Voting has been taking place across Ethiopia where the 7th General voting process began at dawn. Voters in the Amhara regional capital, Bahir Dar, the Oromia city, Adama, and the Harari capital, Harrar, started voting at daybreak, according to reports. In Bahirdar City, where voting for the 7th General Election began very early in the morning, the residents are casting their votes at polling stations. Voters have been lining up since 6:00 am in the morning, waiting in line to cast their votes. The voting process will continue from dawn to dusk, according to the procedures set by the Ethiopian National Election Board. Similarly, in the Oromia city Adama residents are voting in various polling stations. Along the residents of the city, Mayor Hailu Jelde has participated in the voting.   In his remarks, the mayor said the city residents deserve great praise for bravely coming out to cast their votes despite the cold weather. He expressed his admiration for the commitment and enthusiasm of the electorate at the polling station. The mayor also said that political power is determined by elections and elections alone emphasizing that elections are the main way to strengthen freedom, equality and democracy.   Voting is also underway in Harrar City, capital of Harari region, and in 296 polling stations across the three constituencies. In the 7th Ethiopian General Election a total of over 54 million voters have been registered to participate in the election and 42 political parties are competing in the polls, while 10,438 candidates will contest under party banners and 80 candidates run as independents.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called on political candidates across the spectrum to embrace a profound sense of duty and psychological readiness to match the extraordinary commitment demonstrated by the Ethiopian electorate today. Speaking after casting a ballot in his hometown, Beshasha, the PM emphasized that his primary concern rests not with the voters who have already proven their maturity but with the integrity and dedication of those who will be elected to serve. The Prime Minister observed that long, orderly queues formed at polling stations early in the morning serve as a testament that the Ethiopian people require no external guidance or reprimand to determine their destiny, build their democratic system, and strengthen their statehood. Reflecting on the historic gravity of the polls, PM Abiy stressed that the next five years will usher in a transformative epoch, demanding unprecedented labor, strategic vision, and collective energy to ensure that the country transitions from foreign dependency to becoming a self-reliant, foundational anchor of regional stability. While expressing his personal anxieties regarding whether the elected representatives will possess the requisite purity of heart and relentless work ethic to alter the nation's trajectory, PM Abiy affirmed his readiness to bow to the democratic verdict and gracefully accept the election results. He concluded by extending deep gratitude to the citizenry, electoral officials, and the media, confidently predicting that the foundations of a robust state are being laid so that future generations will never have to stumble through the foundational hurdles faced by their predecessors.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has cast his vote in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election in his hometown Beshasha, joining millions of citizens participating in a vote widely seen as a significant moment in the nation’s democratic journey. The nationwide election is being held with more than 54 million registered voters expected to participate in choosing representatives for the new federal parliament and regional state councils. The Prime Minister’s participation highlights the importance of civic engagement and the role of the ballot box in shaping the nation’s political future. Across Ethiopia, voting began this morning as citizens turned out in large numbers to exercise their democratic rights. Voters are electing representatives from 42 political parties, with over 10,000 candidates competing for public office across approximately 52,000 polling stations established nationwide. Election officials, security personnel, observers, and polling staff have been deployed across the country to facilitate what is considered one of Africa’s largest electoral exercises. Polling stations opened at 6:00 with long queues forming early as citizens participated in shaping the direction of their nation. Beyond its electoral significance, the vote is being closely watched both domestically and internationally, reflecting Ethiopia’s political weight, demographic scale, and regional influence. Analysts describe the election as a key democratic process that could help define the country’s political and development trajectory in the years ahead. As Ethiopians continue to cast their ballots, the election stands as a powerful expression of civic participation and national decision-making.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 — The Head of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) and former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has expressed his optimism for a continued success of the voting process in Ethiopia as monitoring efforts remain active. Voting began this morning across Ethiopia as citizens headed to polling stations for the country's 7th General Election, with regional and continental observer missions monitoring the process. The AUEOM mission observed the opening procedures at a polling station to assess the preparedness of election officials and the conduct of voting. Head of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) Kenyatta, said on the occasion that "… the process has started, and we will continue to monitor during the course of the day to see the flow, and then be back at the end of the day. So far, we can say that the process has started, it is moving, it is flowing, and we hope it continues like that for the rest of the day." According to him, a successful electoral process in Ethiopia would have significance beyond its borders and resonate across the continent. Speaking during the observation, the Head underscored the importance of elections in strengthening democratic governance across Africa. "Well, you know, voting is the exercise of citizens exercising their democratic rights to choose their representatives and