ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Ethiopia has dissolved the interim administration of the Tigray Regional State and appointed a new federal interim leadership to govern the conflict-affected region for six months, with a mandate to restore stability and prepare for elections.
The decision followed a resolution by the House of Federation, which suspended the existing interim administration under Article 62(9) of the Ethiopian Constitution and Proclamation No. 359/1995.
The federal government said efforts to resolve the conflict through the Pretoria Agreement had been frustrated, undermining attempts to secure lasting peace in the northern region.
The newly appointed administration is expected to restore disrupted government structures, maintain public services and rehabilitate infrastructure damaged during the conflict.
New Leadership Given Six-Month Mandate
The interim administration has been tasked with facilitating the return of displaced residents, coordinating with federal defence, police and security institutions, and working with Tigray’s security forces to stabilise the region.
Its responsibilities also include encouraging combatants to disarm and return to civilian life, supporting reconstruction and restoring public confidence in government institutions.
A statement shared by the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday said the people of Tigray needed to emerge from conflict, reclaim peace and exercise their right to self-administration while addressing years of development setbacks.
Within six months, the new leadership is expected to establish a stable political environment and organise free and fair elections to return Tigray to a regular position within Ethiopia’s federal system.
Officials Appointed To Key Positions
The new administration includes Asefa Abrahaga Hagos, who has been appointed chief administrator and head of public service.
Tewodros Aregeay W/Selassie will oversee the economy and reconstruction portfolio, while Brigadier General Gebretensae Whatna Haylu has been appointed chief of security and peace.
Redai Halefom W/Selassie will head politics and mass mobilisation, while Shishay Amare has been named mayor of Mekelle, Tigray’s regional capital.
The administration will also coordinate public communications and take measures aimed at ensuring the next elections are peaceful and competitive.
Federal Government To Oversee Administration
The federal government said the interim leadership would operate under its directives and guidance, with support, policy direction and oversight provided throughout its six-month mandate.
“For all the challenges they face, the federal government will provide them with guidance, policy, support, and oversight,” the statement said.
The appointment marks a new phase in Ethiopia’s efforts to stabilise Tigray, where the legacy of conflict continues to pose challenges for governance, public services, reconstruction and the return of displaced residents.
