ONLF ceases its involvement in Ethiopia’s national discourse.

The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) has halted its involvement in the Ethiopian National Dialogue process, alleging that the governing party in the Somali area has violated agreements established with political groups.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the ONLF said that the governing party arbitrarily selected participants for the debate, therefore barring varied perspectives and contravening the agreement on exclusivity.

This exclusionary method undermines the fundamental objective of a national discussion, which is intended to unite all parties to tackle the underlying causes of conflict. The statement indicated that the absence of significant political figures from Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray, along with continuing active conflicts, jeopardizes the dialogue’s potential to be balanced and to achieve real peace.

The ONLF reiterated its commitment to an inclusive, transparent, and authentic discussion to achieve enduring peace in Ethiopia. They announced their refusal to engage in the existing conversation framework unless the process is reintroduced.

The National Dialogue Process was established to resolve the internal disputes jeopardizing Ethiopia’s unity. Notwithstanding the attempts, the nation continues in turmoil, with the Tigray area ravaged by civil war, the Oromo Liberation Army dominating sections of Oromia, and Amhara enduring continuous insurgency and martial rule.