Pressing quest on the feasibility of Ethio-Eritrea rapprochement

Abstract

“Comrades Combat” to the rootless aftermath! This paper was set out aiming at figure out the major debates on the feasibility of the Ethio-Eritrean rapprochement alongside its implementation procedures immediately Abiy Ahmed hold the ultimate political power in Ethiopia. To address the stated objective, data were gathered via in-depth interview with foreign relation experts in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and respected Diplomats who are branded on the political dynamics of the Horn of Africa. Besides, potential documents were analyzed to enrich the data. Subsequently, qualitative data analysis which operated QDA-miner was used to sort out the segments of the major codes. Thus, the major findings of the study are presented thematically: memorial sand-based relation; procedural asymmetry of thought; and the beyond bilateral actors are the core. The flashback memory of Tigray People Liberation Front (TPLF) and Eritrean People Liberation Front (EPLF) was a factor to stirring the new rapprochement. Local communities’ contrary assertion of initiation to the agreement is bridling the swift relation. Equally, incompatible legacies and blurred nature of political economy which have practiced by the two states has ignited the concern. On the other hand, the weak roles of regional organization, Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to exercising its mandates in the region; the geo-political importance of the region for the powerful states; the dynamic shifting of the powerful states’ interest on the region and their actively involvement on. Blending them, the forward looking of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has recognized internally and by the international community as well for paving way to synergize the region. However, speculations are presupposing that some odd political entities would be emerged. And in turn stirring the political practices in Ethiopia is not taken too lightly moving to influence the region’s peace and stability unless due care is given.