Addis Ababa - Ethiopia, a country long affected by internal conflicts, is embarking on a crucial journey towards peace and reconciliation, underscored by the signing of the Pretoria Agreement in November 2022. This agreement represents a significant step towards resolving conflicts in the country's northern regions.

According to Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), speaking to foreign diplomats, Ethiopia's future hinges on two critical initiatives: transitional justice and national dialogue. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, these initiatives are integral to the Ethiopian government's strategy to address the root causes of internal conflicts. Transitional justice focuses on redressing past injustices and human rights violations through accountability and reconciliation, while national dialogue emphasizes consensus-building and addressing longstanding grievances.

Demeke emphasized the importance of these initiatives in his address, noting their role in healing historical wounds and fostering national unity. He stressed the need for genuine commitment and determination from all stakeholders in the national dialogue, highlighting the principles of truth-telling, forgiveness, and reconciliation as essential for lasting peace.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in a mid-November 2023 address to parliament, urged support for the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission. He highlighted the importance of assisting the commission for the benefit of citizens and the country, emphasizing that missing this opportunity would be regrettable.

For the success of transitional justice and inclusive national dialogue, inclusivity, transparency, accountability for past human rights violations, and ensuring equal access to justice are imperative. Political will and sustained commitment from all political actors are also crucial.

Transitional justice, as explained by Mareshet Tadesse, a member of the transitional justice working group at the Ministry of Justice, involves measures such as judicial processes, truth commissions, and reparations programs. In Ethiopia's context, Tadesse notes, a comprehensive and impartial transitional justice policy is vital to address the history of violence among political elites and its impact on civilians.

As Ethiopia advances on its path to peace, the resilience of its people and the commitment of its leaders are pivotal. Through transitional justice and national dialogue, Ethiopia is adopting values of accountability, reconciliation, and unity, marking a new chapter in its history. This journey symbolizes the nation's spirit and commitment to a future characterized by harmony, equality, and shared prosperity.