- Commission urges inclusive participation in Amhara state agenda gathering
ADDIS ABABA, Chief Commissioner of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission Prof. Mesfin Araya emphasized that dialogue and consensus are the only viable paths to achieving lasting peace and resolving the country’s ongoing conflicts.
“There is no other option than to reach a lasting agreement through dialogue, dialogue, and more dialogue,” said Prof. Mesfin at the launch of the National Dialogue agenda-gathering program in Amhara State.
The program, which runs from April 5–8,
2025, is part of the Commission’s broader national effort to ensure an inclusive and participatory peace process. In Amhara alone, over 4,500 participants from 267 districts, along with 6,000 stakeholders, are expected to contribute to the agenda-setting process.
Prof. Mesfin stressed the importance of institutionalizing a culture of consultation and consensus-building as the foundation for peaceful coexistence.
“Non-consensual approaches do not yield sustainable solutions. The Commission is working impartially to ensure that all parties, including armed groups, are part of the dialogue. This process is designed to produce win-win outcomes,” he said.
The Chief Commissioner praised the Amhara Region’s pivotal role in the process and urged local communities to make their historic contribution by actively engaging in discussions that will help define key national and regional priorities.
“Despite the many ups and downs, we remain committed to this process. Our efforts are a testament to the determination of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission to resolve national issues through dialogue,” he added.
The Dialogue Commission Deputy Chief Commissioner Hirut Gebre Selassie also addressed the gathering and underlined that Ethiopia’s past and present conflicts have hindered its progress.
“We must understand that while armed struggle may bring temporary victories, it does not guarantee lasting peace,” she said. “True and durable peace comes only through meaningful discussion.”
Hirut noted that the Amhara state ‘s participation marks a major milestone, stating that delegates from the gathering will help identify community representatives and provide guidance on fundamental regional and national concerns.
Both officials reiterated that the Commission’s legal and moral obligation is to ensure the dialogue process is open to all stakeholders, with special emphasis on inclusivity, transparency, and fairness.
The National Dialogue Commission continues to call on all Ethiopians—government actors, opposition groups, civil society, and the general public—to actively participate in shaping Ethiopia’s future through this historic initiative.
BY ESSEYE MENGISTE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 6 APRIL 2025
