Movement for Change in Tigray Launched, Calls for Inclusive Governance and TPLF Removal
ADDIS ABABA — A coalition of political parties and senior figures on Saturday announced the formation of the Movement for Change in Tigray, unveiling a manifesto calling for inclusive governance, full implementation of the Pretoria peace agreement, preparations for democratic elections, and the removal of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) from power.
The movement was founded by the National Council of Greater Tigray (Baytona), Arena Tigray for Democracy and Sovereignty (Arena), Tigray Democratic Solidarity (Simret), Renaissance of SebeA Enderta, alongside Lt. Gen. Tsadkan Gebretensae, Maj. Gen. Abebe Teklehaimanot, and Ato Assefa Abraha Hagos.
The launch follows the signing of the Pretoria Agreement in November 2022, which ended two years of conflict in northern Ethiopia and established the Interim Regional Administration of Tigray (IRAT). The movement argues that IRAT has not met its objectives, citing internal political divisions and interference by senior military commanders.
The manifesto alleges that a faction within the TPLF consolidated power in coordination with military figures, weakening governance and institutional reform, and that political competition in Tigray has shifted toward factional confrontation. Organizers said that the TPLF’s continued dominance is a major obstacle to stability, and that its removal is necessary for Tigray, Ethiopia, and the wider Horn of Africa.
The movement calls for an all-inclusive interim administration at regional and local levels, activation of an interim legislative council, formation of a merit-based cabinet, strengthening of local governance, and preparation for free and fair elections. It is open to political parties, civil society organizations, professional associations, and individuals committed to peaceful political struggle, democratic transition, and protection of Tigray’s political and territorial rights.
The launch event in Addis Ababa’s Cherkos sub-city was attended by senior officials, members of the Tigrayan community, and civil society representatives. Speaking at the launch event, Lt. Gen. Tsadkan Gebretensae stressed that the movement’s objective is to prevent Tigray from becoming a battlefield again. However, he added that if war becomes inevitable, it must be “low cost and short,” reflecting growing concern over escalating political tensions.
Getachew Reda, Advisor to the Prime Minister on East African Affairs, described the TPLF leadership as a factional group that does not represent the broader population of Tigray and warned that attempts to draw the region into a proxy conflict could undermine the fragile peace achieved since 2022.
During the forum, participants raised questions about reports of Tigrayans being arrested on the basis of ethnicity. Atakiliti Hailesilasie from the Renaissance of SebeA Enderta (Party Tinsanea 70 Enderta) responded, stating that no one is being arrested solely for being Tigrayan, except in cases where legal violations have occurred. He acknowledged that such incidents may occasionally happen but said they are being addressed through discussions with federal security institutions and the Addis Ababa city administration.
The formation of the movement reflects growing dissatisfaction with the pace and direction of post-war reforms in Tigray and signals a push for broad-based participation in shaping the region’s political future. Organizers emphasized that their efforts will focus on peaceful and legal advocacy, strengthening governance structures, and mobilizing public support to establish a representative and accountable administration.
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