Leaders of Competing Political Parties across Ethiopia have pledged to collaborate on achieving lasting peace, putting aside their differences to focus on national stability and development. The announcement came after a joint meeting held at the scenic Gorgora Eco Resort near Gondar City, signalling a potential shift in the country's often-turbulent political landscape.
The Joint Council of Ethiopian Political Parties, representing a diverse range of ideologies and regional interests, has committed to prioritising peace-building initiatives.
Chairperson Solomon Ayele emphasised the urgency of establishing stability to safeguard and utilise existing development projects. "Peace is paramount," Solomon stated. "Without it, the progress we are making in areas like Gondar and its surroundings cannot be fully realised. The Joint Council will dedicate its efforts to ensuring a lasting peace for the benefit of all Ethiopians."
The gathering at Gorgora Eco Resort provided a neutral ground for dialogue and fostered a spirit of cooperation among the political leaders. Members from various parties expressed satisfaction with their stay and acknowledged the positive impact of witnessing firsthand the ongoing development initiatives in the Gondar region. They also highlighted the importance of promoting Ethiopia's rich tourism potential, noting the efforts being made to enhance the appeal of local sites.
Gondar City Administration First Deputy Mayor Chalachew Dagnew welcomed the initiative and underscored the city's significance as a cultural and historical hub. "Gondar boasts seven UNESCO-registered heritage sites. Gorgora Eco Resort, being conveniently located near the city, offers an additional attraction for tourists and encourages them to extend their visit, further benefiting the local economy,” Chalachew stated.
He emphasised the importance of tourism in supporting Gondar's growth and preserving its unique heritage.
Alamrew Abera, Central Gondar Zone Deputy Administrator and Head of Land Administration Division, addressed the concerns of security around tourist destinations. "We are actively working to enhance security measures to ensure that visitors can explore the zone's attractions with peace of mind," Alamrew affirmed. He further stated that creating a safe and welcoming environment for tourists is a key priority in the region's development strategy.
The commitment from these leaders comes at a crucial time for Ethiopia, which has faced significant challenges in recent years, including regional conflicts and political tensions.
The willingness of rival parties to engage in dialogue and collaborate on peace-building offers a glimmer of hope for a more stable and prosperous future. While specific details of the proposed peace initiatives remain to be unveiled, the initial commitment has been met with cautious optimism by observers and citizens alike.
The meeting at Gorgora Eco Resort served as a testament to the potential for peaceful collaboration in the face of adversity.
The leaders also praised the development projects, suggesting the importance of sustainable tourism and infrastructure development as vital to the stability of Gondar and the northern region of Ethiopia.
The next steps for the Joint Council involve developing a comprehensive peace plan that addresses the underlying causes of conflict and promotes reconciliation at the grassroots level.
The plan is expected to include initiatives focused on promoting inter-community dialogue, addressing grievances, and ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities.
The success of this endeavour will depend on the willingness of all stakeholders to engage in good faith and compromise for the greater good of the nation. However, the initial commitment from Competing Political Parties represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of lasting peace and stability in Ethiopia, according to them.