IGAD 'optimistic' for future Ethiopia-Oromo rebel talks

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) said on Wednesday it was "optimistic" about further talks between Ethiopia's government and the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) despite the latest mediation ending without agreement.

The second round of peace negotiations between Addis Ababa and the OLA, a rebel group from Ethiopia's restive Oromia region, failed to reach an outcome despite the support of IGAD and international partners.

The Ethiopian government on Tuesday disclosed the collapse of the two-week-long peace negotiations aimed at resolving the prolonged conflict in the Oromo region.

Redwan Hussein, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s national security adviser, confirmed the conclusion of the talks in Dar es Salaam, emphasizing that no agreement was reached.

Both sides accused each other of obstructing progress at the unsuccessful talks hosted in Tanzania aimed at ending a bloody five-year insurgency marked by ethnic massacres of civilians.

Commitment to peace

IGAD's executive secretary Workneh Gebeyehu appealed to the parties "to uphold their commitment to the peace process in the best interest of the people of Ethiopia".

"Dr Workneh is optimistic that the two sides will initiate a new round of talks to address and resolve the remaining issues," IGAD said in a statement.

"IGAD will continue to remain seized of the situation and stands ready to provide unwavering support to both sides in their pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the situation."

The OLF is said to have presented proposals aiming for "a substantial shift in governance," advocating for inclusive governance and the participation of all political parties from the Oromo region.

The government focused on arrangements exclusively with OLA, echoing the Pretoria Cessation of Hostilities Agreement signed with the TPLF in November last year, according to sources.

This marks the second instance where talks between the Addis government and the OLF have been inconclusive.

Additional reporting by AFP