Addis Ababa, July 24, 2025 (FMC) – The Ministry of Peace has underscored the vital role of political parties in fostering lasting peace and national consensus in Ethiopia.
The remarks were delivered during the opening of the national peace conference held yesterday in Addis Ababa. The event was jointly organized by the Ministry of Peace and the Joint Council of Ethiopian Political Parties under the theme, “The Role of Political Parties in Enhancing Peace.”
The conference convened senior government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, Chairman of the Joint Council of Ethiopian Political Parties Solomon Ayele, alongside leaders of various political parties and democratic institutions.
Minister of Peace Mohamed Idris, addressing the gathering, highlighted the substantial efforts made to promote unity and stability across the country. He emphasized that political parties are key actors in the nation’s peacebuilding and consensus-building processes.
“The role of political parties is central to achieving sustainable peace and a shared national vision,” the minister stated. He added that since the political reforms, the government has pursued a national roadmap aimed at building consensus on fundamental issues and fostering enduring peace.
The minister further noted that the Ministry of Peace has been actively collaborating with various stakeholders to implement peacebuilding initiatives, with political parties serving as vital partners. He cited that peace has been restored in several regions through dialogue and effective law enforcement strategies.
Speaking at the event, Solomon Ayele reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to strengthening democratic systems and consolidating peace. He stressed that political parties must lead in promoting a democratic culture grounded in the rule of law and the power of ideas.
“Peace is the foundation of security for individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole,” Solomon remarked. “A peaceful nation is a stable nation, and stable democratic institutions are essential for political stability and state-building.”
He also highlighted the importance of a free, fair, and democratic electoral process as a prerequisite for sustainable development and lasting peace.
The Chairman noted that recent political reforms have opened valuable opportunities for collaboration among political parties on national issues. This spirit of cooperation, he said, has strengthened the Joint Council’s role in advancing Ethiopia’s democratic institutions — a role the Council is determined to continue and expand.
Solomon concluded by emphasizing the critical importance of political parties in preventing conflict and nurturing an inclusive, peaceful political environment, which serves as the backbone of a resilient democracy.