The Enduring Bond Between the TPLF and the People of Tigray: A Legacy of Unity

TPLF at 50: Honoring Tigray’s Struggle for Freedom, Equality, and Self-Determination

The 11th February Celebration Committee of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) marks the 50th anniversary of its foundation this year. This occasion commemorates a legacy of resilience, struggle, and unwavering commitment to the rights and dignity of the people of Tigray. This milestone is not merely a commemoration of history but a reaffirmation of the enduring spirit of a people who have faced immense challenges yet remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, equality, and self-determination.

For a period of five decades, the people of Tigray have demonstrated remarkable fortitude in the face of unimaginable adversity, including genocidal wars, systemic oppression, and attempts to erase their identity and culture. The 11th February commemoration serves as a poignant reminder of their unwavering resolve and collective determination to forge a future characterised by the principles of freedom, equality, and respect for human rights. The day is a commemoration of the sacrifices made by those who fought for these ideals, whilst also serving as a source of inspiration for future generations to perpetuate this legacy.

This anniversary is not merely a reflection on the past; it serves as a clarion call for immediate action and a beacon for a future vision. It serves as a reminder of the values that have sustained the Tigrayan people through decades of struggle: unity, courage, and an unshakable belief in justice. As the global community observes their resilience, it is also called upon to extend support to their ongoing quest for peace, accountability, and self-determination.

The 50th anniversary of the 11th February Celebration Committee serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit of the Tigrayan people and a resounding affirmation that their struggle for justice and dignity remains steadfast. It is a moment to honour their legacy and recommit to the principles of equality, freedom, and human rights that resonate not only in Tigray but across the globe.

A Legacy of Struggle and Resilience

For a period exceeding five decades, the populace of Tigray has suffered innumerable hardships, including genocidal wars and systemic oppression. Their history is characterised by profound suffering, yet their spirit remains unbroken. The Tigrayan people have demonstrated an unwavering resilience, a quality that has been forged through the crucible of adversity. This resilience is deeply rooted in their unwavering commitment to defending their identity, culture, and rights against both external and internal forces that have sought to dominate and erase them.

The 11th February commemoration serves as a poignant symbol of this unyielding spirit. This commemoration marks the day in 1975 when the people of Tigray took up arms in a fight for democratic rights, equality, and freedom from oppression. This decision was not taken lightly; it was a response born out of necessity after peaceful avenues for justice and equality were systematically blocked. The people of Tigray have a long and distinguished history of fighting against their oppression and suffering.

This legacy of resistance encompasses not only armed struggle but also the preservation of dignity, culture, and self-determination. The Tigray people have repeatedly exhibited an exceptional capacity for endurance, maintaining their commitment to justice in the face of adversity. Their resilience serves as a source of inspiration, providing hope to generations that the struggle for a future in which their rights are recognised, their voices are heard, and their humanity is acknowledged will continue.

The 11th February commemoration signifies more than a mere historical marker; it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the unyielding determination of a people who steadfastly uphold their identity and their aspirations for freedom. It is a day to honour the past while recommitting to the ongoing struggle for equality, justice, and peace.

The Pretoria Agreement: Progress and Unfulfilled Promises

The Pretoria Agreement, which was signed in 2022, represented a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to bring an end to the genocidal war in Tigray and usher in a period of relative peace. Despite being lauded as a pivotal step towards curbing the ongoing bloodshed, significant challenges persist, thereby casting doubt on the feasibility of fulfilling the promises made.

A plethora of critical issues have yet to be addressed. Displaced Tigrayans continue to endure appalling conditions in makeshift camps, facing hunger, disease, and the constant threat of death. For those living under occupation, life remains a daily struggle against torture, arbitrary arrests, and the systematic suppression of their cultural identity. Despite the explicit provisions of the agreement, the withdrawal of invading forces from Tigrayan territory has not been fully implemented, leaving communities vulnerable and traumatised. Furthermore, reconstruction efforts, which are imperative for the rehabilitation of the war-torn region, have yet to be initiated, resulting in the people of Tigray languishing in a state of limbo.

