ADDIS ABABA, Oct 17 (Horndiplomat) — Ethiopia’s federal government has established a new six-month caretaker administration in the northern Tigray region following a decision to dissolve the previous interim regional government, the Office of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced on Saturday.
According to the statement, the House of Federation made the decision in accordance with Article 62(9) of Ethiopia’s Constitution and Article 14(2)(l) of Proclamation No. 359/1995.
The government said the measure was intended to strengthen peace and stability, restore public services, accelerate reconstruction and prepare Tigray for regional elections.
The statement said repeated efforts to address challenges in the region through the Pretoria Peace Agreement had encountered obstacles, making further administrative measures necessary to restore stability and normal governance.
The federal government said the new administration would focus on ensuring that the people of Tigray benefit from lasting peace, effective self-administration and development.
Government Appoints New Tigray Leadership
The Office of the Prime Minister announced the appointment of five senior officials to oversee the six-month transitional period.
Assefa Abrahaga Hagos was appointed chief administrator and head of public service, while Dr. Tewodros Aregeay W/Selassie was named head of economy and reconstruction.
Brigadier General Gebretensae Whatna Haylu was appointed head of security and peace, and Redai Halefom W/Selassie will oversee politics and public mobilisation.
Dr. Shishay Amare was appointed mayor of Mekelle, the capital of Tigray.
The federal government said it would provide the appointed officials with policy guidance, institutional support and oversight to ensure the administration fulfils its responsibilities.
Six-Month Plan Focuses on Stability and Development
The new administration has been assigned several priorities, including restoring peace and security, rebuilding government institutions and ensuring the continued delivery of essential public services.
It will also work to rehabilitate infrastructure damaged during the conflict, facilitate the return of displaced communities and support economic recovery and reconstruction across the region.
The government said the administration would coordinate with federal defence, police and security institutions, as well as regional security forces, to maintain stability at all administrative levels.
Efforts will also focus on encouraging armed individuals to return to civilian life and participate in rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.
Another central responsibility will be establishing the political and security conditions necessary to hold free, fair and competitive regional elections within six months.
The administration will also oversee public communications, strengthen community confidence and facilitate preparations for development and reconstruction activities.
Federal Government Reaffirms Commitment to Tigray
The Office of the Prime Minister said the caretaker administration must carry out its responsibilities in accordance with Ethiopia’s national interests, territorial integrity and the fundamental interests of the people of Tigray.
The government emphasised that restoring regular public services, strengthening regional institutions and preparing for democratic elections would remain priorities throughout the transitional period.
The new administration will operate under the direction and guidance of the federal government until an elected regional government assumes office.
Addis Ababa said it would continue providing the necessary policy direction, technical assistance and institutional support to help the administration fulfil its mandate and restore normal governance in Tigray.
