The Tigray Interim Administration has passed a new proclamation aimed at addressing the welfare concerns of TDF soldiers, as demonstrations by combatants across Tigray entered its fifth consecutive day.
The new law, approved by the regional cabinet, is said to ensure the benefits and welfare of TDF members. In a statement issued today, the Interim Administration Cabinet said it has fully approved the proposed proclamation that is said to address issues related to basic needs, medical care, a living place, better services in governmental and non-governmental offices, education and training, and other related issues, according to the statement issued by the office of Interim administration’s President.
The Office of the President said the newly passed law has been going through a series of research and consultation phases with stakeholders before its was approved by the cabinet.
The announcement from the Interim administration comes amid widespread demonstrations by TDF soldiers, who have been protesting since Monday in the regional capital, Mekelle and other major towns across Tigray. The soldiers are demanding improved living conditions, higher pay, and stronger welfare support, accusing officials of offering “empty promises” without concrete action.
The protests, which began in Mekelle earlier in the week, have led to road blockades along major routes in Tigray, disrupting traffic and trade. Observers say, the protests reflect growing impatience with the slow pace of the implementation of the Pretoria agreement, slow recovery & reconstruction efforts and the unfulfilled promises of the post-war period.
For the Interim Administration, the approval of the new proclamation may help ease tensions, but many agree that the government’s credibility now depends on swift and visible action.