Addis Ababa: Advisor to the president of Ethiopia’s Islamic Affairs Supreme Council Ustaz Abu Bakr Ahmed emphasized the importance of everyone playing their role in achieving successful national dialogue in the country.

Ethiopia is about to commence the first ever national dialogue with a view to strengthen the national unity and prosperity of the country by resolving its long standing challenges and reach consensus on basic issues.

National Dialogue Commission, which is responsible to conducting the dialogue, have carried out various activities including identifying potential participants at the regions and city administrations across the country.

Tasks related to collecting agenda at the regional levels and related activities have been conducted by charting out various means and ways in cooperation with concerned stakeholders.

In his interview with ENA, Advisor to the President of Ethiopia’s Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, Ustaz Abu Bakr stressed the importance of everyone playing their role in achievi
ng successful national dialogue, with the participation of various segments of society and a peaceful approach to addressing concerns.

The advisor explained that the prevailing culture of failing to resolve conflicts through constructive dialogue remains a persistent challenge.

He acknowledged that Ethiopia has faced diverse challenges and problems over the decades, and noted that efforts have been made to address these issues since the recent changes, including the establishment of the National Dialogue Commission, which is crucial for forging a national consensus and driving the country’s development.

Ustaz Abu Bakr highlighted that dialogue is the only viable solution to find lasting resolutions to differences and promote national development, as opposed to the use of force or other confrontational methods that lead to bloodshed and conflict.

Citing the Northern War as an example, the advisor underscored that disputes and issues in the country cannot be resolved through weapons and violence, but rather
requires a concerted effort of national dialogue.

He emphasized the need for a contest of ideas, where questions are posed in a civilized manner to reach common solutions that satisfy all parties, rather than resorting to coercion or forces, which only serve to destroy lives and undermine the country.

The advisor emphasized that national dialogue holds a pivotal role in finding solutions to the country’s problems, and urged everyone to lend their support and assistance to ensure the success of this vital process.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency