House removes TPLF from its terrorism blacklist

Addis Ababa, March 22, 2023 (FBC) – The House of Peoples Representatives of Ethiopia, in its extraordinary session, has decided with majority voice to remove Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) from its terrorism blacklist.

Government Whip at the House, Tesfaye Belgige highlighted the significance of revocation of the designation of TPLF as a terrorist organization in supporting the efforts underway to bring lasting peace in Ethiopia.

Some requested for reconsideration of the cancelation the label calling the decision untimely, and raising issues of clarifications about TPLF’s willingness to become a total peaceful actor in the process.

Responding to the queries raised by the parliamentarians, the Justice Minister, Gedion Themotiwos stated that TPLF has been taking positive measures that have served as a ground for the revocation of its designation.

Recalling the conditions that have forced the government to designate TPLF as a terrorist organization such as disobedience to the constitutional order and unlawful elections, its attack on the Northern Command of the ENDF, the Justice Minister said that the group has been contributing to the national efforts for peace.

Themotiwos cited a willingness to disarm and demobilize its combatants as the positive steps taken by the TPLF based on the Pretoria Peace Agreement.

The delisting is a prerequisite to the TPLF’s participation in the establishment of the interim administration, the house said.

He said accountability and related issues will be addressed based on the transitional justice system put in place in line with the ongoing peace process.

The House of Peoples Representatives unanimously endorsed the decision by the Council of Ministers to designate Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) as a terrorist organization on 6, May 2021.