Addis Ababa, June 8, 2026 (FMC) — The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF), a political organization based in Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State, has rejected reports alleging its affiliation with armed groups, reaffirming its commitment to the 2018 peace agreement signed with the Ethiopian government.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the ONLF said it remains fully committed to implementing all provisions of the peace agreement in good faith, while expressing its expectation that the Ethiopian government will likewise uphold its obligations under the accord.
The party described the peace agreement signed in Asmara on October 21, 2018, as the cornerstone of the peace and stability currently enjoyed in the Somali Regional State, saying it has contributed significantly to regional development and broader stability across the Horn of Africa.
According to the statement, the ONLF opposes any actions that could undermine the peace, stability and development achieved in the region, stressing that it remains committed to pursuing the rights, interests and aspirations of the people of the Somali Regional State through peaceful and democratic means based on dialogue.
The party also denied entering into any alliance with organizations seeking to overthrow the current Ethiopian government, stating that its objectives have never included removing the ruling government or participating in armed efforts to seize state power.
“The ONLF has no affiliation, cooperation or involvement with armed groups engaged in conflict against the Ethiopian government,” the statement said.
The organization further alleged that its name has been used without authorization by its former chairman, Abdirahman Mahdi, whom it said no longer represents the party following leadership changes made during the ONLF Congress held in Jigjiga in June 2025.
According to the statement, Abdikarim Sheikh Muse was elected chairman during the congress, replacing Abdirahman Mahdi. The party said any statements or actions undertaken by Mahdi after his removal reflect his personal views and not the official position of the ONLF.
The ONLF also clarified that the X account @ONLFofficial is not an official communication channel of the party, alleging that it is operated personally by Mahdi and does not represent the organization’s official policies or positions.
The party called on supporters, media organizations and the public to rely only on officially authorized channels for information regarding its activities and official positions.