Government Emphasizes Dialogue and Reconciliation as Essential for Lasting Peace, says GCS Minister

Addis Ababa, January 17, 2025 (FMC) – In a weekly press briefing, the Minister of Government Communication Service (GCS), Legesse Tulu (PhD) announced that fostering dialogue and reconciliation is the government’s primary strategy for addressing differences and achieving lasting peace across the country.

Minister Legesse provided an update on recent developments, highlighting the government’s ongoing efforts to engage with armed groups through peaceful means.

The Minister emphasized that the government has launched various initiatives aimed at maintaining peace, urging armed groups to voice their concerns through legal channels. He reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining open lines for peaceful resolutions.

Legesse noted that peace agreements have been successfully reached with armed groups in the Benshangul Gumuz and Gambella regions, facilitating the reintegration of former combatants into society and enabling them to resume normal lives.

He mentioned that some former members of armed groups from the Benshagul Gumuz region have even secured positions in parliament following by-elections.

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to fully implementing the Pretoria Peace Agreement, which effectively ended the conflict with the TPLF. He stressed that the government is focused on incorporating insights gained from discussions with dissenting groups to bridge gaps and promote peaceful resolutions.

Furthermore, Legesse highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the reintegration of ex-combatants through rehabilitation programs that support their return to civilian life.