Addis Ababa, August 28, 2025 (FMC) — Former combatants must seek to make amends with their communities by dedicating themselves to lasting peace and meaningful development, Amhara Region Deputy Chief Administrator and Head of the Urban and Infrastructure Bureau Ahmedin Mohammed has said.
Speaking at the launch of a rehabilitation training program for ex-combatants in North Shewa Zone, held at the Debre Birhan Temporary Demobilization Center, Ahmedin stressed that reconciliation requires sustained effort.
The event was attended by senior officials from federal and regional governments, high-ranking officers of the Ethiopian National Defense Force, as well as religious leaders and community elders.
Ahmedin underlined that the regional government is prioritizing durable peace, noting that Ethiopia has consistently pursued dialogue and peaceful solutions to resolve differences.
He lamented that extremist groups, by attempting to impose their political agenda through violence, had caused immense destruction to lives and property.
At the same time, he welcomed the growing number of former fighters who have recognized that violence serves no purpose and chosen to disarm.
Many, he said, have already begun reintegrating into their communities after entering rehabilitation programs.
“These individuals are now entrusted with the responsibility to rebuild trust, foster social harmony, and contribute to sustained development,” Ahmedin stated.
He condemned the extremist group still operating in remote areas, accusing it of committing grave atrocities against religious leaders, community elders, women, and children, acts that he said undermine the values of the Amhara people.
Such violence, he stressed, is morally bankrupt and inflicts severe human and social damage.
The Deputy Chief Administrator further explained that the regional government is implementing a five-year development plan aimed at lifting communities out of poverty and setting them on a path to prosperity.
He called on the public, former combatants, and all stakeholders to actively support this agenda, emphasizing that peace and development must go hand in hand.