A growing controversy over the activities of individuals described as “war tourists” in Tigray is beginning to draw criticism from within Ethiopia’s own pro-government circles, as concerns emerge over the humiliation of Tigrayan communities, the spread of misinformation and actions that threaten the region’s fragile social fabric.
The criticism comes as supporters of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s ruling Prosperity Party begin publicly questioning the behavior of individuals who have traveled to areas recently brought under federal military control.
Their concern is that actions carried out in the name of celebrating military success could ultimately undermine those achievements by deepening resentment among the local population.
In an Amharic statement circulating among pro-government voices, one commentator invoked the traditional saying “ሳይቃጠል በቅጠል,” roughly meaning “Put out the fire before it starts.”
The commentator praised the Ethiopian National Defense Forces for what was described as its effective handling of the military campaign but accused those responsible for bringing “war tourists” into conflict areas of reopening the wounds of local communities.
The statement warned that such conduct could severely diminish the military’s achievements and called for urgent reconsideration.
But the warning comes amid allegations that the damage is already being done.
Individuals described as war tourists have been accused of humiliating Tigrayans, interfering with the dignity and social integrity of their communities, and spreading fabricated stories about developments in the region. These allegations have become a central concern in the emerging criticism, although the specific incidents and their perpetrators require independent documentation.
The controversy is particularly sensitive because Tigray remains deeply scarred by the devastating war of 2020 to 2022. Renewed fighting has brought fresh insecurity to communities that have already endured displacement, destruction and profound human suffering.
Against this background, the arrival of individuals accused of exploiting military advances for political publicity or social media attention risks turning battlefield victories into lasting civilian grievances.
What makes the latest criticism noteworthy is its source. The warning is not coming solely from opponents of the federal government. It is also emerging from voices sympathetic to the military campaign who appear increasingly uncomfortable with what is happening in its aftermath.
Their message suggests a recognition that military control and public acceptance are two very different things.
The federal government may regain control of territory, but the humiliation of civilians, attacks on community dignity and circulation of false information can make reconciliation more difficult.
The criticism also raises questions about accountability. Who authorized or facilitated these visits? What relationship, if any, do the individuals involved have with the military or ruling party? And what measures are being taken to protect civilians from harassment and public humiliation?
The available statement does not establish whether senior Prosperity Party officials have formally joined the criticism or whether an organized campaign is underway. Nevertheless, it reflects concern within a section of the pro-government political environment.
For the people of Tigray, the issue goes beyond the political calculations of Ethiopia’s ruling establishment. Respect for their dignity, protection of their communities and truthful reporting about events on the ground remain essential, regardless of who controls the territory.
The irony is that the proverb now being invoked to prevent a crisis comes amid accusations that the very conduct being condemned is already taking place.
The emerging warnings may signal an effort by pro-government voices to contain the fallout. Whether they lead to meaningful accountability, rather than simply protecting the political image of the military campaign, remains to be seen.