leaders. Democracy is something that we in the African continent would like to entrench so that we have true representation, a feeling of inclusion, and the ability for people to choose the leaders of their choice." He noted that while democratic processes can face challenges, each election provides an opportunity for improvement and deeper democratic consolidation. Kenyatta also highlighted Ethiopia’s unique role as the diplomatic capital of Africa, stating that a successful electoral process in the country would have significance beyond its borders and resonate across the continent. Meanwhile, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Election Observation Mission, led by Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe, also monitored the opening procedures at a polling station, assessing the preparedness of election officials and the conduct of the voting process. Addressing voters and residents, the Head emphasized Ethiopia's continental importance and the role of elections in promoting peace and stability. "We are very interested in Ethiopia because it is the headquarters of Africa. We want peace here. We want everything to be peaceful so that we can move across Africa comfortably. So, when we see you interested in peace in Ethiopia—because elections are very important for peace—we are very happy. And to see the women already here to vote is very good!" Both observer missions welcomed the peaceful atmosphere at the polling station and praised the participation of women voters, describing it as an encouraging sign for the democratic process. The missions are expected to continue monitoring voting, counting, and tabulation processes throughout Election Day before issuing their preliminary assessments of the election.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —Millions of Ethiopians began casting their ballots on Monday as the country launched its 7th General Election, a vote widely seen as a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s ongoing democratic journey. Citizens across the nation are electing members of nine regional state councils and a new federal parliament, which will subsequently play a key role in forming the next government and shaping the country’s political direction. Election officials, security personnel, observers, and polling staff have been deployed nationwide to facilitate what is expected to be one of Africa’s largest and most closely watched electoral exercises.   Beyond its electoral significance, the vote is being viewed as an important institutional process for Ethiopia, one of Africa’s most populous and strategically influential nations. The outcome is expected to help define the country’s political landscape and development trajectory in the years ahead. The scale of the election is reflected in its remarkable figures. More than 54 million registered voters are eligible to participate, choosing from candidates representing 42 political parties. Over 10,000 candidates are competing for public office, while approximately 52,000 polling stations have been established across the country to ensure broad voter access.   The election has drawn considerable attention both domestically and internationally. International observers are monitoring the process, while local and global media outlets are providing extensive coverage. Analysts regard the vote as one of the most consequential democratic exercises on the African continent, given Ethiopia’s regional influence, demographic weight, and growing geopolitical importance.   Polling stations opened at 6:00 a.m. across the country, with long queues of voters forming early in the morning as citizens exercised their democratic right and participated in shaping the future of their nation.

By Yordanos D. Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —The past eight years in Ethiopia have been defined by a complex reality marked by sweeping institutional reforms, major infrastructure achievements, and far-reaching national transformation, alongside significant challenges. Yet much of the international and domestic discourse surrounding the country has often focused disproportionately on its vulnerabilities while overlooking substantial progress made across multiple sectors. In recent weeks, some international media outlets, including CNN, The Economist, and Al Jazeera, have published reports that many Ethiopians and observers view as incomplete and unbalanced portrayals of the country's current trajectory. Critics argue that such narratives fail to adequately reflect the broader context of Ethiopia's ongoing transformation, despite visible developments that have been witnessed by international partners, investors, diplomats, and visitors. The timing of these reports has also raised questions among political commentators, particularly as Ethiopia prepares to conduct its seventh national election. Many analysts have asked why negative narratives have gained prominence at a moment when the country is seeking to consolidate democratic processes and showcase years of economic, social, and infrastructural progress. These narratives not only misrepresent the entirety of the country but also are totally distorted. An objective evaluation must also acknowledge the country's significant achievements in economic reform, infrastructure expansion, digital transformation, agricultural modernization, environmental conservation, energy development, tourism promotion, and regional diplomacy. Ignoring these gains presents an incomplete account of Ethiopia's trajectory and undermines a balanced understanding of its development journey. Any credible assessment requires viewing the full ledger, recognizing both the obstacles Ethiopia continues to face and the progress it has achieved. Only through such a balanced approach can the country's recent experience be understood with accuracy, fairness, and intellectual honesty. However, these media have altogether put aside all the gains rather focus on fabricated stories. However, Ethiopia's national story has been defined not merely by the challenges it has faced, but by its remarkable resilience, accelerated modernization, and firm commitment to self-reliance under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed since 2018. From the historic peace agreement with Eritrea, which ended two decades of hostility and transformed the geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa, to the commissioning