ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Ethiopia’s federal government has established a six-month caretaker administration in the northern Tigray region as hundreds of former combatants register for a programme aimed at helping them return to civilian life following renewed fighting.
Announced on Friday, October 16, 2026, the interim administration is expected to restore public services, rebuild damaged infrastructure, assist displaced residents returning home and prepare the region for elections within six months.
The move follows renewed clashes between federal government-aligned forces and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which withdrew from the regional capital, Mekelle, after government-allied fighters entered the city on October 4.
Former Fighters Seek a Fresh Start
At the Tigray Martyrs’ Memorial Monument in Mekelle, former fighters have begun registering for a reintegration programme designed to help them transition to civilian life.
Registration began on Wednesday, with former combatants expressing a desire to avoid returning to the battlefield and instead focus on rebuilding their lives and supporting their families.
One former fighter, Filmon Gebreselassie, said he had disarmed following the 2022 peace agreement but could not complete registration before the reintegration programme was suspended amid renewed tensions.
Some former fighters have also expressed concerns about possible retaliation. The TPLF recently described people cooperating with the federal government as traitors, raising fears among those seeking to reintegrate into civilian society.
Renewed Conflict Threatens Peace Agreement
The caretaker administration comes as violence threatens to undermine the peace agreement signed in 2022, which ended a devastating two-year war in Tigray.
The conflict resulted in widespread destruction and a severe humanitarian crisis. Thousands of families remain displaced, while damaged infrastructure and limited access to essential services continue to complicate recovery efforts.
The renewed fighting has also heightened tensions between Ethiopia and neighbouring Eritrea. Ethiopia has accused Eritrean troops of occupying parts of its territory and supporting forces opposing the federal government. Eritrea has denied supporting the rebel alliance and has condemned Ethiopia’s statements.
Elections and Stability Remain Key Challenges
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government says the temporary administration will create conditions for regional elections and restore stability.
However, significant challenges remain, including the reintegration of former combatants, the return of displaced communities and the risk of further violence.
International observers have also expressed concern that renewed hostilities could spread beyond Tigray and destabilise the wider Horn of Africa.
Whether the caretaker government can restore lasting peace will depend on security conditions, political cooperation and progress toward implementing the 2022 peace agreement.
Swifteradio.com
