We are writing in response to the article concerning the Tigrai Democratic Solidarity (Simret) party, published in The Reporter English’s Saturday, June 21, 2025 edition. We appreciate the contributor for initiating a valuable public dialogue and welcome the opportunity to address the claims and concerns raised. However, it is important to clarify Simret’s identity, core objectives, and guiding principles in order to set the record straight.
The article, “TPLF’s splinter party: A force for change or a federal Trojan horse in Tigrai,” while acknowledging the urgent need for political recalibration and swift socio-political move in Tigrai, unfortunately, bases some of its assertions on misinterpretations and inaccurate premises regarding Simret. We will unravel the fundamental claims and thereby aim to provide a comprehensive rebuttal to these points.
Simret: An Independent Political Party for Change
First and foremost, Tigrai Democratic Solidarity (Simret) is a newly established independent political party committed to bringing about fundamental, peaceful, and civil change in Tigrai. In our struggle, we unequivocally adhere to peaceful means, ensure purely civil movements, promptly abiding by democratic principles and the rule of law. We are not, and will never be, affiliated with any military establishment of any form. This may include what the contributor cited the Tigrai Peace Force, the Tigrai Defense Force (TDF), or any other armed group for that matter. We are a purely political party that strongly condemns any form of violence as a solution to curb or suppress the plurality of ideas. Conversely, we appreciate and advocate for political means to address any differences.
Disentangling from Military Affiliations: A Core Principle
The article raises concerns about Simret’s alleged “effort to be the sole political leader of the newly formed Tigrai Peace Force” and the “attempting to fuse party and military leadership.” This assertion is fundamentally flawed and unfounded, which intentionally misrepresents Simret’s core values.
Simret unequivocally states that it has no organizational or command affiliation with any military force. While we intend to support any organizing entity serving the fundamental interests of the people of Tigrai, we also appreciate these organized entities to discharge their responsibilities under democratic civilian oversight. During our inaugural press conference at the Sheraton Addis, our spokesperson, Redae Halefom, previously affirmed that this endorsement is for the just cause behind its establishment. Simret is strongly at odds with any entity that intends to control any military force or clique by a political party of any kind.
Distance from TDF: The article correctly notes that the TDF’s evolution into what it describes as the “political wing of the TPLF.” This observation highlights the very issue which Simret seeks to rectify the ongoing practices by the outlawed TPLF faction. We believe that for Tigrai to truly move forward, there must be a clear and unwavering separation between political parties and military forces. The militarization of political parties, as historically demonstrated, is antithetical to democratic principles which in turn breeds authoritarianism. Simret is committed to a clean break from this erroneous outfit. Our distance from the TDF, therefore, is not a matter of disloyalty to Tigrai, but a principled stance for a democratic future where the military serves the state and its people, not a political party. There should demilitarized politics and depoliticized military. This is one of Simret’s basic political pillars.
Civil and Peaceful Struggle: Simret’s commitment to civil and peaceful struggle is second to none. Our focus is on political discourse, policy formulation, public engagement, and democratic participation. We believe that sustainable change in Tigrai can only be achieved through healthy political processes, dialogue, and institution-building, not through armed means or manipulation of security apparatus for partisan gain.
Addressing the “Federal Trojan Horse” and Prosperity Party Allegations
The article allegedly accuses Simret as becoming a “Trojan horse for PM Abiy Ahmed’s regime disguised as a reform movement” and it’s supposed association with the Prosperity Party. These claims are not only unfounded but also lack substantiation. They are nothing but blackmailing.
Independence from Prosperity Party: Simret is an independent political party that operates based on its own principles, ideology, and the aspires to ensure strategic interests of the people of Tigrai. Our engagement with any federal authority, when necessary, is solely for the purpose of advocating the legitimate rights and interests of Tigrai and facilitating dialogue for peace and stability. No grain of truth is found in due course that portrays Simret as being an agent or proxy entity of the Prosperity Party.
