INTER-RELIGIOUS COUNCIL OF ETHIOPIA CONDEMNS KILLINGS

The Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia released statement by first condemning the killings that targeted innocent civilians throughout the country and expressed its condolences.

The Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia also said that it is deeply saddened by the conflict that erupted between the federal government and the Tigray region government.

The council said “We would like to remind you that war is destructive. It is the worst option to resort to due to its human and economic cost. Especially, when two brothers are fighting, no one comes out the winner.”

In the statement, the council urged the federal government and Tigray regional state to prioritise the safety of citizens and stability of the nation.

(1) The council called for an immediate cease fire without any preconditions;

(2) It called for a dialogue between the federal government and TPLF;

(3) It called for religious leaders to meditate to bring peace;

(4) It called upon elders, mothers and influential people to push for reconciliation;

(5) It called for media groups to report the situation with utmost caution and with the highest sense of responsibility;

(6) It called on the youth to refrain from using ways that will fuel the conflict;

(7) It called on security personnel to handle the situation with wisdom and patience;

(8) It called upon social media activists to work for peace instead of fueling the conflict.

Meanwhile, the UN Secretary-General [Antonio Guterres] has expressed his alarm over the reported armed clashes in the Tigray region of Ethiopia and calls for immediate measures to de-escalate tensions and ensure a peaceful resolution to the dispute. He underlines the importance of the stability of Ethiopia for the Horn of Africa region.

The Secretary-General renews the commitment of the United Nations, with its partners in the region, to support the Government of Ethiopia in its reform efforts aimed at building a peaceful and secure future for all its peoples.