Tigray Media Professionals Urge Return of Displaced Peoples Before National Consultation Begins in the region.

Tigray media professionals have called for the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees to their home villages prior to the commencement of the National Consultative Commission’s activities in the region.

During a recent forum, Tigrayan media professionals urged the Ethiopian National Consultative Commission to prioritize the return of displaced Tigrayans to their home villages before initiating the consultation process in the region. They also called for the restoration of Tigray’s territorial integrity, the resolution of existential threats, and the full implementation of the Pretoria Agreement, which aims to end the prolonged devastating war.

While acknowledging that the Commission lacks the mandate to directly resolve these issues, officials noted that it can serve as a platform to exert pressure on the government to take action. “We understand the Commission’s limitations,” said one media representative, “but it can still play a vital role in advocating for solutions.”

Dr. Ambaye Ogato, Commissioner of the National Consultative Commission and lead facilitator of the discussion, stated, “We are facing a difficult situation as a country, but we recognize that the circumstances in Tigray require a distinct approach.”

He stressed that dialogue remains the key to resolving national challenges and encouraged media professionals to help foster communication. “We value the concerns raised by the people of Tigray,” Dr. Ambaye said. “Our goal is to create an environment where these issues can be addressed meaningfully, and we are committed to strengthening that effort.”

Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya, also present at the forum, affirmed that the Commission’s next major focus will be the Tigray region. “We cannot proceed with the consultation process without the full participation of Tigray,” he said.

Professor Mesfin further noted that the Commission has finalized an agenda compiled from Ethiopia’s 11 regional states, two city administrations, federal institutions, and diaspora communities.