NEBE Revokes TPLF’s Political Party Status After Months-Long Dispute
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By Ethiopian Tribune Staff
Addis Ababa — May 14, 2025
The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has officially stripped the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) of its political party status, culminating a contentious regulatory battle that began with the party’s conditional reinstatement last year.
In a statement released yesterday, NEBE confirmed the revocation, citing the TPLF’s “persistent failure to meet regulatory requirements” established during its provisional recognition in August 2024.
“After careful deliberation and following established procedures, the Board has determined that TPLF has not satisfied the mandatory conditions for maintaining political party status,” said the NEBE announcement.
The decision follows the expiration of a three-month suspension period, during which the TPLF was expected to address its regulatory shortcomings. These included holding a general assembly and electing new leadership according to federal electoral standards.
The TPLF, once the dominant force in Ethiopia’s ruling coalition before Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s reforms, was initially granted special recognition following the 2022 Pretoria peace agreement that ended the devastating conflict in northern Ethiopia.
Sources within NEBE told the Ethiopian Tribune that the TPLF was given “exceptional accommodations” in the interest of national reconciliation but failed to capitalize on the opportunity to reform its organizational structure.
Tigray regional officials with ties to the TPLF described the decision as “politically motivated” and a potential setback to the fragile peace in the region. “This action raises serious questions about the inclusivity of our political system and the commitment to genuine national dialogue,” said a senior Tigray administrator who requested anonymity.
Political analysts suggest the revocation could have far-reaching implications for Ethiopia’s political landscape ahead of upcoming electoral cycles. Dr. Mesfin Abebe, a political scientist at Addis Ababa University, noted that “the removal of TPLF from the political parties registry effectively sidelines a significant political force in northern Ethiopia, creating uncertainty about representation for their support base.”
NEBE officials emphasized that the decision followed standard regulatory procedures applied to all political organizations. “The Board has consistently communicated the requirements and deadlines to TPLF leadership over the past nine months,” stated a senior NEBE representative.
The TPLF must now reapply for recognition should it wish to participate in future elections. According to NEBE regulations, this would require demonstrating broad-based membership, organizational capacity, and compliance with all provisions of Ethiopia’s political parties law.
Government spokespersons have refrained from commenting directly on the decision, maintaining that NEBE operates as an independent institution.
The development comes at a sensitive time as Ethiopia continues its complex transition following years of conflict, with national elections expected within the next two years.