of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Africa's largest hydroelectric project, Ethiopia has demonstrated a determination to shape its own future. At the same time, the Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) has mobilized millions of citizens in an unprecedented environmental restoration campaign, reversing land degradation and contributing to climate resilience. Parallel to these efforts, a rapidly expanding digital economy is transforming public services, financial transactions, and everyday commerce, ushering the nation into a new era of technological advancement. The comprehensive review that follows examines this multifaceted transformation across twelve key sectors that have played a central role in reshaping Ethiopia over the past eight years. While acknowledging the challenges that remain, it highlights the tangible and measurable achievements that have altered the country's political, economic, social, environmental, and physical landscape. These developments are not merely statistical milestones; they represent structural changes that are laying the foundation for future growth and prosperity. Ultimately, this assessment poses an important question to media organizations, policymakers, citizens, and international observers alike: Should temporary crises and ongoing challenges obscure the significance of historic achievements that are transforming the nation? Or should these accomplishments be recognized as the foundation upon which Ethiopia can continue addressing its remaining obstacles and advancing toward its long-term aspirations? Political Reforms When Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed assumed office in April 2018, he introduced early political and institutional changes aimed at opening civic space and easing national tensions. Among the first steps taken was the release of thousands of political prisoners and the return of several opposition figures from exile. Legal and regulatory reforms followed, including amendments to the Charities and Societies Proclamation and the Media Proclamation, which eased long standing restrictions on civil society organizations and media institutions. In October 2018, a landmark cabinet reshuffle brought women into 50 percent of ministerial positions, including senior leadership portfolios, marking one of the most visible institutional shifts of the period. A central pillar of the broader political transformation has been the restructuring of the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE). The reconstituted board was designed to function with greater independence and credibility, reshaping the institutional framework governing the country’s electoral process. This reform was first tested during the 6th national general election held in June 2021. Conducted under challenging conditions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the election marked a departure from previous eras which were dominated by a single political coalition. Domestic and international observers witnessed improvements in procedural openness and voter participation, while also recognizing the complexity of managing a large-scale election in a transitional environment. Building on that experience, Ethiopia has moved into preparations for its 7th national general election. This electoral cycle has been characterized by expanded logistical capacity and institutional modernization. The NEBE registered more than 54 million voters, representing a significant increase compared to the previous cycle, and introduced digital registration systems to improve accessibility. These developments reflect an evolving electoral and political landscape in which institutional frameworks have been adjusted to expand participation and strengthen procedural organization. Hence, while challenges remain, the direction of reform points to a political space that is more structured, more competitive, and more open than in earlier phases of the country’s recent history. Peace Agreement with Eritrea One of the most consequential diplomatic developments in Ethiopia's modern history was the peace agreement signed between Ethiopia and Eritrea in July 2018. The accord formally ended nearly two decades of hostility and diplomatic deadlock that had persisted since the 1998–2000 border war, a conflict that claimed tens of thousands of lives and left relations between the two neighboring countries frozen for years. The breakthrough triggered a series of historic developments. Diplomatic relations were restored, commercial flights resumed between Addis Ababa and Asmara, telecommunications links were re-established, border crossings were reopened, and families separated for decades by one of Africa's most heavily militarized frontiers were finally reunited. The agreement also reduced tensions across the Horn of Africa and generated optimism about the prospects for greater regional cooperation, economic integration, and stability. The significance of the initiative extended beyond the two countries. It demonstrated that even deeply entrenched conflicts could be resolved through political courage and diplomatic engagement. In recognition of his efforts to end the prolonged stalemate and advance reconciliation, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was awarded the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Committee cited his decisive role in achieving peace and fostering international cooperation in a region long affected by instability. While the implementation and sustainability of the peace process have faced significant challenges in subsequent years, including changing regional dynamics and renewed political tensions, the historic importance of the 2018 agreement remains undisputed. The accord represented a decisive departure from decades of confrontation and opened a new chapter in relations between the two countries. Viewed within a broader historical context, the Ethiopia-Eritrea peace agreement stands as one of the most important diplomatic achievements of the past decade in Africa. It demonstrated Ethiopia's willingness to pursue dialogue over confrontation and underscored the country's growing role in shaping peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. Regardless of later challenges, the agreement remains a landmark achievement that altered regional geopolitics and showcased the transformative potential of diplomatic leadership. Economic Reform The Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda (HGER), launched in 2019 and later expanded through a second phase, represents the most ambitious economic restructuring program undertaken in Ethiopia in decades. Designed to transition the country from a predominantly state-led development model toward a more competitive and market-oriented economy, the reform package seeks to address long-standing macroeconomic imbalances while laying the foundation for sustainable private sector-led growth. The reform agenda is built around several key pillars, including strengthening fiscal discipline, controlling inflationary pressures, expanding private sector participation, improving the performance of state-owned enterprises, enhancing export competitiveness, and creating a more attractive investment environment. Among its most significant milestones was the government's decision to move toward a market-based foreign exchange system, a major policy shift intended to improve foreign currency availability and boost investor confidence. The reform process also introduced an interest rate-based monetary policy framework through the National Bank of Ethiopia and reduced direct central bank financing of government expenditure, measures aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability and improving policy credibility. Despite facing global economic shocks, the COVID-19 pandemic, climate-related challenges, and domestic security pressures, Ethiopia has continued to register strong economic growth. According to assessments by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, the country remains among Africa's fastest-growing economies. Economic growth was estimated at approximately 8.1 percent in the 2023/24 fiscal year, while projections for 2024/25 indicate growth exceeding 8 percent. Forecasts suggest that Ethiopia will continue to maintain one of the highest growth rates on the continent in the coming years. External sector performance has shown notable improvement as well. Export earnings have reached record levels, driven by strong performances in coffee, gold, horticulture, livestock products, and other key commodities. Foreign exchange inflows have also benefited from growing remittances, tourism recovery, and increased investment activity. These developments have helped improve foreign currency availability and strengthen the country's external position. Equally important is the growing role of the private sector. Reforms in telecommunications, banking, logistics, and investment regulations have begun opening previously restricted sectors to competition and private participation. The government's broader objective is to create an economic environment in which entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment serve as primary drivers of growth and job creation. The homegrown Economic Reform Agenda has fundamentally altered the trajectory of the Ethiopian economy. It has introduced structural reforms that seek not merely to sustain growth but to improve its quality, resilience, and inclusiveness. Growth of FDI Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has emerged as one of the key drivers of Ethiopia's economic transformation, providing critical capital inflows, technology transfer, employment opportunities, and access to international markets. As the country pursues ambitious industrialization and economic reform programs, attracting foreign investment has become a central component of its long-term development strategy. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Ethiopia has consistently ranked among Africa's leading destinations for foreign direct investment and remains one of the largest recipients of FDI in East Africa. Between 2018 and 2024, the country attracted billions of dollars in investment commitments across a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, commercial agriculture, mining, renewable energy, infrastructure, telecommunications, and services. These investments have played an important role in expanding productive capacity, creating jobs, increasing exports, and strengthening the country's integration into global value chains. Besides, the country's network of industrial parks and the introduction of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have created dedicated investment platforms offering improved infrastructure, streamlined administrative services, and enhanced incentives for domestic and international investors. These initiatives have strengthened Ethiopia's position as a regional manufacturing hub, particularly in textiles, apparel, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, and light manufacturing. Another notable development was the decision to open Ethiopia's financial sector to foreign participation. Through new regulatory frameworks issued by the National Bank of Ethiopia, international financial institutions have been provided pathways to enter the market through subsidiaries, branches, strategic partnerships, and minority shareholdings in domestic banks. The move is expected to increase capital availability, strengthen competition, enhance financial innovation, and improve access to global financial expertise. The mining sector has also emerged as an increasingly attractive destination for foreign capital. Rising investments in gold, potash, natural gas, and critical minerals have expanded the sector's contribution to export earnings and foreign exchange generation. Similarly, growing investment in renewable energy projects reflects Ethiopia's ambition to become a regional leader in clean energy production and export. By gradually transitioning from a relatively closed economic structure toward a more open and competitive investment environment, Ethiopia has positioned itself as one of Africa's most promising emerging markets. The sustained flow of foreign investment over recent years reflects growing international confidence in the country's long-term economic potential and its vision of becoming a leading manufacturing, services, and investment hub on the continent. Technological Revolution Perhaps no sector better illustrates Ethiopia’s recent transformation than digital technology. Guided by the Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy, the country has accelerated its shift from a predominantly cash based and paper driven economy toward a more connected and technology enabled digital ecosystem. The strategy has prioritized the expansion of digital infrastructure, the development of a