The African Union and United Nations organizations appreciated Ethiopia's release of political prisoners as a move to lasting peace.

On Saturday, African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat expressed pleasure on the release of political opposition figures detained in Ethiopia. 

In his statement, the Chairperson described the release as “gesture of appeasement” of the political situation in the country. 

The chairperson perceived the measure to be a triggering factor for a political process, paving the way for the implementation of a genuinely inclusive National Dialogue process for the peaceful and consensual solution to the political and institutional problems facing the state.

He further encouraged all actors to engage in it with courage and determination while assuring them, of the resolute support of the African Union.

On the same lines, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on political actors to use the opportunity to cease hostility ensure enduring peace.

“I call upon the parties to build on this significant confidence-building step by agreeing a cessation of hostilities and a lasting ceasefire, as well as launching a credible and inclusive national dialogue and reconciliation process,” he said.

He also expressed determination to support stakeholders in assisting Ethiopia to bring an end to the fighting and to restore peace and stability. 

The Secretary-General stated that he looks forward to a meaningful improvement in humanitarian access to all areas affected by the year-long conflict.