Kenya calls for immediate cessation of hostilities in Ethiopia

The government of Kenya has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Ethiopia and pursuit of a political solution to what it describes as a problem of political and civilian character.

In statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, the government appealed to all friends and partners of Ethiopia to redouble their efforts to help the country’s citizens find lasting peace.

The government termed the ongoing deterioration of the situation in Ethiopia and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF)'s expansion from Tigray to Afar and Amhara regions as highly regrettable and deeply concerning.

The statement highlighted five key issues which it attributes partly to regional and international partners.

1. All hostilities must cease and desist immediately
2. The primacy of a political solution to a problem of political and civilian character must be upheld.
3. Inciting ordinary civilians into the conflict must be shunned in order to avoid escalation of hostilities and the danger of fragmentation of the country.
4. The humanitarian situation of all, including the people of Tigray, must be addressed. Parties to the conflict must ensure unfettered access for humanitarian assistance. The protection of Ethiopian civilians and humanitarian aid workers must be guaranteed.
5. Human rights must be upheld and respected, for all and by all.

“The restoration of a state of normalcy for Ethiopia and for its affected immediate neighbours is critical and urgent,” read the statement.

“Kenya reassures the people of Ethiopia of its commitment towards a peaceful, stable and united Ethiopia.”