“A Dialogue Process That Excludes Tigray Cannot Be Complete” – Chief Commissioner Mesfin Araya
Mekelle, July 30, 2025
A delegation from the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC), led by Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya, arrived in Mekelle on July 29, 2025, to hold discussions with the Interim Administration of the Tigray Region.
In a briefing held during the visit, Professor Mesfin emphasized the importance of an inclusive national dialogue, stating, “A dialogue process that excludes the Tigray region cannot be complete or perfect.” He explained that the purpose of the visit was to assess the current realities on the ground in Tigray in order to inform the Commission’s engagement in the region.
Highlighting the Commission’s objectives, the Chief Commissioner noted that root causes of conflict are being identified, and efforts are underway to facilitate a comprehensive dialogue aimed at achieving national consensus. He added that all stakeholders willing to engage in the process will be included.
Acknowledging the devastation and social crises caused by the recent war in the region, Professor Mesfin expressed his deep sorrow. He further noted that before any dialogue initiatives begin in Tigray, the Commission will conduct a series of consultative meetings with key stakeholders to ensure a grounded and realistic approach.
The Chief Commissioner also thanked the Interim Administration of Tigray for its openness and for granting the Commission the opportunity to meet the region’s interim administration.
Lieutenant General Tadesse Worede, President of the Tigray Interim Administration, welcomed the ENDC team and expressed support for the national dialogue initiative, describing it as timely and essential for peace in Ethiopia. He stressed the importance of building trust and fully considering the region’s post-war realities in the Commission’s work.
He also highlighted the need to halt hate speech and divisive propaganda in the media and pointed out several key responsibilities that must be fulfilled by the federal government to ensure the success of the dialogue.
Cabinet members of the Interim Administration echoed the President’s sentiments, underscoring that a true understanding of the region’s post-war context is essential for any meaningful dialogue. They also presented issues they believe should be addressed for the Commission’s initiatives to succeed.
ENDC stated that it will continue engaging with a wide range of stakeholders in the region before formally launching the dialogue process. Feedback gathered during the consultations will guide how the Commission tailors its approach to the specific realities of the Tigray region.
