By John Ikani
The Government of Ethiopia has announced that it will free several rebel leaders as it marks Orthodox Christmas.
Many Orthodox Christians annually celebrate Christmas Day on or near January 7 to remember Jesus Christ’s birth.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed who announced the move on Friday, said it was geared towards achieving national reconciliation and promoting “unity”.
A statement released by Government Communications Service went on to explain that the purpose of the move “is to pave the way for a lasting solution to Ethiopia’s problems in a peaceful, non-violent way… especially with the aim of making the all-inclusive national dialogue a success.”
There was no mention of further negotiations with TPLF rebels, who last month said they were ready to enter talks if the Government released political prisoners and ended a seven-month siege of Tigray that has cut off food and medicine to the region.
The surprise pardon comes amid a lull in the 15-month long conflict, which has recently seen Government forces retake and capture several rebel-held towns.
According to state media, among the prominent TPLF figures being released under the amnesty are Sibhat Nega, a founding member of the party, and Abay Weldu, a former President of the Tigray region.
Leading figures from several other ethnic groups have also been released.
The Tigray conflict broke out in November 2020 after Mr Abiy ordered a military offensive against regional forces in the area. He said he did so in response to an attack on a military base housing government troops there.
The escalation came after months of feuding between Mr Abiy’s Government and leaders of the TPLF.
