Addis Ababa - The Semeret Democratic Party has called for the immediate suspension of what it describes as unlawful auction sales of public assets in Tigray Region.
In a written statement issued on Yekatit 25, 2018 E.C., the party alleged that properties owned by the public are being transferred through non-transparent, internal auction processes. It claimed that natural resources are being exploited and extensive rural and urban lands sold under the pretext of financing war-related expenditures.
The party further stated that while a directive was issued suspending salary payments for the month of Yekatit, another order mandates a 20pc deduction from the monthly salaries of government employees.
Among the assets reportedly listed for auction are the Mekelle FM office, Menen Hotel, Mega Printing Press, the Police Orchestra and Tirengo Hotel in Quiha. The party argued that these properties constitute public assets and, under existing legal frameworks, cannot be transferred to third parties.
Semeret urged investors and financial institutions to refrain from participating in what it termed an illegal process, warning of potential legal consequences. It also called on residents of Tigray to closely monitor developments and oppose the sales through organised civic engagement.
Authorities in the region have yet to publicly respond to the allegations.
