Ethiopia Working to Hold Election Next Year: PM Abiy

Addis Ababa August 1/2019 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reiterated his government's decision to hold the election next year as per the schedule saying it is undertaking preparations.

In a press conference he held today in Addis Ababa, Prime Minister Abiy said the government is undertaking the necessary preparations to conduct the election next year.

He added that the Executive Council of EPRDF has already discussed on advantages and disadvantages of holding the election in accordance with the schedule.

In addition to discussing the need to hold the election next year, Abiy said activities that aimed to strengthen the capacity of the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia has been undertaking as part of the process.

He mentioned the legal and structural measures taken with the aim of helping the Board attain institutional freedom thereby discharge its responsibilities fairly as part of the preparation.

Noting that there are people who emphasize the need to hold the election on time and others who are pushing for its postponement, Abiy said both sides have their own 'truth'. However, Abiy said postponing the election will need to review the constitution.

The Premier, who said EPRDF will not decide to postpone the election, said his government is working alongside with the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia to hold the election next year.