AMN Plus-July 15, 2026
Addressing the historic opening ceremony of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) emphasized that the success of the dialogue depends on a genuine commitment to listening to one another, understanding differing perspectives, and addressing the concerns of all sides with respect and sincerity.
The Prime Minister highlighted the wisdom of Afar elders as an important guide toward achieving a collective solution that serves the interests of the nation. He recalled the traditional saying: “You cannot understand the challenges of the other side while remaining in your own place; you must rise, go, and listen to what the other side thinks and what questions they have.”
Prime Minister Abiy stressed that building a stronger Ethiopia requires embracing every voice and ensuring that all communities are heard equally. He particularly called on the larger communities, including the Oromo and Amhara, to listen carefully to the concerns and aspirations of their fellow Ethiopians.
“You cannot sustain Ethiopia if you do not listen to the Dassanech, the Konso, and the Ale,” the Prime Minister said, cautioning that dialogue cannot succeed if any group seeks to impose its will solely based on numerical strength rather than mutual respect and understanding.
The Prime Minister further underscored that the National Dialogue will achieve meaningful results only when all participants pursue common benefits, ensuring that the interests of one group do not come at the expense of another.
The Prime Minister concluded by calling for a spirit of collective responsibility, urging Ethiopians to embrace the principle: “Not for me, but for us; not for my neighborhood, but for Ethiopia.”
By Misganaw Fentaw
