Mekelle Still Lacks a Fully Functioning Civil Administration Following Government Forces' Takeover

The city of Mekelle, which is the capital of the Tigray region in northern Ethiopia, is still lacking a fully functioning civilian administration, days after Ethiopian government-backed forces took control of the city.

Government offices, police stations, and the mayor's office were closed on Thursday, with no interim administration announced to take over governance and public services.

The closure of government institutions indicates that the takeover of the city has not yet led to the restoration of civilian governance and essential services.

Although the Tigray Peace Force has implemented a nighttime curfew in the city, it is still unclear who will officially govern Mekelle and when government agency operations will resume.

This situation has raised concerns among the city's residents and businesspeople, with many businesses still closed due to fears of violence and looting.

However, some restaurants, food shops, and small businesses have reopened, although commercial activity has not yet returned to its normal level.

On the other hand, the southern road connecting Mekelle and the capital Addis Ababa has been reopened. The reopening of this road has enabled fuel and other essential supplies to reach the city, after armed clashes had disrupted the movement and transportation of goods.

Uncertainty regarding security and administration has also been reported in the city of Shire in the Tigray region. Two local residents told the Associated Press (AP) that they saw the forces of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) leaving the city.

This situation has heightened concerns about the safety of the public, with many businesses closing their doors, while others have moved their goods to other locations to protect them from looting.

The absence of a functioning civilian administration and security uncertainty poses a threat to civilians, especially families who have previously been displaced by the conflicts in the region.

Mekelle is also a crucial hub for the operations of humanitarian aid agencies, which support those affected by the conflicts and difficult living conditions.

Restoring security, police operations, civilian administration, and basic services are essential to prevent looting, protect the public, and facilitate the delivery of aid to those in need.

So far, there is no official information confirming when a functioning civilian administration will be established in Mekelle or how the security situation in the city of Shire will be managed.

The situation in both cities still requires close monitoring, as the public awaits the restoration of government services and stability in their daily lives.