Politics

ONLF Defends Participation in Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Process

AI SUMMARY

The ONLF has defended its active participation in Ethiopia's national dialogue, while rejecting reports of an alliance with the 'Tsamdo' group.

The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) stated it played an active role in Ethiopia’s national dialogue process to advance key issues affecting the Somali community.
ONLF Chairman Abdikarim Sheikh Muse Qalbidagah stated that the national dialogue was launched to address longstanding structural challenges in Ethiopia.
Qalbidagah rejected reports claiming the organization had formed an alliance with a group referred to as 'Tsamdo'.
The ONLF accused unnamed forces of attempting to undermine peace and vowed to oppose efforts that could return the region to conflict.
Qalbidagah emphasized that the ONLF ended its armed struggle in response to the Ethiopian government’s peace appeal following political changes.
The organization subsequently participated in Ethiopia’s seventh general election and pursued peaceful political engagement.
The ONLF expressed its readiness to work with the federal government and stakeholders to strengthen durable peace.
The chairman accused former Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) leaders of contributing to historical instability in the Somali Regional State and attempting to create ongoing security problems.