Parties agree on peace pact

2005-06-14 20:36

Addis Ababa - Ethiopia's main opposition leader was freed from house arrest on Tuesday after the country's main political parties agreed to work together for peace after 10 days of political unrest.

Hailu Shawel, the leader of the opposition Coalition for Unity and Democracy (CUD), said he was told his house arrest was lifted after two days of talks mediated by the European Union (EU).

"This is a breakthrough and should now get the political process back on track," said European Commission ambassador Tim Clarke, who mediated the talks.

The agreement lays the groundwork for all political parties to play a role in the investigations of complaints over the elections.

Although the three main political parties signed up to a non-violence pact on Friday, the deal foundered after the opposition imposed conditions they have now retracted.

But tensions still remain and political parties are expected to meet on Wednesday to continue discussions on improving relations amid allegations of killings and mass arrests of opposition supporters.

Prime Minister Meles Zenawi announced on state television late on Monday that a ban on demonstrations would be extended for another month.

"I also instruct peacekeeping forces to carry out their obligations during this month with patience and without undue force in a bid to reduce any danger," he said.

- AP