nationwide digital identity system, and the promotion of digital public services, laying the groundwork for greater financial inclusion, improved healthcare management, enhanced educational access, and more transparent public service delivery. At the center of this transformation is the Fayda Digital ID program, Ethiopia’s national digital identification initiative. The program has registered more than 15 million citizens and continues to expand rapidly toward its long-term goal of providing secure digital identification to 90 million residents by 2030. The initiative is expected to play a critical role in simplifying access to financial services, government programs, healthcare, and social protection schemes while reducing administrative inefficiencies. Infrastructure Expansion Infrastructure development has remained a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s growth strategy, providing the foundation for economic integration, trade expansion, and improved public services. Over the past eight years, the country has significantly expanded its transport network through the Road Sector Development Program. Ethiopia’s all weather road network increased from about 126,000 kilometers in 2018 to more than 171,000 kilometers, improving connectivity between major economic centers and previously underserved rural areas. Urban Development Urban renewal has become one of the most visible aspects of Ethiopia’s recent transformation. The Addis Ababa Corridor Development Project has reshaped large sections of the capital through road expansion, modern drainage systems, pedestrian walkways, cycling lanes, green spaces, and upgraded public facilities. Designed to improve mobility and urban livability, the project seeks to create a more efficient and interconnected city environment. The initiative has since expanded beyond Addis Ababa to more than 125 cities nationwide. Major urban centers such as Bahir Dar, Dessie, Kombolcha, and Debre Berhan have undertaken infrastructure upgrades and public space improvements, while Oromia Region has launched a long-term corridor development plan linking metropolitan areas with the growing Sheger City. Public attractions such as Unity Park, Friendship Park, and Entoto Park have further enhanced urban aesthetics and strengthened the tourism and hospitality sectors. Hence, urban transformation has become a defining feature of Ethiopia’s development agenda. Environmental Restoration The Green Legacy Initiative (GLI) has emerged as one of the largest environmental restoration programs in the world. Launched in 2019 to address deforestation, land degradation, and climate change, the campaign has mobilized millions of citizens each year in nationwide tree planting efforts. Ethiopia achieved international recognition by planting more than 714 million seedlings in a single day, while cumulative planting has surpassed 40 billion trees since the program began. The initiative is increasingly focused on improving seedling survival rates, restoring degraded ecosystems, and promoting climate resilient species. Alongside indigenous trees, farmers are encouraged to plant fruit trees and agroforestry crops that generate economic benefits while enhancing environmental sustainability. The initiative has become a central pillar of Ethiopia’s Climate Resilient Green Economy strategy. By expanding forest cover, protecting biodiversity, and improving watershed management, the program contributes to both environmental protection and agricultural sustainability. Agricultural Modernization Agriculture continues to play a central role in Ethiopia’s economy, supporting millions of livelihoods and contributing substantially to national output. One of the most significant achievements in recent years has been the expansion of domestic wheat production. Through large scale irrigation, improved seed varieties, mechanization, and cluster farming programs, annual wheat production increased from about 7 million metric tons in 2018 to more than 23 million metric tons. This progress has sharply reduced dependence on imported wheat and enabled Ethiopia to export surplus production to neighboring markets, saving valuable foreign exchange. The coffee sector has also achieved record performance. During the 2024/25 fiscal year, Ethiopia generated approximately 2.65 billion USD from coffee exports, the highest earnings in the country’s history. Export volumes reached nearly 470,000 metric tons, driven by strong demand from major markets including Saudi Arabia, Germany, the United States, and South Korea. Policy reforms that expanded market access and encouraged direct participation by producers have strengthened export competitiveness and increased returns for farmers. These gains support Ethiopia’s ambition of raising annual coffee export revenues to 4 billion USD in the coming years. Manufacturing Development Industrialization remains central to Ethiopia’s vision of building a diversified and export-oriented economy. Over the past decade, substantial investments have been made in industrial parks and Special Economic Zones designed to attract manufacturing investment and create employment opportunities. The Industrial Parks Development Corporation oversees major industrial hubs in Hawassa, Dire Dawa, Bole Lemi, Kilinto, Kombolcha, Adama, Jimma, and Bahir Dar, among others. These industrial zones have attracted investors from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, supporting industries ranging from textiles and apparel to pharmaceuticals, agro processing, leather products, and light manufacturing. They have created tens of thousands of jobs while contributing to export growth and technology transfer. By combining foreign investment, local entrepreneurship, renewable energy resources, and expanding industrial infrastructure, Ethiopia is laying the foundation for a more diversified economy capable of generating employment, increasing exports, and supporting long term economic transformation. Diplomacy and Continental Leadership As the host of the African Union (AU) headquarters, Ethiopia continues to occupy a central place in African diplomacy. Its strategic location, long history of statehood, and growing economic significance have enabled the country to play an active role in regional peace, security, and integration efforts. Over the years, Ethiopia has contributed to conflict mediation initiatives in the Horn of Africa, supported regional cooperation mechanisms, and