Ethiopian govt welcomes peace initiative by rebel group

ADDIS ABABA, July 16, 2005 (ENA) — The Ministry of Federal Affairs disclosed that the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONFL) — rebel group operating in eastern Ethiopia — expressing willingness to exert efforts for peace by operating in full recognition and compliance with the constitution, has asked the government to support it.

The ministry said the government responded positively to the call of the ONFL, provided that the party would be true to its expressed readiness to further its objectives only through peaceful means and in adherence to the constitution.

Community elders and clan leaders have requested the government for its readiness to hold discussions with ONFL to support its efforts and help it realize its peace initiatives, the ministry said in a statement.

It said that the prime minister communicated back with a written response in which he said the federal government commends that community elders and clan leaders have taken a peaceful initiative and this would enable to strengthen peace in the area and make the people beneficiaries of good governance and development.

The prime minister, in his letter, assured that the federal government will support the peaceful efforts of the elders and clan chiefs consulting with the party officials both in the country and abroad.