Nat’l Dialogue Commission completes agenda gathering consultations in 615 woredas

Addis Ababa, November 20, 2024 (FBC) – The Chief Commissioner of Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Commission, Prof. Mesfin Araya, announced that the consultation process for gathering of agenda items has been completed in 615 woredas (districts).

The Commission presented its three-month performance report to the House of Peoples Representatives during its 5th regular session on Tuesday, highlighting the completion of agenda gathering consultations in 615 districts across nine regional states and two city administrations.

The report, delivered by Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya, detailed significant activities achieved during the past three months, including the comprehensive collection of discussion agendas in preparation for the upcoming National Dialogue Conference.

Agenda collection was completed across 615 districts, and the selection of representatives to participate in the national dialogue conference is underway.

The Chief Commissioner said that in Tigray region, consultations with regional leaders and academic institutions have begun to initiate the dialogue process.

Agenda gathering from federal political parties, federal institutions including religious institutions and the diaspora as well as areas where agenda gathering consultation has not yet been held, will be the next focus, according to Professor Mesfin.

Members of Parliament praised the commission’s progress in conducting the dialogue process in a participatory and inclusive manner.

Deputy Chief Commissioner Hirut Gebreselassie stated that the inclusivity of the process was carefully designed to fit the context of each locality, emphasizing that most of the proposed agendas were focused on national issues.

Government Chief Whip at the House of Peoples Representative, Mr. Tesfaye Beljige, expressed the government’s strong belief in resolving long-standing issues through dialogue.

He highlighted that the national dialogue has provided sustainable solutions to enduring challenges and emphasized the strong commitment of the government to continue supporting the process.

Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives, Mr. Tagesse Chafo, highlighted the importance of this national dialogue to sustainably address the causes conflicts, differences, and misunderstandings and maintain the nation on a strong foundation.

He also urged all to participate sincerely and actively for the successful conduct of the national dialogue, as per ENA.

The Speaker further affirmed that the House of Peoples Representatives will provide the necessary oversight and support to the Commission.