle on Monday evening in an effort to defuse tensions. However, demonstrations continued after his speech, with participants maintaining their demands for improved compensation and living conditions.
Efforts by journalists to obtain further comments from regional officials on the ongoing situation were unsuccessful as of Tuesday afternoon.
Horn News Hub has confirmed that roads in Mekelle and Agula remain closed due to the continuing protests.
