The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) declared on October 20, 2024, that it would no longer engage in the ongoing Ethiopian National Dialogue process, citing concerns over the process being “non-inclusive” and lacking in “openness.”
In their official announcement, the ONLF strongly criticized the ruling Somali region’s party for allegedly undermining the dialogue by “unilaterally choosing participants,” which they argue breaches the earlier agreements with political factions and “ignores diverse perspectives.”
The ONLF believes that this “exclusive method” contradicts the main objective of the dialogue, which is designed to “gather all relevant parties to address deep-seated conflicts.”
The group also pointed out that the dialogue process is incomplete without the inclusion of key actors from the Amhara, Oromia, and Tigray regions, particularly as conflicts persist in those areas. This absence, they say, renders the dialogue “one-sided and ineffective in achieving true peace.”
At the same time, the National Dialogue Commission has been conducting meetings to collect agenda items in the Somali region.
Mesfin Araya, the Chief Commissioner, mentioned that since October 14, 2024, over 1,000 community representatives from areas like Jigjiga, Gode, and Dolo Ado have been involved in identifying priorities. He stressed that community participation was “meaningful” and “praiseworthy.”
The discussions in Jigjiga will continue with 100 hand-picked representatives from political groups, government officials, and civil society.
The ONLF’s stance echoes previous criticisms from other political entities, such as the Caucus of Opposition Parties (CoP), a coalition of 11 opposition groups, which accused the Commission of prioritizing political interests over genuine dialogue.
Earlier in 2024, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) voiced similar concerns about the Commission’s operations.
Additionally, the Commission admitted to facing difficulties in certain regions due to ongoing conflicts, particularly in Amhara and Tigray, which have delayed its activities.
The ONLF reiterated their support for a “truly inclusive and open” dialogue but maintained that they will not take part unless the process is restructured.