Strategic Engagement vs. Propaganda Partner: The article allegedly claims that Simret is becoming a “propaganda partner” for the federal government. Simret understands the delicate balance is badly required in post-conflict political landscapes. Our approach is one of strategic engagement, acknowledging that Tigrai does not operate in a vacuum. Diplomacy and negotiation are indispensable tools for resolving outstanding issues and securing the future of Tigrai. However, this engagement is always guided by the core interests of the people of Tigrai, the right to self-determination, administrative autonomy and dignity. Any insinuation that our leadership echoes federal narratives at the expense of Tigrai’s core interests is nothing but a misrepresentation of our fundamental stance.
The Role of Leadership and Getachew Reda
The article dedicates a significant portion to cover Getachew Reda’s leadership, questioning his record and perceived alignment with the Prosperity Party.
Leadership and Strategic Vision: Simret’s leadership adhere to collective endeavor, rooted in a shared vision for recovery, good governance, and constitutional sovereignty of Tigrai. Our strategic clarity is built on addressing the fundamental challenges facing Tigrai and prioritizing the well-being and aspirations of its people. While we recognize the valuable experience and political understanding of prominent figures like Getachew Reda, our model is designed to blend individual caliber with collective energy and stamina. The future of Simret’s leadership will be shouldered by vibrant, energetic, young Tegaru politicians, while the contribution of experienced leaders still remains imperative. This collaboration is essential to building a deep-rooted foundation for the party.
Tegaru Identity and self Determination: Simret’s stance on Tigrai’s autonomy and self-determination is clear and unwavering, as enshrined in the FDRE constitution. We believe in the right and freedom of the people of Tigrai to determine its own destiny within a democratic framework. Our approach is to advocate for this right through legal, peaceful and political means, engaging with all relevant stakeholders. The narrative that Getachew promotes an “Ethiopian first, Tigrai second” mantra is an oversimplification and mischaracterization of a nuanced position that seeks to secure Tigrai’s future while navigating the complex realities of the Ethiopian federation at hand.
Simret’s Vision for Political Renewal
Simret’s formation indeed reflects a deep but urgent demand for political renewal in Tigrai. We strongly believe that genuine transformation requires:
Strategic Clarity: A clear understanding of Tigrai’s long standing challenges and define the possible and feasible way-outs based on the free will and consent of the people.
Inclusive Leadership: Leadership that transcends past divides and truly represents the diversity and aspirations of Tigrai. This means inculcating and fostering new blood leadership, but also leveraging the experience of those who have genuinely committed to lasting change.
Institution-Building: The development of strong, independent, and accountable democratic institutions, including a professional and non-partisan security sector.
Engagement with the Interim Tigrai Council
The article suggests that Simret should formally apply to join the Interim Tigrai Council and use it as its primary political platform. Simret recognizes the importance of institutional legitimacy and collective governance. We are committed to engaging constructively with existing and future legitimate bodies that serve the interests of the people of Tigrai. Our actions will always be guided by the principle of strengthening democratic institutions and fostering a collaborative environment for Tigrai’s multiple political transitions.
The Broader Role of Tigraian Intellectuals and Progressive Leaders
We wholeheartedly agree with the article’s call for the Tigraian progressive intelligentsia and civil society to remain actively engaged. Their dual responsibility, to critique constructively and actively strengthen nationalist political parties that truly reflect the aspirations of the wider public, is extremely vital. Simret welcomes this scrutiny and engagement. We believe that an informed, principled, and sustained participation by Tigrai’s most capable thinkers and leaders is crucial for shaping and reshaping a democratic and prosperous future for Tigrai.
In conclusion, Tigrai Democratic Solidarity (Simret) is neither a recycled version of the past nor a Trojan horse for any external entity. We are an independent political party dedicated to a legal, peaceful and civil struggle for Tigrai’s better future that strongly aspires for democratic governance and institutional independence. Central to our mission is upholding the right to self-determination of the people of Tigrai. This is not a blessing which Simret intends to hand over; but it is a fundamental right enshrined in the Ethiopian constitution where Simret struggles to realize. Simret will always spearhead the political aspirations of the people of Tigrai. Our actions and principles will consistently reflect this unwavering stance and unequivocal commitment.
This article was penned by Simret party (Tigrai Democratic Solidarity).
