The unfolding peace talks in Dar es Salaam between the Ethiopian government and the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) signal a pivotal moment in Ethiopia’s quest to resolve long-standing conflicts. However, this beacon of hope is shadowed by a conspicuous omission: the Amhara community, a group that has borne the brunt of the OLF’s military campaigns since the group’s resurgence from Eritrea, remains excluded from the dialogue table.

Historically, the OLF’s arrival in Eritrea marked the beginning of a tumultuous era for the Amhara, who found themselves victims of ensuing conflicts. The Pretoria agreement, hailed as a milestone, fell short of inclusivity, sidelining key stakeholders such as the Afar and Amhara. This grave oversight precipitated a resurgence of hostilities, underscoring the fragility of agreements crafted in partiality.

As the second round of talks commence with OLA’s Commander Kumsa Diriba at the helm, it’s critical to reflect on past missteps. The Pretoria agreement’s failure serves as a stark reminder that peace procured without comprehensive representation is ephemeral. By excluding the Amhara, the government not only perpetuates a cycle of incomplete resolutions but also sows seeds for potential discord.

The repercussions of this exclusion extend beyond immediate peace efforts; they strike at the very heart of national unity and stability. Sustainable peace is not achieved through selective engagement but through an unreserved commitment to addressing the grievances and aspirations of all communities. The Amhara’s absence from the peace talks not only delegitimizes the process but also jeopardizes the prospect of lasting reconciliation.

It is imperative that the Ethiopian government and its international partners heed the lessons of the past. Inclusivity is not a mere idealistic principle but a pragmatic requisite for enduring peace. The government must broaden its diplomatic embrace to include the Amhara, ensuring that their voice and concerns are integral to the dialogue.

In conclusion, as the Ethiopian government seeks to navigate its way out of conflict, it must not repeat the oversights of the Pretoria agreement. The exclusion of the Amhara from the peace talks in Dar es Salaam is not simply a matter of oversight; it is a critical flaw that endangers the whole peace process. A truly comprehensive and representative approach is the only pathway to a peace that is both equitable and lasting. The call for an inclusive dialogue is not just a demand for fairness; it is a plea for a future where all Ethiopians can coexist in harmony.