promoted the principle of African solutions to African challenges through multilateral institutions. Ethiopia's diplomatic engagement is particularly evident within the AU that the country has consistently advocated for greater continental integration, infrastructure connectivity, and sustainable development under the framework of the AU's Agenda 2063. It has also positioned major national projects, including GERD, as contributions to Africa's broader development objectives by emphasizing renewable energy generation, regional power interconnection, and equitable utilization of shared resources. Beyond diplomacy, Ethiopia remains a significant contributor to regional peace and security. Ethiopian personnel have participated in various AU and United Nations (UN) peace support operations, reflecting the country's longstanding commitment to stability across the continent. These contributions have reinforced Ethiopia's reputation as an important stakeholder in efforts to address conflict, terrorism, and humanitarian crises in Africa. Ethiopia's international profile expanded further with its accession to the BRICS grouping in 2024. Membership provides access to new avenues of economic cooperation, investment opportunities, development financing, and trade partnerships with some of the world's largest emerging economies. The move also reflects the country's efforts to diversify its international partnerships while strengthening its voice within evolving global governance structures. Although Ethiopia continues to navigate complex regional dynamics and global geopolitical competition, its growing engagement in continental and international institutions has enhanced its diplomatic influence. Through its leadership within the AU, participation in peace and security initiatives, and expanding partnerships with emerging global powers, Ethiopia has strengthened its position as a key factor in shaping Africa's future and advancing its own long term development interests. Conclusion In conclusion, despite various media blackmailing and campaign against Ethiopia, the past eight years have been among the most consequential in Ethiopia’s modern history, marked by significant achievements and ambitious reforms. The country has undertaken wide ranging reforms and development initiatives that have reshaped key sectors of the economy and society. Major investments in infrastructure have expanded transportation networks and improved national connectivity. The Digital Ethiopia agenda has accelerated financial inclusion and digital transformation. Besides, the country has recorded substantial progress across infrastructure, agriculture, energy, technology, environmental protection, industrial development, and diplomacy. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize these achievements as it could provide a more complete understanding of a nation that continues to evolve, adapt, and strive toward a more prosperous and stable future. Ethiopia's story over the past eight years is therefore not solely one of challenges as those media have been disseminating but that of grave achievements, transformation, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of national progress. Hence, we should not deny the undeniable gains on the ground and shouldn't allow minor challenges to overshadow the historic achievements that are transforming Ethiopia.

  Addis Ababa, June1, 2026 —As Africa’s second-most populous country and one of the continent’s most influential states, Ethiopia has long drawn close international attention whenever its citizens head to the polls, American political analyst Andrew Korybko told ENA. Ethiopia has entered the final hours before voting begins in its 7th General Election, with millions of citizens preparing to cast their ballots on June 1, 2026, in what many observers regard as a defining moment in the country’s democratic journey. Following weeks of political campaigning, public debates, and the legally mandated period of electoral silence, election materials have been successfully distributed to polling stations nationwide, paving the way for voting to commence across the country. According to Korybko, the significance of Ethiopia’s upcoming election extends far beyond its domestic political landscape. Given the country’s strategic position and influence, the outcome is expected to have important implications for the wider Horn of Africa and the broader international community. The analyst noted that the election is taking place against a complex national, regional, and global backdrop. Domestically, he expressed some concerns over the possibility of security challenges in northern Ethiopia. And he explained regionally, geopolitical rivalries and security tensions continue to shape strategic calculations, while globally, ongoing shifts in the international order have increased the importance of stability in key regional powers such as Ethiopia. “In such an environment, many voters are likely to prioritize continuity, security, and economic progress when making their electoral decisions,” Korybko observed. Recall that Ethiopia has recorded notable democratic advances under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. While acknowledging that no democratic system is without shortcomings, many point to expanded political participation, institutional reforms, and increased public engagement as indicators of progress. From this perspective, Korybko argued that Ethiopia’s ongoing political evolution could offer valuable lessons for other African nations pursuing democratic reform, modernization, and state-building. The analyst also suggested that foreign media narratives are unlikely to have a decisive impact on voter behavior inside Ethiopia. While major international outlets such as CNN, The Economist, and others have extensively covered the election, he believes their reporting primarily targets international audiences rather than Ethiopian voters. According to Korybko, most Ethiopians continue to rely on domestic media platforms and local-language sources for political information and election-related news, limiting the influence of external narratives on the electorate. Despite ongoing challenges, the analyst said many observers remain optimistic about Ethiopia’s long-term political and economic trajectory. He acknowledged that reform efforts have faced significant obstacles, particularly during the conflict that affected northern Ethiopia between 2020 