Sheikh Abdulkerim Haji Bedredin, First Deputy President of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, has called on armed groups in Ethiopia to choose peace over conflict, stating that nothing is to be gained from division.

Speaking at the 1,500th Mawlid celebration at the Grand Anwar Mosque in Addis Ababa, Sheikh Bedredin emphasized that what unites Ethiopians far outweighs what divides them, with conflict leading only to "loss, not gain."

He underscored the importance of the Prophet Muhammad's birth anniversary, noting its "profound meaning" for national peace, progress, and unity. In a direct plea to those fighting, he said: "To our brothers who have taken up armed struggle and are in the wilderness for the sake of national unity, we call on you to accept the government's peace offer, use peaceful means of struggle, and return to your homes."

He concluded by urging the Muslim community to celebrate the holiday by expressing their love for the Prophet and sharing with the needy.