The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has officially clarified its mandate, stating that the release of prisoners does not fall under its responsibilities. This statement comes in response to repeated public calls and concerns from various stakeholders who have questioned how an inclusive national dialogue can be effectively conducted while political prisoners remain incarcerated.
For months, the Commission has faced pressure to advocate for or facilitate the release of detainees, with many observers arguing that a truly representative dialogue requires the participation of all political actors, including those currently held in custody. Critics have frequently pointed to the lack of prisoner releases as a significant barrier to the credibility and inclusivity of the national reconciliation process.
The Commission’s clarification was issued as it continues its efforts to identify national agenda items. Notably, the Tigray region remains the only area where the agenda identification process has not yet been completed. The Commission has indicated that it is working to address these remaining gaps as it moves forward with its broader mandate.
The National Dialogue Commission was established with the goal of fostering consensus on fundamental national issues and addressing the root causes of conflict in Ethiopia. However, the process has been met with skepticism from various political groups and civil society organizations, many of whom demand broader political space and the release of detainees as a prerequisite for their participation.
As the Commission pushes ahead with its agenda-setting phase, the tension between its stated mandate and the expectations of the public remains a central challenge. The Commission maintains that its focus is on facilitating dialogue rather than intervening in judicial or executive matters regarding the status of detainees.
Source: Telegram / tikvahethiopia