24/02/2026
Official Statement of the Tigray Youth Diplomatic Union (TYDU)
Rejecting the Recent Decision of the National Election Board of Ethiopia
The Tigray Youth Diplomatic Union (TYDU) hereby formally rejects and strongly condemns the recent decision issued by the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE).
This decision is not a neutral administrative measure. It is a deeply political action taken at a fragile time when the people of Tigray are struggling to recover from war, displacement, economic destruction, and unresolved territorial occupation. Rather than contributing to normalization and democratic transition, this move risks undermining trust and reversing the limited progress achieved through the Pretoria Peace Agreement.
TYDU views this decision as:
1. A step that contradicts the spirit of reconciliation and inclusive political dialogue.
2. A measure that raises serious concerns regarding equal constitutional treatment.
3. An action that may deepen instability instead of promoting democratic recovery.
At this critical historical moment, Ethiopia needs confidence-building measures — not actions that may marginalize a war-affected population or weaken regional political representation.
TYDU therefore:
1. Calls for immediate reconsideration of the decision.
2. Urges the federal government to demonstrate genuine commitment to peaceful political resolution.
3. Calls upon international partners and guarantors of the Pretoria Agreement to closely monitor developments and encourage constitutional consistency.
4. Calls and encourages all Tigrayan political and civic actors to respond with unity, discipline, and peaceful advocacy.
The youth of Tigray remain committed to peaceful political engagement, democratic reform, and constitutional justice. However, peace must be mutual, and justice must be applied equally.
Tigray deserves lawful treatment, political dignity, and sustainable peace within the federation.
Tigray Youth Diplomatic Union (TYDU)
23 Feb, 2026