As we delve deeper into the quagmire of Tigray’s political impasse, the reality on the ground indicates a troubling intensification of divisions rather than a progression towards resolution. The people of Tigray, burdened by years of war, displacement, and uncertainty, deserve more than political stagnation. In light of this, I propose an immediate restructuring of the Tigray Interim Regional Administration (TIRA) to address the current political deadlock and restore faith in the region’s governance.

Proposed Restructuring of TIRA

1. Inclusion of Proportional Representation: To ensure a fair and inclusive governance model, political parties that were excluded from the current cabinet must be given proportional membership. This inclusion would provide a platform for diverse voices and foster an environment where collective interests are prioritized over partisan agendas.
2. Retaining Revoked Members as Independent Representatives: TIRA members whose representation through the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has been revoked should be allowed to continue as independent members or as representatives of the federal government. Their perspectives, which often align with federal policies, can serve as a balancing force within the administration.
3. Maintaining TPLF’s Majority While Adding New Members: The TPLF should nominate new members to maintain its majority in the cabinet. This measure would uphold the political integrity of the party while accommodating the restructuring process.
4. Addressing Key Regional Questions with Majority Consensus: The people of Tigray are united in demanding answers to critical issues, including:
   • The restoration of Tigray’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
   • The resettlement of displaced Tigrayans with safety and security.
   These issues demand decisions with a broad consensus within the TIRA cabinet. To mitigate the dominance of any single party, a two-thirds majority should be mandated for decisions of significant consequence. This approach would balance decision-making power and ensure that resolutions reflect a collective will rather than unilateral directives.

The Unnecessary Advisory Council

The intent by the existing TIRA to establish an Advisory Council (AC) is unnecessary and counterproductive. The urgency of addressing key issues—such as restoring Tigray’s sovereignty, ensuring its territorial integrity, and facilitating the safe return of displaced people—renders the formation of an AC redundant. These are immediate priorities that demand direct action and cannot be deferred through the creation of additional bureaucratic structures.

Once Tigray’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are firmly established and displaced people have safely returned to their homes, TIRA’s focus should shift to facilitating an election. This election will enable the people of Tigray to elect their government democratically. Any attempt to establish an AC or similar entity at this juncture is an excuse to prolong the suffering of the people and exacerbate Tigray’s existential threats.

The Path Forward

The above measures offer a straightforward yet transformative path towards resolving Tigray’s political deadlock. Implementing this restructuring will create a more inclusive governance structure and safeguard the region against external interference and chaos. It is essential to recognize that these steps are not a concession but a commitment to a stronger, unified Tigray.

If Tigray is truly our agenda, then the time to act is now. The region’s future depends on our ability to make bold and inclusive decisions that reflect the aspirations of its people. Anything less risks prolonging the suffering of a population that has already endured far too much.