Tigray Region Stakeholders Hail Nat'l Dialogue Forum as Turning Point in Reconciliation Process

Addis Ababa, April 2, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s agenda-gathering consultation forum is being described by stakeholders from the Tigray region as an important step toward addressing differences through peaceful and civil dialogue.

The first round of the forum, kicked off in Addis Ababa on Wednesday, brought together the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya, commissioners, regional political parties and other key stakeholders from Tigray.

 

Participants exchanged views, concerns, and priorities intended to inform and shape the broader national dialogue process.

The nationwide consultation process, led by ENDC, is now entering a critical phase, transitioning from preparatory work into substantive agenda-setting at the national level.

The forum with stakeholders from the Tigray region in Addis Ababa marks a key milestone in identifying priority issues for discussion among commissioners, political actors, and other participants.

This phase is considered crucial as it defines the scope, legitimacy, and inclusiveness of the dialogue process, which aims to address long-standing political, constitutional and social divisions through peaceful and institutional means.

In an exclusive interview with ENA, participants from the Tigray region said their involvement in the consultation reflects a gradual but important step toward reintegration into national political processes following conflict.

 

They further emphasized that inclusive dialogue remains the only viable path to resolving differences, describing the forum as an important platform for expressing grievances, expectations, and future priorities.

Their engagement, they noted, reflects cautious optimism and highlights the importance of trust-building, broad representation, and sustained commitment for the national dialogue to contribute meaningfully to reconciliation and long-term stability.

Among the participants, Tafere Hiluf described the forum as engaging and exceeding his expectations, commending the commission’s approach.

He noted that differences are natural and said the platform helps bring diverse ideas together to resolve disagreements in a peaceful and civil manner.

 

Anteneh Mitiku described the consultation as a reflection of the hopes and views of many people, stressing that dialogue remains the only path to resolving disputes.

Anteneh expressed strong support for such forums, saying they embody the values society should embrace.

Other participants, including Abdu Abdulkadir and Serkalem Workneh, echoed similar views, saying broad consultations are essential for Ethiopia’s progress and for nurturing a better generation in the future.