In a bid aimed to addressing the escalating conflict in Ethiopia, United States Ambassador Ervin J. Massinga has issued a fervent call for immediate action. Here’s a breakdown of the key points outlined in his statement:
Massinga’s foremost appeal is for all parties embroiled in the conflict to institute a “temporary nationwide ceasefire.” The objective behind this plea is twofold: to halt the bloodshed and create an environment conducive to constructive dialogue and negotiation.
Underlining the paramount importance of inclusive political dialogue, the ambassador has urged all stakeholders to partake in meaningful discussions. The ultimate aim is to tackle the root causes of the conflict and chart a course towards sustainable peace.
Addressing the Oromo Liberation Army in the Oromia region directly, Massinga acknowledged their participation in negotiations held in Dar es Salaam. He implored them to persevere in their pursuit of peace and emphasized the criticality of rebuilding trust and prioritizing peace over discord.
Expressing profound concern for the plight of innocent civilians ensnared in the crossfire, Massinga shed light on the profound suffering inflicted by ongoing hostilities across various regions of Ethiopia. The toll on civilian lives underscores the urgent imperative for cessation of violence.
In a pointed message directed at the TPLF, Massinga urged a shift away from coercive tactics aimed at territorial gains. Instead, he stressed the imperative of engaging in inclusive dialogue to address issues pertinent to internally displaced persons (IDPs) through dignified processes.
Massinga’s missive to the Ethiopian government resonated with a clear directive: prioritizing peace over military triumphs. Emphasizing that a security-centric approach alone cannot surmount Ethiopia’s multifaceted political quagmire, he underscored the pressing need for dialogue.
As a potential catalyst for constructive engagement, Massinga proposed the release of key political figures. Their involvement, he posited, could serve as a catalyst for bridging divides and fostering reconciliation amidst a fraught political landscape.