Gedion Betsega
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Since April 2023, the Amhara region has been engulfed in a devastating conflict between the Fano militia and the Ethiopian government. The toll on the people of Amhara is beyond comprehension, with countless deaths, injuries, displacements, and widespread property damage. Yet, the broader humanitarian crisis, which has extended far beyond the immediate impact of the fighting, continues to deepen. The conflict has worsened the suffering of the people, leaving them to grapple with severe shortages of food, water, shelter, and medical care, particularly in displacement camps where overcrowding and lack of basic services are rampant. The economic devastation is equally dire: destroyed infrastructure, disrupted agricultural production, and limited access to markets have left many without livelihoods, further exacerbating food insecurity and poverty.
The security situation in the Amhara region has deteriorated to alarming levels. Armed clashes have resulted in civilian casualties, and reports of human rights abuses—ranging from extrajudicial killings to sexual violence—only add to the region’s suffering. The loss of life and destruction of property are compounded by a breakdown in law and order, fostering an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. The psychological toll of the conflict is equally grave, with widespread trauma, anxiety, and depression affecting both individuals and communities. Social trust has eroded, ethnic divisions have deepened, and the very fabric of society has been torn apart.
In light of these challenges, the question arises: Is the government truly ready for peace talks with the Fano militias? While Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Amhara Regional President Arega Kebede have periodically appeared on national television, declaring their willingness to engage in peace talks, the key question remains whether these declarations are backed by concrete actions. To date, there has been no formal response from Fano leadership to these televised calls. However, the essence of peace talks is not in public announcements, but in the genuine readiness of the government to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Internationally, peace talks between governments and armed groups are guided by several principles, including mutual agreement, commitment to peaceful resolution, inclusivity, and guarantees for the implementation of any agreements. These criteria help frame the process, but ultimately, the success of peace talks hinges on the government’s actions, not just its rhetoric.
For peace talks to succeed, both parties—government and armed group—must acknowledge each other’s legitimacy and show a willingness to engage in dialogue. The international community’s support, including the backing of the UN and regional organizations, often plays a crucial role in facilitating such discussions. However, without a clear commitment to reducing hostilities and moving toward a political solution rather than a military victory, peace talks are likely to falter.
Moreover, effective peace talks require clear objectives and realistic expectations. Negotiations should address key issues such as power-sharing, security arrangements, economic recovery, and justice for victims. The process must be inclusive, meaning that marginalized groups—women, youth, and civil society—should also have a voice in shaping the future of the region. Furthermore, guarantees for the implementation of agreements, such as monitoring mechanisms and external support from international organizations, are essential to ensure that both sides follow through.
So, what has the Ethiopian government done to signal its readiness for peace with the Fano? The recent peace talks with the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) underlined that formal negotiations are possible, even with armed groups previously seen as adversaries. Just recently, Sagni Nagasa, the former OLA commander, signed a peace agreement with the Oromia Regional Government. The agreement outlined specific provisions for combatants and laid the groundwork for a peaceful future. This demonstrates that the government can indeed engage in talks that result in tangible agreements.
If the Ethiopian government is truly committed to peace in the Amhara region, it must go beyond televised calls for dialogue. Like the OLA, the Fano must be engaged through formal channels, with clear provisions and actionable steps. Peace in Amhara will not be achieved through rhetoric alone; it will require concrete commitments, from both the government and the Fano, to cease hostilities and begin the long, difficult process of rebuilding a shattered region. Only then can the plights of the Amhara people begin to diminish, and a sustainable peace process take root.
It is time for the government to demonstrate, through action, that it is truly ready for peace. Until then, the suffering of the Amhara people will continue to worsen, with no end in sight.
Editor’s note : Views in the article do not necessarily reflect the views of borkena.com
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