and 2022. Nevertheless, he argued that a sustained period of peace could create favorable conditions for accelerated development, institutional strengthening, and deeper reforms. At the same time, Korybko emphasized that expectations should remain realistic, noting that meaningful political and institutional transformation requires time, stability, and sustained public commitment. “The stakes extend well beyond Ethiopia’s borders,” he said. As a major regional power, Ethiopia’s stability and prosperity are closely tied to the future of the Horn of Africa. Any resurgence of internal conflict or escalation of regional tensions could have far-reaching consequences for neighboring countries, regional trade, and collective security. For that reason, policymakers, diplomats, and observers across Africa and beyond continue to monitor developments in Ethiopia with considerable interest and regional prosperty. Beyond its strategic importance, Korybko highlighted Ethiopia’s unique place in African history. Widely regarded as a symbol of sovereignty, resilience, and anti-colonial resistance, Ethiopia has long inspired political movements throughout Africa and the Global South he stated. “Its experiences in democratic reform, peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and regional diplomacy offer valuable lessons that can be shared through diplomatic engagement, academic exchanges, policy forums, and international dialogue,” he said. As millions of Ethiopians prepare to cast their ballots, Korybko stressed that the election represents more than a routine political exercise. Rather, it is a pivotal moment that will help shape the future trajectory of one of Africa’s most consequential nations while sending important signals about governance, stability, and democratic development across the continent.

By Henok Tadele There is a familiar pattern in the way many Western media organizations report on Africa. When African nations collapse, they are headlines. When African nations rebuild, they are footnotes. When African states conduct elections amid challenges, the challenges become the story. When Western democracies face similar conditions, resilience becomes the story. A growing number of Western media narratives covering Ethiopia’s election—from CNN to The Economist and other international outlets, reflect this broader and familiar framing. At first glance, these reports appear to be straightforward election coverage. Yet beneath the polished language lies a recurring assumption: that Ethiopia’s seventh general election is not a democratic exercise but a “coronation.” The problem is not criticism. Democracies need criticism. The problem is selective storytelling and externally defined standards of legitimacy. A nation of more than 130 million people, preparing one of Africa’s largest electoral exercises, deserves to be examined through facts—not through a narrative written before the first ballot is cast. The Missing Ethiopia Readers of these reports may come away believing Ethiopia is a nation defined solely by conflict. Yet another Ethiopia exists. It is the Ethiopia that has spent the last several years rebuilding itself while simultaneously confronting war, drought, global economic turbulence, and the lingering effects of a pandemic. It is the Ethiopia constructing industrial parks, expanding digital infrastructure, liberalizing key sectors of its economy, launching a securities exchange, modernizing financial systems, planting billions of trees through the Green Legacy Initiative, and transforming major urban centers through ambitious corridor development projects. It is also the Ethiopia preparing one of the largest democratic exercises in Africa. This raises a legitimate question. Why now? Why is Ethiopia once again being portrayed primarily through the lens of crisis precisely at a moment when it is taking off in multiple directions—economic reform, infrastructure expansion, institutional modernization, and democratic participation? No serious observer would suggest that Ethiopia has solved all its problems. It has not. But neither can a nation of more than 135 million people be reduced to a single narrative of conflict and instability. Constructive criticism is essential. Selective criticism is something different. The real Ethiopia contains both challenges and achievements. Yet too often, international audiences are shown only one side of that story. Development Is Not a Social Media Filter Perhaps the most revealing phrase in these reports is the description of Addis Ababa’s transformation as a “social media-friendly narrative of progress.” The choice of words is telling. A narrative is a story. Infrastructure is a reality. Roads are not narratives. Parks are not narratives. Expanded airports, digital payment systems, industrial parks, and a stock exchange are not narratives. Neither are the billions of trees planted through the Green Legacy Initiative. These are measurable developments visible to citizens, investors, and visitors alike. The transformation taking place in Addis Ababa is not occurring on social media. It is occurring on the ground. Millions of residents use newly built roads, public spaces, and digital services every day. Major economic reforms, airport expansion projects, capital market development, and investment reforms are not public relations campaigns; they are policy decisions with real economic consequences. One may debate whether these reforms are sufficient or whether they benefit everyone equally. But questioning their existence is another matter entirely. Ethiopia’s development story is not complete, and serious challenges remain. Yet it is difficult to dismiss visible infrastructure, measurable economic reforms, and urban transformation as mere optics. These are not Instagram filters. They are realities experienced by millions of Ethiopians every day. Nor is Addis Ababa an exception; corridor development projects are reshaping major cities and towns across Ethiopia, improving urban mobility, public spaces, and infrastructure on a scale unprecedented in the country’s modern history. The Election They Forgot to Describe For all its skepticism, much of this coverage spends remarkably little time discussing the election itself. The scale of Ethiopia’s seventh general election is extraordinary by any standard. More than 54 million Ethiopians have registered to vote, up significantly from the approximately 38 million registered in