TPLF loses support after Tigray offensive falters
The Tigray People's Liberation Front has retreated to hills after its latest offensive against federal forces was repelled.
The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) is facing backlash from former supporters in northern Ethiopia following its recent offensive. The TPLF's attempt to overthrow federal leaders in late September was quickly repelled by pro-government forces using drones. The party has since retreated to the hills of the Tigray region, occasionally attacking federal troops.
Tsegay Girmay, a 32-year-old former TPLF supporter from Adigrat, expressed satisfaction that the movement is "on the verge of disappearing." Girmay joined the TPLF in 2020, angered by atrocities during the Tigray war. Federal authorities took formal control of Tigray in October, establishing a six-month interim administration and promising elections.
Girmay stated that the TPLF has "not the slightest chance of returning to power," citing the current situation on the ground. Eritrea, which had previously fought alongside Ethiopia against the TPLF, has since fallen out with its neighbour. The TPLF is now confined to occasional attacks from the Tigrayan hills.
Why it mattersTigrayan residents like Tsegay Girmay are losing faith in the TPLF's ability to regain power after their recent military setbacks.