Nat'l Dialogue, Upcoming Election Foster Democratic Culture in Ethiopia, Says MP Ambassador Dina

Addis Ababa, February 7, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s nationwide reconciliations process and the forthcoming seventh national election are crucial to fostering democratic values and a culture of civil politics across the country, Ambassador Dina Mufti said.

Speaking to ENA, a member of the Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee of the House of Peoples’ Representatives, Ambassador Dina noted that the National Dialogue initiative is designed to ease political polarization and bring together diverse viewpoints to address longstanding differences among Ethiopians.

 He added that preparations for the general election, scheduled for June 1, 2026, are progressing steadily.

According to the ambassador, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) has been actively engaging communities nationwide, collecting public views and opinions to encourage constructive discussions on national issues.

He said the insights gathered will soon be consolidated into a public agenda, allowing citizens to collectively examine and address the root causes of divisions.

“The national dialogue process plays a critical role in enhancing democratic culture by helping society resolve differences in a civilized manner,” Ambassador Dina said.

He added: “Dialogue is a core principle of democracy. The Commission is creating a conducive environment where citizens can freely express their ideas and work toward viable solutions.”

On the upcoming election, Ambassador Dina said the National Election Board of Ethiopia is working to ensure the process is democratic, transparent, and inclusive.

He expressed optimism that the election will be conducted peacefully with the active participation of all stakeholders.

“We expect a calm electoral environment supported by broad engagement from political actors and the public,” he said, emphasizing that transparency and inclusive participation are essential for ensuring the election contributes to a stable and prosperous Ethiopia.

In a recent address to the House of Peoples’ Representatives, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed underscored the importance of shifting Ethiopia’s political culture from confrontation to dialogue.

 Dina observed that Ethiopians have historically relied on force rather than discussion to resolve disagreements—a tendency he said has undermined lasting peace and national unity.

The Prime Minister explained that this confrontational mindset often begins at the family level and later shapes political and social behavior, eventually fueling broader national conflicts.

 He stressed that sustainable peace requires transforming political culture and social norms by prioritizing dialogue, trust, and mutual understanding.

Calling on the current generation to seize what he described as a historic opportunity, Prime Minister Abiy urged Ethiopians to build the nation through inclusive national dialogue.

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that this year’s election is peaceful, fair, and inclusive.

“With regard to the election, my message to the Ethiopian people is: let us judge it by the results,” the Prime Minister said. “I can state with confidence that this parliament will be a place where diverse voices are heard in many ways.”