the previous election. The addition of over 16 million new voters within a single electoral cycle reflects expanding political participation and makes this one of the largest electoral exercises ever conducted on the African continent. The election is being conducted with participation from 42 political parties and dozens of independent candidates. Altogether, more than 10,000 candidates are competing for seats in federal and regional institutions, giving voters a wide range of political choices. Equally significant is the role of civil society. More than 169 accredited civic organizations are engaged in voter education, while 55 domestic observer organizations have deployed over 64,000 observers nationwide. International observation missions from the African Union and IGAD are also present, adding further transparency to the process. These are not the characteristics of a political coronation. They are the characteristics of a large-scale democratic exercise involving millions of voters, thousands of candidates, and extensive observation mechanisms operating at national scale. Comparing the Seventh Election with the Past Democracy is not measured against perfection. It is measured against progress. A fair question is therefore not whether Ethiopia’s seventh general election is flawless, but whether it is improving compared to previous cycles. The answer is clearly yes. For decades, Ethiopian elections were criticized for limited competition, restricted civic participation, and weak institutional capacity. Today, political participation is broader, observation mechanisms are stronger, and electoral administration is more institutionalized. Even opposition voices quoted in these reports acknowledge increased competitiveness compared to earlier elections. If competition is expanding and participation is increasing, then Ethiopia is not moving backward. It is moving forward—unevenly, imperfectly, but forward nonetheless. The War They Discuss Without Context CNN repeatedly associates Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed with the Tigray conflict while devoting little attention to how the war began. History cannot be selectively edited. The conflict erupted following attacks on the Northern Command of the Ethiopian National Defense Force in November 2020. No serious discussion of the war can omit that reality. One may debate the government's response. One may criticize military decisions. One may question political choices. But journalism becomes advocacy when it removes the event that triggered the conflict itself. Complex wars require complex explanations. Simplistic villains may satisfy headlines, but they rarely satisfy history. Equally absent from the article is adequate recognition of the peace process that followed. The Pretoria Peace Agreement, brokered under African leadership, demonstrated that Africans could resolve African conflicts through dialogue and negotiation. Despite inevitable challenges in implementation, the agreement ended one of the deadliest conflicts in recent history and opened a pathway toward national reconciliation. That achievement deserves acknowledgment as well. A Curious Double Standard When countries such as India, Nigeria, Colombia, or Pakistan conduct elections while confronting security challenges, Western media often celebrate democratic resilience. When Ethiopia does the same, the election itself becomes suspect. Why? No country suspends democracy simply because security problems exist. In fact, democratic processes often become more important during periods of national difficulty. Ethiopia's decision to proceed with elections despite significant challenges should be viewed as an affirmation of constitutional governance, not evidence against it. The exclusion of some constituencies due to security concerns is not proof of electoral illegitimacy. It reflects the practical reality that elections require minimum conditions of safety and accessibility. Similar decisions have been made in democracies across the world when extraordinary circumstances prevent voting from taking place in specific locations. The Voices Missing from the Story The CNN article quotes opposition figures, exiled analysts, and former officials. Their perspectives deserve to be heard. But where are the ordinary Ethiopians? Where is the farmer voting for the first time? Where is the young woman serving as an election official? Where is the university graduate contesting local office? Where is the entrepreneur who believes economic reforms are creating new opportunities? Where are the millions of citizens who continue to engage with the democratic process despite the challenges facing their country? A democracy cannot be understood solely through the opinions of political elites. The ultimate judges of Ethiopia's future are not foreign commentators. They are Ethiopian citizens. Beyond the Narrative No serious observer would claim Ethiopia has solved all its problems. Conflict remains. Political disagreements remain. Economic pressures remain. Democratic institutions remain a work in progress. But none of these realities erase another reality. More than 54 million Ethiopians have registered to vote. Thousands of candidates are competing for office. Tens of thousands of domestic observers are monitoring the process. International observer missions are present. Civil society organizations are engaged. Electoral institutions are stronger than they were in previous decades. Political competition is broader than it was in previous eras. These are not signs of democratic collapse. They are signs of democratic evolution. Tomorrow, tens of millions of Ethiopians will participate in one of the largest elections on the African continent. They will cast their ballots not because their democracy is perfect, but because they believe their future should be decided through ballots rather than bullets. That is not a coronation. That is a choice. The tragedy of the CNN article is not that it criticizes Ethiopia. The tragedy is that it sees only Ethiopia's wounds and refuses to acknowledge its recovery. History will not judge this election by headlines written in distant newsrooms. History will judge it by whether Ethiopians continue expanding political participation, strengthening institutions, modernizing their economy, and resolving differences through constitutional means. That journey is far from complete. But it is underway. And that story deserves to be told too.