National Dialogue Commission Rebuffs Exclusion Claims, Reaffirms Equal Voice and Independent Process

Addis Ababa, August 17, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Commission has reaffirmed that the national dialogue process has continued to operate independently, impartially and inclusively, with participants’ complaints and concerns being addressed as the four-week conference advances toward building consensus on the country’s deep-rooted political and social differences.

In a statement issued today on the independence, inclusivity and participation of the process, the Commission said the National Dialogue represents a historic opportunity for Ethiopia to address its complex political and social differences through peaceful dialogue and lay foundations for lasting peace, consensus and democratic governance.

The Commission said the conference, which officially began on July 15, has been proceeding in accordance with an independently developed working system and plan. It stressed that the process is not a platform for advancing the political agenda of any political party, government institution or particular group, but rather a national forum where diverse interests and positions can be presented on an equal footing and common ground pursued through dialogue.

Acknowledging that the process has faced challenges, the Commission said progress has also been made through efforts to address shortcomings and respond to grievances raised by both participants and the Commission itself.

The statement came in response to a recent position by the National Movement of Amhara (NaMA), which questioned the inclusivity and participatory nature of the process. The Commission said it had reviewed and verified the matter and did not share the party’s conclusion.

It said representatives of diverse sections of society, political parties, institutions and associations, federal, regional and city administrations, prominent Ethiopians, former armed groups, the diaspora community and other stakeholders are represented in the conference, with their voices being heard and incorporated into the process.

The Commission also noted that NaMA itself remains among the political parties actively participating in the dialogue.

It emphasized that no participant’s complaint or grievance is treated lightly, saying concerns raised by NaMA and other stakeholders are being addressed through the established grievance-resolution mechanism. Constructive feedback that can improve the health and effectiveness of the dialogue, it added, remains welcome and will be considered as an input to the process.

The Commission called on NaMA and other stakeholders to remain actively engaged throughout the remaining stages of the dialogue and work together toward building common understanding.

It further stressed that national dialogue should not be viewed as a victory for one side or a defeat for another, but as a process through which Ethiopia can pursue common solutions to challenges confronting the country and seek an outcome in which all sides can emerge as beneficiaries.

Reaffirming its commitment to listening equally to the voices of all citizens and participants and to steering the process independently and impartially, the Commission called on the Ethiopian people, political parties, civil society organizations and other institutions to sustain their positive contributions to the success of the national dialogue.