ADDIS ABABA — World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has urged Ethiopia’s federal government and regional leaders to pursue dialogue and political solutions instead of continued armed conflict.
In a statement shared on social media, Dr. Tedros called on authorities to “choose dialogue over guns” and seek genuine political solutions to the country’s ongoing conflicts.
He warned that continued fighting brings death, destruction, displacement and deprivation, saying Ethiopians deserve a better future based on peace and stability.
Dr. Tedros said fighting in the Amhara region has continued for three years, while violence in Oromia continues to claim lives. He also warned that Tigray could once again face open conflict, while pointing to continuing insecurity in Afar and Benishangul-Gumuz.
The WHO chief previously faced strong criticism from Ethiopian government officials during the 2020–2022 Tigray war after repeatedly calling for an end to the fighting and raising concerns over civilian suffering.
In his latest appeal, Dr. Tedros renewed his call for an end to violence, stressing that Ethiopia’s political challenges cannot be solved through military confrontation alone.
“Ethiopia needs peace, not more war,” Dr. Tedros said, adding: “Enough.”
He concluded with a message to Ethiopia’s leaders and citizens:
“Ethiopians deserve better.”
His comments come amid continued political and security challenges across several regions, increasing calls for dialogue, reconciliation and peaceful political solutions.
