dw.com
Tigray Power Struggle Threatens Renewed Conflict
Two years after the Ethiopia-Tigray peace accords, tensions are high in Tigray as a power struggle within the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) threatens to reignite conflict, impacting the lives of ordinary citizens and potentially destabilizing the entire Horn of Africa.
- What are the immediate consequences of the internal power struggle within the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) on the lives of ordinary Tigrayans?
- People are worried," says Kiflom Abraha, a young man living in Mekelle, Tigray's state capital. The cost of living has skyrocketed, and lines at banks are long as people try to withdraw money. Fear of renewed conflict is widespread, echoing the 2020-2022 war that displaced many.
- How did the 2020-2022 war between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF, and the subsequent peace agreement, contribute to the current instability in Tigray?
- A power struggle within Tigray's ruling elite, between Getachew Reda and Debretsion Gebremichael, has created instability. This internal conflict is exacerbating existing tensions stemming from the 2020-2022 war and the broader political landscape of the Horn of Africa. The situation is further complicated by external actors, including Eritrea and Middle Eastern powers, who are supporting different factions.
- What are the potential regional and international implications of escalating conflict in Tigray, considering the involvement of external actors and existing regional tensions?
- The renewed conflict risk in Tigray has significant regional implications, impacting the already volatile Horn of Africa. Neighboring Eritrea's potential involvement and the influence of Middle Eastern powers like Saudi Arabia and the UAE could escalate the conflict, potentially destabilizing the entire region. The ongoing crises in Sudan and tensions between Somalia and Somaliland further complicate the situation.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the internal divisions within the TPLF and the resulting instability, potentially creating an impression that the conflict is primarily an internal Tigrayan affair, neglecting the broader regional and international dynamics at play. The headline and introduction focus on the looming threat of renewed war and the divisions within Tigray, shaping the narrative to emphasize conflict and instability rather than exploring potential avenues for peace and reconciliation. The use of quotes from individuals expressing fear and concern reinforces this emphasis on instability.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, employing journalistic objectivity, though phrases like "fierce war" and "ugly" introduce subtle evaluative tones that should be revised for greater neutrality. Terms such as "power play" and "rocked Tigray" could be replaced with less charged alternatives, such as "internal power struggle" and "significantly impacted Tigray".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the internal conflict within Tigray and the actions of key political figures. However, it gives less detailed analysis of the perspectives of ordinary Tigrayan citizens beyond a few quoted concerns about economic hardship and fear. The broader regional context, while touched upon (Sudan, Somalia/Somaliland), could have benefited from more in-depth exploration of how these conflicts interplay with the Tigray situation. The article also omits detailed discussion of the role of international actors beyond a mention of Saudi Arabia and the UAE, potentially limiting a complete understanding of the multifaceted nature of the conflict.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified picture of the conflict as a power struggle between two factions within the TPLF, and between the TPLF and the Ethiopian government. While this is a significant aspect, it downplays the complexity of the situation, which involves numerous actors with diverse interests and motivations. The presentation of the conflict almost exclusively through the lens of the Tigrayan power struggle oversimplifies the multitude of underlying causes and potential solutions.
Gender Bias
The article includes both male and female voices, but there is an imbalance in the prominence of male perspectives, especially concerning political analysis. While Nigisti Garede provides valuable insight, the majority of political analysis and commentary comes from male sources. This is not necessarily bias, but it warrants attention to ensure equitable representation in future reporting.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the resurgence of conflict and instability in Tigray, Ethiopia, due to internal power struggles and the potential for further escalation. This undermines peace, justice, and the rule of law, hindering progress towards building strong and inclusive institutions. The absence of law and order, the fear among civilians, and the potential for renewed conflict directly contradict the goals of SDG 16.