True national healing and a sustainable future for Ethiopia can only be achieved if citizens lay down their arms and choose civilized roundtable dialogue over armed conflict, Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya emphasized in an interview.
In an interview with Arma Broadcast, Professor Mesfin Araya, Chief Commissioner of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, noted that alongside the nation's long and proud history, there are deep historical scars left behind by political, social, and economic fractures.
To heal these deep-rooted wounds, the Chief Commissioner stressed that history must not be used as an instrument for revenge or political exploitation. Instead, he underscored the critical importance of building consensus by openly acknowledging past mistakes and prioritizing forgiveness. He explained that historical narratives can only be transformed from destructive weapons into mirrors for future learning through mature, civilized, and participatory dialogue.
Furthermore, Professor Mesfin shared his optimism that the national dialogue will create a vital opportunity for marginalized and isolated segments of society to reintegrate and live peacefully alongside their fellow citizens, serving as a crucial pathway toward justice. He described the process as indispensable for shaping not only the Ethiopia of today but also of tomorrow. Driven by a profound national vision, this dialogue remains the only viable route to building the country on a solid foundation while wisely healing past wounds.
When asked what would constitute a successful National Dialogue Assembly, he explained that it would be a major victory if district (Woreda) representatives are given an equal voice, can express their ideas freely, are genuinely listened to, and manage to reach mutual agreement—even if only on a limited number of agendas. The Chief Commissioner concluded that successfully reaching the final assembly while formally documenting unresolved issues and assigning responsibility for future deliberations would mark a tremendous achievement for the Commission.
