ETHIOPIA: ENDF recalls retired soldiers to barracks

ADDIS ABABA- Former soldiers who served in the Ethiopian National Defense Forces [ENDF] have been recalled to barracks, state media reported, as the war between the federal government of Ethiopia and Tigray Defense Forces continue to wreak havoc in the Horn of Africa nation.

The ENDF said the retired soldiers will help the government thwart efforts by the TDF to close in into Addis Ababa, a city with history across the continent. TDF has already taken over strategic towns in northern Ethiopia. 

ENDF said former members of the armed forces who have physical capability including general health, mental readiness, knowledge and experience are invited to register between November 10 to 24/2021.

Those who will be allowed to register should be members who have accepted the constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Constitution; those who believe in the sovereignty and unity of the people and are willing to serve with perseverance, Fana reported. 

They are also required to be free from partisanship of any political party, prosecutions, both criminal or civil and physically fit and are ready to operate throughout the country.

Those who had leadership experiences in infantry officers, battalion leadership and more and those who served as trainer at any military training center and can provide proof of their experiences and those who were members of mechanized and team equipment divisions have been invited.

Other requirements include age limits. Accordingly, ENDF said line officers should be not more than 60 years old; whereas ranked officers above the rank lieutenant should be no more than 64 years.

The ENDF requested those in Addis Abeba to register in their respective sub-cities, and those in regional states to register in their respective security and militia offices of the Woredas and Kebeles in person. The ENDF has struggled to contain TDF for the last four months. 

Members of the international community including the US and Turkey have urged both parties to pave way for dialogue. However, TDF insists that it is keen to take over Addis Ababa, something which could change fortunes of Abiy Ahmed. 

GAROWE ONLINE