Hard truths.
The alliance brings together the Fano militia in Amhara, the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), and four other smaller groupings in a coalition named Alliance for Survival.
The Ashenda festival was due to culminate in a large event at a stadium in Mekelle on Saturday, where girls and young women were expected to gather in colourful traditional outfits to celebrate the occasion.
Youssouf stressed that the calm achieved after years of conflict must not be placed at risk, pointing to the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement as the foundation of stability in the region.
However, analysts remain cautious, noting that the region’s stability will depend largely on Tadesse’s ability to navigate the complex dynamics between Ethiopia, Eritrea, and the Tigray leadership.