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It has been over two weeks since we embarked on a mediation task to reconcile the differences between the ENA and ELF-RC. We understand that many concerned Eritreans are awaiting our declaration of success. So far, we have been talking to many people from the two sides: leadership, senior cadres and supporters. With the exception of some who have tried to escalate the problem, the majority is determined to bring about a resolution to the problem. We urge those who are needlessly escalating the situation to refrain from complicating the issue. Their emotional outbursts are contributing to the polarization of the opposition forces. We urge the ENA and the ELF-RC to show restraint and wisdom in order to bring about a swift solution to their problems. 

The fissure between ENA and ELF-RC has been a disappointment to many Eritreans and we share their sense of disappointment.   Eritreans expect the opposition to address Eritrea�s problems, and not add to them.   

It is still our wish that the parties resolve their problems on their own. The second best thing is to have an Eritrean reconciliation team mediate among Eritreans rather than employ 'strangers'.  We understand that we are not a political party, a government or a group with a specific mandate, we believe we have enough goodwill to help resolve the issue. However, we do not wish the misunderstanding to stay unresolved for a long time and become a de-facto divorce. We do not wish the misunderstanding to have a life of its own and become �The Addis Peace Process.�  We do not wish to be entangled in the mediation initiative indefinitely and without any time frame.    

We would like to inform you that though we had a voice of dissent among our team disapproving of the mediation task, the majority prevailed and we started the mediation initiative. We believe that if there is no swift and amicable resolution, the fissure will have far-reaching and negative consequences in the struggle against the tyrannical government of Eritrea. 

Ultimately, it is up to the two parties to decide whether, how or when they will resolve their differences or not.  The Awate Team is a team of writers who hold the principle of informing the public very dearly. This is the reason we exist as a team. In any event and however the issue is handled, the Awate Team owes its readers full disclosure of the events, as we understand them, which it will do within a short period.  We take this opportunity to thank our readers who have expressed their messages of goodwill.  

Thank you