Notwithstanding these daunting challenges, the people of Tigray remain steadfast in their commitment to peaceful and political means of resolving their plight. Despite the atrocities they have suffered, the people of Tigray continue to demand peaceful resolution of their issues. Their resilience in the face of unimaginable suffering underscores their unwavering belief in the principles of justice, sovereignty, and self-determination. They continue to demand the full implementation of the Pretoria Agreement, emphasising that genuine peace cannot be achieved without accountability, reparations, and respect for human rights.

The Pretoria Agreement is a case study in the dynamics of hope and unfulfilled promises. While it succeeded in bringing an end to active hostilities, its failure to address the root causes of the conflict – such as systemic marginalization, occupation, and cultural erasure – leaves the door open for future instability. For the populace of Tigray, the agreement is not merely a document; it is a symbol of their unrelenting struggle for dignity, equality, and justice. The ongoing calls for its implementation by the people of Tigray reflect their determination to secure a future where their rights are respected and their humanity affirmed.

The ongoing suffering and unresolved grievances experienced by the people of Tigray have led to a united demand for lasting peace and meaningful change. This struggle underscores the imperative for agreements to be backed up by substantive actions, ensuring that the pledges made translate into tangible enhancements in the lives of those adversely affected by armed conflict.

February 11: A Day of Renewal and Commitment

The 11th February celebration is not merely a historical commemoration; it is a day of renewal and recommitment to the enduring goals of the struggle for justice, equality, and self-determination. The act of commemorating February 11 does not entail mere retelling of the past; rather, it serves as a poignant reminder of the lessons learned and the ongoing journey towards achieving these fundamental principles. It is a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by countless individuals, the progress achieved through decades of resilience, and the challenges that still lie ahead.

Notably, this observance persists even in times of profound adversity, underscoring the tenacious spirit of the Tigrayan populace. Notably, in 1977, during one of the region’s most devastating famines, Tigrayans marked the occasion by harvesting grain in both Tigray and Sudan, symbolising their determination to persevere despite unimaginable hardship. Moreover, in 2013, despite the ongoing war and suffering, the people of Tigray continued to honour this day, thereby demonstrating their unwavering bond with the TPLF and their steadfast commitment to the principles that were enshrined in the struggle of February 11.

For the populace of Tigray, February 11 is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a testament to their collective resolve and an affirmation of their identity. It serves as a reminder of the values that have sustained them through decades of adversity: unity, courage, and an unshakable belief in the possibility of a better future. The commemoration unites generations, fostering a sense of shared history and purpose. It serves as a unifying force, bridging the generational gap and ensuring the continuity of the struggle’s legacy from the past to the present and into the future.

On the occasion of 11 February, the populace of Tigray renew their commitment to the principles of liberty, justice, and self-determination. They draw strength from the past while looking toward the future, determined to overcome the challenges that remain. This day serves as a potent symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a world where their rights are respected, their culture is preserved, and their humanity is acknowledged.

Historical analysis demonstrates that no external force, be it famine, war, or oppression, has succeeded in diminishing the profound significance of February 11 in the collective consciousness of the Tigrayan people. This day is a testament to their indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment to forging a more equitable and prosperous future for posterity.

The Unbreakable Bond Between the People and the TPLF

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) continues to be a pivotal actor in the struggle for the rights, dignity, and self-determination of the people of Tigray. Notwithstanding the criticism it faces and the considerable challenges it has faced, the TPLF continues to be regarded by the populace as a vital leader in their quest for justice and freedom. The populace of Tigray still desires that all its problems be solved under the leadership of the TPLF. This profound and unwavering trust is deeply rooted in the shared history and sacrifices that have defined the relationship between the TPLF and the people of Tigray.

