Ethiopia establishes interim administration in Tigray

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has appointed a caretaker government for the northern Tigray region to serve a six-month mandate. The interim administration aims to stabilize the political situation, repair infrastructure, facilitate the return of displaced residents, and prepare the region for free elections.

The move follows a recent offensive by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) against the federal government, which resulted in the retreat of rebel forces and the loss of major cities, including the regional capital, Mekelle. Shishay Amare, the newly appointed mayor of Mekelle, stated that the administration's role is to ensure peace and stability to create the necessary conditions for elections within the six-month timeframe.

The region continues to face significant humanitarian challenges, with approximately 750,000 people currently displaced. The interim government also intends to focus on restarting economic activities and ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid. Tensions remain high following reports of involvement by neighboring Eritrea, as well as accusations involving Egypt and Sudan, though those nations have denied supporting the rebel alliance.