Let peace deal lead to lasting peace in Ethiopia

Members of the Tigrayan community protest against the conflict between Ethiopia and Tigray rebels in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region, outside the United Arab Emirates embassy in Pretoria, South Africa on Oct. 12, 2022. [AP Photo]

When top leaders clash, the ordinary man bears the brunt of hostilities. And so it is with the Ethiopian conflict, where Tigray rebels have waged a two-year war against the government. With the guns now silent, more than 600,000 people have died painfully from the bullets and a devastating famine.

The politicians bought guns and unleashed them on innocent civilians to fight each for selfish causes that had little to do with the small man, woman or child going about their lives. The blood of the victims will always be in the hands of the leaders. It is a tough lesson for all African leaders and policymakers.