The formation of a new bloc, including Tigray People’s Liberation Front, signals increased pressure on Abiy Ahmed’s government

In a significant escalation of Ethiopia’s ongoing conflict, nine anti-government factions have united under the banner of the United Front of Ethiopian Federalist and Confederalist Forces. This alliance includes the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which has been in active combat with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s forces for over a year.

The newly formed bloc also brings together previously rival ethnic groups, including the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), in a concerted effort to challenge the government. Berhane Gebrechristos, a former foreign minister and Tigray official, emphasized the group’s determination, saying, “There is no limit for us… Definitely, we will have a change in Ethiopia before Ethiopia implodes.”

With growing fears of a march on the capital, Addis Ababa, this alliance signals a heightened risk to the government’s hold on power. As the civil war in Ethiopia continues to intensify, the formation of this coalition raises the stakes for the future of the country and the stability of Abiy Ahmed’s administration.