Mekelle, September 19, 2025 – The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) gave a stark warning to independent media outlets, particularly targeting Tigray Broadcasting Service (TBS), signaling a direct threat to press freedom in the region, according to a report by TBS. In a meeting with state and party affilitaed media, a senior TPLF official declared, “We will shut down the media called TBS. We will not tolerate it. Even the military has made its decision.” This pronouncement, attributed to the head of the TPLF’s secretariat, Fetlewroq Gebreagziabher, has raised alarm about the party’s intentions to stifle dissent and control the narrative in Tigray.
The statement comes amid growing concerns over the deteriorating political climate in Tigray, where TBS has gained prominence for its critical editorials exposing the region’s challenges. Established two years ago by media personalities and investors, TBS operates independently from its headquarters in Mekelle, Tigray’s capital. Its bold coverage has drawn significant attention, making it a target for the TPLF’s ire.
In this recent event in Mekelle, led by Fetlewroq Gebreagziabher, the party accused Tigray’s media, particularly TBS, of working against the interests of the people. The TPLF’s rhetoric framed media outlets as tools of external forces allegedly collaborating with the federal government to destabilize Tigray. Fetlewroq stated, “They are trying to intimidate us, but we, as a people, will strengthen our unity and continue to resist,” signaling a combative stance toward independent journalism.
The event featured high-level party figures, including Liya Kassa and Solomon Kidane, both members of the TPLF’s powerful 9-member Politburo.
The TPLF’s accusations extended to claims that Tigray’s media are undermining the region’s unity and serving as “tools of the enemy.” The party also referenced past grievances, alleging that during the Tigray Interim Regional Administration (TIRA) leadership of Getachew Reda, Tigray’s media were used as instruments of a “traitorous force.” Liya Kassa claimed that media outlets failed to align with the party’s agenda during the interim administration, accusing them of broadcasting content that did not serve the public’s interest.
Solomon Kidane further criticized journalists, arguing that their profession should serve as a “tool” for the party’s goals rather than an independent pursuit. “Journalists should not be slaves to their profession,” Solomon said, adding that media outlets that deviate from the TPLF’s line are working to “dismantle the organization.” He also questioned the motives of Getachew Reda and others, accusing them of a “crisis of identity” and betraying Tigray’s cause.
The TPLF’s threats have sparked outrage among journalists and media advocates, who see the party’s actions as an attempt to suppress free expression.
TBS, in response, issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to truth: “Our message is clear: the depth of Tigray’s problems cannot be resolved by silencing us. We stand united, not as a drum of division, but as a voice for the people.”
The recent move by TPLF appears to be the culmination of a longer effort to reassert absolute control. Fetlework had previously, during Getachew Reda’s tenure, threatened to bring state-owned Tigray Television and Dimtsi Woyane TV owned by e Endowment Fund for the Rehabilitation of Tigray (EFFORT) back under direct party control. After the Getachew Reda’s TIRA was dissolved and the regional parliament that oversees EFFORT non-functional, the TPLF has now successfully centralized authority over these key broadcasters.
The TPLF’s “zero tolerance” stance, coupled with threats of military action, has heightened fears of a broader crackdown on independent institutions. Observers note that the party’s rhetoric reflects a deeper intent to consolidate power by silencing critical voices.
As Tigray navigates its complex political landscape, the TPLF’s threats underscore a troubling trend toward authoritarianism, raising questions about the future of press freedom and democratic discourse in the region.
