DPM Stresses Need for Democracy Rooted in Ethiopian Values, Cooperation

Addis Ababa, July 23, 2025 (ENA) -- Building a democracy rooted in Ethiopian culture and values requires not only competition among political parties but also meaningful cooperation, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh underscored today.

Opening a national peace conference organized by the Joint Council of Ethiopian Political Parties and the Ministry of Peace under the theme “The Role of Political Parties in Enhancing Peace”, the DPM stressed that lasting peace is a prerequisite for development, justice, and national well-being.

According to him, true national transformation demands addressing the root causes of political instability and moving beyond a historical pattern of conflict resolution through force.

Drawing a parallel to the successful harnessing of the Nile River for power generation, Temesgen called for similarly focused efforts to tap into the country’s natural resources and human potential.

 

He underscored that human ingenuity must be guided by morality, education, and the rule of law.

In this regard, the Deputy Prime Minister reaffirmed the central role of political parties in addressing Ethiopia’s deep-rooted political and peace-related challenges.

Democracy grounded in Ethiopian values must be built through both healthy political competition and constructive cooperation and a civilized political culture that requires citizens who uphold democratic ideals and political elites who reflect those principles.

Temesgen further noted that the path to democratic development is not paved with weapons or coercion but with unity, tolerance, and respect for the rule of law.

The DPM condemned extremism, arrogance, and incitement to violence, while commending political parties for increasingly embracing peaceful and lawful means of political engagement.

He finally called on all political actors to remain steadfast in their commitment to peace, stability, and the nurturing of a democratic culture.

Peace Minister Mohammed Idris on his part reaffirmed the ministry's dedication to peace building and emphasized the indispensable role political parties play in achieving sustainable peace and national unity.

 

The minister pointed out that peace has been restored through dialogue and lawful mechanisms of conflict resolution in various regions of the country.

He urged political parties to lead by example in promoting the rule of law, democratic values, and a culture of dialogue. 

Ethiopian Political Parties Council Chairman, Solomon Ayele, stressed on the occasion that sustainable peace requires a strong democratic culture, political stability, and an inclusive state that respects the rights and identities of all its citizens.

Stressing the importance of free, fair, and democratic elections as a foundation for enduring peace and development, the Chairman said the Joint Council is actively working to foster dialogue and collaboration among political parties and is committed to advancing Ethiopia’s democratic system.

 

According to Solomon, the ongoing political reforms have created a valuable opportunity for political parties to cooperate more closely on national priorities.

He asserted that such collaboration is essential for preventing future conflicts and ensuring Ethiopia’s continued progress.