On the formation of the Alliance

The Ethiopian Women for Peace and Development (EWPD) has been following the news on the development of the Alliance for Freedom and Democracy (AFD) that is created by ethnic-based liberation fronts and other opposition groups.  We have interest in the formation of the Alliance in the hope that a meaningful dialogue would start between the government and the opposition groups. .

While the formation of AFD is encouraging, dialogue with political groups that did not join the Alliance must continue.  The goal of the Alliance, as we understand, is to convene an all-inclusive peace and reconciliation conference that includes the government.  This requires the political will and commitment to peace by all groups. It is only through the active engagement of dialogue that not only we reconcile with our past but also chart the future to create a just society.

Our organization has been calling for an all-inclusive political dialogue since the London conference in July 1991.  Similarly, in the current political situation, all-inclusive dialogue is imperative in order to avoid repeating mistakes.

The Ethiopian people have suffered for too long because of the lack of good governance, continuous political turmoil, wars, poverty, and human rights abuses. A government that respects the rights of its citizens and upholds the rule of law would help establish a democratic society, address the chronic economic problem and alleviate the misery of the people.  Without such a government, peace in the country and in the region will remain an illusion.  We, therefore, call upon the opposition groups and the government to make the proposed peace and reconciliation conference a reality.

EWPD believes that credible civic organizations must be involved in the process for peace and reconciliation. Civic organizations play vital roles in educating the public and building a democratic culture in which political differences can be solved with dialogue and negotiations.  We, therefore, urge all Ethiopian civic organizations, especially women’s organizations and women leaders within the country and in the Diaspora, to get involved and assist in the peace and reconciliation process.  In the final analysis, our goal must be to build a democratic and just society for a lasting peace to prevail in Ethiopia.  Without peace, there will not be sustainable development in the country.

Our appeal also goes to the international community to support the peace and reconciliation effort. The Ethiopian government must be urged to free all political prisoners and open dialogue with the opposition groups. An all-inclusive conference for peace and reconciliation that will include the government is a step in the right direction and must be supported by all people who stand for peace.