Tsilal Civil Society of Western Tigray (TCSWT) has issued a statement condemning H.E Olusegun Obasanjo’s recent remarks on allowing the forcefully occupied territories of Tigray remain under a “neutral body.” The civil society asserts that this statement significantly strays from the Pretoria Peace Agreement, which requires the reinstatement of constitutional order, disregards the suffering of millions of Tigrayans, and reflects a clear lack of concern.
TCSWT denounces Obasanjo’s remark reiterating that the statement doesn’t consider nearly half of Tigrayans that were and are still under the harsh occupation of Amhara militias and Eritrean troops. “These forces have committed documented atrocities, amounting to ethnic cleansing and genocide, preventing the return of displaced Tigrayans to their homes of origin.” The statement reads.
TCSWT notes that the one considered “netural body” in Obassanjo’s remark can’t be deemed “‘neutral’ in any case.” The civil society further argues that appointing the Ethiopian government as a sole overseer is not only irrational but also contradicts with the core principles of the agreement. “Suggesting this party as neutral body to solely oversee the situation is not illogical but against the Pretoria_CoHA core principles, which clearly demands the withdrawal of all occupying forces and the restoration of constitutional order in Tigray.” the statement notes.
TCSWT strongly expresses deep concern over Obasanjo’s vague reference to a “neutral body.” The civil society firmly rejects his remark and calls for its immediate retraction and clarification.
TCSWT concludes it’s statement urging the U.S., EU, AU—particularly the Monitoring, Verification, and Compliance Mechanism—and the broader international community to pressure all parties for the full and prompt implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
