The Social Media has been busy reporting about the coming together of leaders of the Oromo Liberation Front (ABO), Oromo Federalist Congress (OFC), members of Civil Society Organizations and community representatives. Some of the Social Media were simply speculating about the encounter in such a way that the outcome would meet their interests. Others were occupied by circulating hearsay may be out of negative intention that may mislead the intended direction. Still a few others condemned out of ulterior motives the very move of the discourse among the two Oromo political parties and other 16 (sixteen) representing different segments (cultural, social, religious and intellectual) of Oromo community. They condemn the deliberations and the resolution possibly in fear of losing the privilege they may enjoy in maintaining the current status quo.
Whatever information may have filled the Social Media, the Assembly finally came up with resolution that summarized the four days of deliberations. The Assembly of delegates of the two parties and Oromo affiliated other entities discussed current problems of the society; the prevailing armed conflict in Oromia; and causes of disruptions of lives and livelihoods in the Region. The discourse held at Ellili Hotel during February 19 – 22, 2025 identified issues that should be addressed without delay for the sake of restoration of peace.
They detailed points over which agreements were finally reached pinpointing each under different headings: Restoration and Preservation of Peace; Resolving outstanding issues that concern the Oromo; Protection of the Rights of Nations, Nationalities and Peoples who Live in Oromia; and Relationship between Government of Oromia and the Federal Government.
Regarding the urgent need of restoration of peace, they agreed that violence in Oromia Region should stop and peaceful life of the people should be protected. To this effect, they entrusted ABO and OFC leaders to do all they could to fulfill their duties. In addition, the resolution of the Assembly states that participating parties mandated the two parties to form a Transitional Government that involves all political parties of Oromia and concerned bodies for a limited period to provide the necessary social services until the Oromo people elect Oromia Regional Government freely and democratically.
The encouraging point is the fact that the two parties and other concerned Oromo entities freely discussed on the critical matters affecting lives of the people throughout the Region. We believe, things would be cleared in the course of applying points of the resolution in the time frame to be agree upon given several current political agenda on hand. All the efforts to be exerted to meet expectations in line with the set direction should lead to sustainable peace with application of principles of rule of law, human rights and good governance. The CDG shall collaborate as much as it could with all concerned towards attainment of these fundamental issues and promotes peaceful resolution of conflicts and all inconclusive dialogue for sustainable peace and development.