The Atlanta Chapter of Ethiopian National Transitional Council on Sunday, March 17, 2013, hosted a discussion on the planned all inclusive conference in July 2013 being organized in Washington DC to explore the removal and replacement of the repressive TPLF/EPRDF regime by an all-inclusive Ethiopian Transitional Government.
After welcoming the participants and making brief remarks, Chairman of ENTC-Atlanta, Ato Fasil Kasegne, introduced the guest speakers, Aba Gebreselassie from the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, and Dr Fisseha Eshetu, Secretary General of ENTC. A representatives from the Muslim community was invited but was unable to come due to schedule conflict.
In his brief speech, Aba Gebreselassie urged political parties and opposition politicians to reconcile their differences for the sake of the suffering people of Ethiopia, but rejected any call for reconciliation with the TPLF/EPRDF regime.
Dr Fisseha explained that at the July 2013 conference ENTC will present a concrete proposal on how to remove the regime and form a transitional government, and indicated that this will be an excellent opportunity for all stakeholders to present their respective alternative ideas, plans, or proposals. He said that it is imperative for the conference to have the input of all political parties, civic and religious groups, scholars, elder statesmen, and other stakeholders.
Following Dr Fisseha’s presentation, a lively discussion took place. While everyone supported the July 2013 Conference on Transitional Government, some participants expressed their reservation that it might turn out to be just another political meeting. Dr Fisseha assured the participants that the July Conference will discuss and come up with concrete and implementable solutions that will be acceptable to all stakeholders. .
Similar town hall meeting are being organized in several cities around the world in the coming weeks.
ENTC is looking for volunteers to help with the July 2013 Conference. Please call 1-202-735-4262 / +44-7958-487-420 or write to [email protected]