“Distinguished representatives of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and other concerned parties:
“IGAD, whose founding principle is the “sovereign equality of all member states”, was established in 1996 with certain objectives: to promote cooperation, stability, and development in the Horn of Africa. We have observed, over many years, the functioning of this regional organization.
“Time and again, this institution has failed to fulfill its statutory obligations. When measures that threaten regional stability occur— when charters are ignored, when resolutions are not implemented, when borders agreed-upon through international agreements are questioned or undermined—-this body remains silent. The Algiers Agreement, signed twenty-five years ago, was Witnessed by the international community, including our Continental Congress, the African Union. But compliance has been delayed, obstructed, and now openly challenged.
“IGAD has strayed from its mandate. It has become, in practice, a platform that serves narrow interests rather than regional stability. Despite its 1st Principle of upholding the sovereign equality of all member states, it has not upheld impartiality. After a long absence, Eritrea rejoined in good faith in 2023, expecting reform and meaningful engagement. Not just expected, but conditioned its return on them. But no tangible progress has been made. No serious response to our concerns.
“Therefore, the State of Eritrea has decided to withdraw its membership from IGAD, effective immediately. This is not a hasty decision. It is based on careful assessment of realities on the ground. We will continue to pursue, and much welcome, bilateral relations with neighbors wherever mutual respect exists. But we cannot remain part of an organization that has lost its relevance and undermines the very principles it claims to defend.
“While on the subject, the African Union may also reflect on its own record. Sovereignty and territorial integrity are not selective. Resolutions cannot be enforced only when convenient.
“That is all.”
The above is what I would have preferred an Eritrean government representative to say at the halls of IGAD. Sadly, that’s not how the People’s Front works: because it just does not believe in meetings and congresses and such.
Leave a Reply