For a period of over five decades, the TPLF has stood in solidarity with the people of Tigray, engaging in combat against forms of oppression, marginalisation, and attempts at the eradication of their identity. Collectively, they have confronted genocidal wars, famines, and systemic injustices. This profound connection, characterised by mutual sacrifice and a shared aspiration for a better future, has been instrumental in fostering an unbreakable bond between the TPLF and the people of Tigray. The populace perceives the TPLF not solely as a political entity, but as a symbol of their resilience and determination to reclaim their dignity and rights.

In turn, the TPLF acknowledges its responsibilities and the need for self-reflection. The TPLF seeks to address, criticise and rebuke the various problems it perceives itself to be afflicted by. This commitment to self-critique is indicative of the TPLF’s dedication to serving the people and achieving the long-term goals of the February 11 struggle. This commitment is indicative of the TPLF’s recognition of its role not as an infallible authority, but as a collaborator in the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

The unique connection between the TPLF and the people of Tigray is underscored by this dynamic of accountability. Even though detractors may cast aspersions on the methods or decisions employed by the party, the bond between the TPLF and the Tigrayan people remain unassailable. For the populace, the TPLF signifies more than a mere political organisation; it personifies their aspirations, their sacrifices, and their unwavering hope for a future free from oppression.

As the struggle continues, this partnership serves as a foundation for resilience and progress. The TPLF’s acknowledgement of its imperfections, coupled with its steadfast dedication to the people’s cause, serves to reinforce its legitimacy as a leader in the fight for justice. The joint efforts of the TPLF and the populace of Tigray are thus unified in their quest for the principles enshrined in the legacy of February 11: namely, freedom, equality, and self-determination.

In a world where trust is often fragile, the bond between the TPLF and the people of Tigray stands as a testament to the power of shared struggle and collective purpose. This unity continues to drive their struggle for a brighter, more equitable future.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Justice and Peace

As the 50th anniversary of the 11th February Celebration Committee is commemorated, the people of Tigray maintain their unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and self-determination. The struggle of the Tigrayan people is not merely a local or regional issue; it is a universal call for the principles of equality, freedom, and human rights that resonate across borders and generations. The Tigrayan people’s resilience is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the unrelenting pursuit of dignity and justice.

The international community is obliged to play a critical role in ensuring that the promises made in the Pretoria Agreement are fully implemented. This necessitates the complete withdrawal of occupying forces from Tigrayan territory, the initiation of meaningful political negotiations, and the provision of resources for reconstruction and healing. The Tigrayan people have exhibited an unwavering commitment to their dignity, identity, and aspirations, even in the face of immense suffering. Their persistent demands for accountability and justice underscore an imperative for a comprehensive, globally coordinated response that prioritises human rights and the establishment of sustainable peace.

The commemoration of February 11th is not merely a remembrance of the past; it serves as a clarion call for the future. It symbolises the sacrifices made by those who came before, and the aspirations of those who will follow. For the populace of Tigray, this day serves as a poignant reminder that their struggle is yet to reach its conclusion, while concurrently providing a source of strength and inspiration. The day serves to underscore their unwavering commitment to the establishment of a future characterised by principles of justice, equality, and peace; a future in which their voices are heard, their rights are respected, and their humanity is affirmed.

The Tigrayan people’s resilience serves as a source of inspiration, providing hope not only for themselves, but also for those who share the belief in the potential for a more equitable and sustainable world. Their commitment to honouring the legacy of February 11 while persistently advocating for their rights exemplifies the potency of solidarity, fortitude, and optimism. As they contemplate the future, the people of Tigray maintain a steadfast conviction that justice and peace are not merely ideals but attainable realities.

In commemorating this momentous occasion, it is incumbent upon the global community to acknowledge the fortitude and resilience of the Tigrayan people and to stand in solidarity with their pursuit of justice. The struggle of the Tigrayan people serves as a poignant reminder that the universal quest for freedom and dignity remains an imperative, and that the principles of equality and human rights must be upheld in all corners of the globe. The 50th anniversary of February 11th serves not only as a moment to reflect on the past, but also as a clarion call to action, demanding the forging of a brighter, more equitable future.

Joram Jojo