Debretsion Gebremichael is an Ethiopian politician and high-ranking member of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). He served as the president of the Tigray Regional State and was previously part of the federal government of Ethiopia, where he held the position of Minister of Communications and Information Technology. His career in politics includes involvement in major infrastructural projects, particularly in telecommunications, as part of Ethiopia's broader national development programs.
Debretsion has a background in electrical engineering and information technology, having studied in Ethiopia and abroad. His expertise in these fields led to his leadership in the national telecommunications sector, where he played a role in the expansion of mobile networks and internet services across Ethiopia. During his time in the federal government, Debretsion also served as one of the deputy prime ministers, reflecting his influence within the country's political establishment.
In November 2020, the Tigray War began between the Tigray People's Liberation Front and the Ethiopian federal government. As the president of the Tigray Regional State, Debretsion was one of the key figures representing Tigrayan interests in the conflict. He played a prominent role in leading the TPLF's response to the military actions initiated by the Ethiopian government. The conflict led to widespread displacement and severe humanitarian conditions in the region, drawing international attention to the situation in Tigray.
Throughout the conflict, Debretsion has been involved in diplomatic engagements and talks aimed at finding a resolution to the war. As a leader within the TPLF, he has represented the region in various discussions with international bodies and foreign governments. Despite the conflict, the TPLF leadership, including Debretsion, has remained a central actor in Ethiopian politics.
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