CSOs pledge to enhance engagement to ensure effective implementation of nat’l dialogue

Addis Ababa, December 29, 2023 (FBC) – The civic society organizations (CSOs) have affirmed their commitment to further bolster their involvement in facilitating the national dialogue process, which is deemed crucial in achieving sustainable peace within the nation.

They have also emphasized that the national dialogue will serve as a platform to foster consensus and address the underlying factors contributing to long-standing conflicts and disputes.

The presidents of the Ethiopian Teachers Association and Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Unions (CETU) stated that they are working together with the National Dialogue Commission for the successful conduct of the upcoming dialogue process.

President of the Ethiopian Teachers Association, Yohannes Benti said that the national dialogue is instrumental to bring lasting peace in Ethiopia as it strives to address the root causes of conflict.

Thus, he stressed that those who claim to be involved in nation affairs are expected to fulfill their citizenship obligations by discussing and actively participating in the process.

The President reiterated that the association is working to discharge its role by using this notable opportunity to help the efforts achieve lasting peace.

Mentioning the association has signed an agreement document with the commission and is working to participate in the dialogue through structures at all levels, he elaborated.

President of Confederation of Ethiopian Trade Unions (CETU) Kassahun Follo on his part said that the union has been participating in the process since the establishment of the commission. The union also participated in selection of participants he said.

In order to accelerate economic development of the country, creating a common understanding on major affairs of the country is irreplaceable and should be prioritized, the president stressed.

Noting the dialogue will not only be a one-time event, but also a forum where we can practice resolving differences through dialogue, Kassahun underscored.

The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission was established with 11 Commissioners by the House of People’s Representatives to lead an independent, inclusive, and transparent national dialogue across the country.

The main objective of the commission is to facilitate consultations among various segments of the society on fundamental issues of the country by identifying the root causes of existing differences through dialogue.

Since its establishment, the commission has been carrying out various activities, engaging numerous stakeholders at federal and regional levels including civic societies, as per ENA.