Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has described Ethiopia’s National Dialogue as a historic opportunity to address challenges accumulated over generations and establish a new common social contract through inclusive consultation and national consensus.
The Prime Minister made the remarks while responding to questions from members of the House of Peoples’ Representatives during its 30th regular sitting of the fifth year of its tenure.
He said the National Dialogue represents a broader national undertaking that extends beyond resolving current political disagreements, emphasizing that its purpose is to address deep-rooted challenges that have shaped Ethiopia’s history and chart a shared path forward.
“The opportunity for consultation that has been obtained today has come at a cost paid by many and should not be taken lightly,” the Prime Minister said, calling on all stakeholders to make constructive use of the process.
Prime Minister Abiy said the dialogue is not intended to correct the mistakes of a particular government or political group, but rather to address accumulated national issues and create a foundation for a renewed relationship among citizens and institutions.
He explained that constitutional provisions that have positively served the country and its people will be maintained, while those requiring reform can be amended through a process that protects the interests and rights of all and strengthens national unity.
The Prime Minister said the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has been given additional time to ensure that the process is conducted carefully and inclusively rather than being rushed.
He described the National Dialogue as a significant process that could provide lessons beyond Ethiopia, noting that its foundation lies in organized participation and ideas emerging from communities across the country.
Prime Minister Abiy also called on political actors, including opposition groups and Ethiopians living abroad, to contribute constructively to the process. He said the ideas generated through the consultation will be organized by the Commission and presented for consideration, enabling the country to reach consensus on areas requiring improvement.