Addis Ababa, June 2, 2026 —The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has announced the successful completion of Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, marking the end of a nationwide voting process. The election is widely regarded as one of Africa’s largest democratic exercises this year. Speaking at a press on Tuesday evening, NEBE Chairperson Melatwork Hailu confirmed that voting, which began at 6:00 a.m. on June 1, concluded successfully across the country. Melatwork noted that while exceptionally long queues were observed at polling stations in Addis Ababa, the election process remained orderly. She added that ballot counting was still underway in parts of the Sidama, Gambella, Amhara, and Somali regions, meaning the final voter turnout figures have yet to be fully consolidated. The Chairperson said the Board received various reports and complaints through multiple channels, including its legal department, the political parties affairs division, and the election hotline, 6412. According to her, immediate corrective measures were taken whenever necessary, while cases requiring further examination are currently being verified, investigated, and documented. She further explained that results that have already been finalized at polling station level have been publicly posted in several locations. The process of aggregating and validating results at constituency level is now ongoing.   Earlier in the day, NEBE issued a statement commending millions of Ethiopians who exercised their constitutional right to vote with patience, vigilance, and a strong sense of civic responsibility. The Board also called on the public to await official election results and refrain from circulating information from unofficial sources. In a separate statement released on Tuesday, the Government Communication Service described the election as a successful, peaceful, and historic democratic exercise, praising the active participation of millions of citizens across the country. The June 1 election has drawn significant attention both domestically and internationally due to Ethiopia’s large population, vast geographic size, and the more than 54 million registered voters who were eligible to participate. Following the conclusion of voting, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed praised Ethiopians for what he described as their extraordinary commitment to democracy, patriotism, and national unity, reflected in the massive turnout witnessed across the country.   Similarly, President Taye Atske Selassie described the 2026 General Election as a pivotal milestone in Ethiopia’s efforts to build a stronger, more stable, and more prosperous nation. As vote counting and result aggregation continue, the National Election Board has assured the public that the remaining stages of the electoral process will be conducted in accordance with the law, transparency, and established electoral procedures.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | June 2, 2026 _ The Head of the African Union Election Observation Mission and IGAD Election Observation Mission to Ethiopia's 2026 election are expected to present their preliminary findings on Wednesday, 3rd June, 2026, according to the social media of the IGAD. The Head of the IGAD Election Observation Mission (IGAD EOM), Speciosa Wandira-Kazibwe, and the Head of the African Union Election Observation Mission, Uhuru Kenyatta, convened a post-election debriefing meeting one day after the conclusion of polling in Ethiopia today. The consultations provided an opportunity for the Heads of Mission to review and consolidate observations gathered by their respective teams during election day and the immediate post-election period, as part of their ongoing assessment of the electoral process. Both Missions are expected to present their preliminary findings on Wednesday, 3rd June, 2026.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | June 2, 2026 _ Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) Chief Commissioner, Birhanu Adelo, said today that its preliminary election day monitoring has found the 7th General Election peaceful, democratic, participatory, with no fundamental human rights violations. It also noted that the election was conducted in a manner where no fundamental human rights violations were committed and met the standard international electoral criteria. EHRC is one of the institutions that observed yesterday's election as it is granted the authority to monitor that national and local elections held in Ethiopia are conducted in accordance with human rights principles. Through its monitoring activities, the institution is also tasked with the responsibility of ensuring that the elections meet international standards. Accordingly, the Chief Commissioner revealed that EHRC had deployed 104 monitoring teams consisting of over 320 members on election day. He said the observers were deployed to nearly three thousand polling stations under more than 180 constituencies to carry out their monitoring work. The EHRC also observed the election by setting up a special monitoring team comprising the institution's top leadership, according to Chief Commissioner Birhanu. "In addition to those deployed in the field, the monitoring work was properly guided through a situation room and field observations by establishing a special monitoring team composed of the Chief and Deputy Commissioners, as well as four sectoral commissioners," he said. The Chief Commissioner added that the "special monitoring team" was also physically present to monitor the election in Bahir Dar and Gondar cities in the Amhara region, Jimma and Goma, Agaro towns in the Oromia region, as well as around Arba Minch in the South Ethiopia region. He stated that based on the monitoring conducted by the EHRC on election day, it found the election to be peaceful, participatory, democratic, and inclusive. The Chief Commissioner also said the EHRC has confirmed that no fundamental human rights violations were committed in the election.

Addis Ababa, June 2, 2026 —The Ethiopian government has declared the country's 7th General Election a success, praising millions of citizens for their participation in what it described as a peaceful and historic democratic exercise. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Government Communication Service said Ethiopians had responded overwhelmingly to the call to participate in the election, helping to strengthen constitutional governance and the country's democratic institutions. "Ethiopians have voted, and Ethiopia has won," the statement declared, describing the election as another demonstration of the Ethiopian people's commitment to national causes and collective responsibility. According to official figures, more than 54 million citizens registered to vote in the nationwide election, which was held on June 1. Polling stations opened early in the morning across the country, with large numbers of voters forming long queues throughout the day and until midnight to cast their ballots. The government noted that many voters waited for hours to participate, calling the election one of the most significant displays of civic engagement in Ethiopia's electoral history. The election is Ethiopia's seventh national vote and comes as the country continues efforts to strengthen democratic governance and institutional reforms. More than 10,000 candidates representing dozens of political parties and independent contenders competed for seats in federal and regional legislative bodies. The Government Communication Service said the election reflected Ethiopia's determination to build what it called an Ethiopian democratic system through transparent elections and respect for constitutional order. The statement also acknowledged challenges and opposition to the electoral process, but said the election was conducted successfully due to the commitment of citizens and institutions involved in its organization. The government expressed gratitude to voters, security forces, election officials, observers, media organizations, and all stakeholders who contributed to the peaceful conduct of the polls. Earlier in the day, domestic election observers from the Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE) reported that voting procedures were largely conducted in accordance with the country's electoral laws and regulations. The coalition deployed more than 3,100 observers across Ethiopia to monitor the process. The National Election Board of Ethiopia is expected to continue the vote-counting and verification process before announcing preliminary and final results in the coming days. The June 1 election has been widely viewed as one of Africa's largest democratic exercises this year, given Ethiopia's population size, geographic scale, and the number of registered voters participating in the process.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has commended the Ethiopian people for their extraordinary commitment to democracy, patriotism, and national unity following their massive participation in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election. In a social media message shared this evening, the Prime Minister described Ethiopians as an exceptional people, saying the election once again demonstrated to the world the nation’s rich culture, deep patriotism, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the common good. “The people of Ethiopia are an extraordinary and remarkable people. Other than the Creator, who can truly know and assess our people in their entirety?” Prime Minister Abiy stated. He stressed that Ethiopians have once again proven their resilience, civic responsibility, and dedication to the nation through their active participation in the electoral process. The Prime Minister highlighted the determination displayed by millions of citizens who overcame numerous challenges to exercise their democratic rights. He praised voters who were undeterred by the cold and darkness of the night, the heat of the midday sun, and unexpected rainfall. PM Abiy also acknowledged citizens who fulfilled important family and social responsibilities, including weddings, funerals, childbirth, and other commitments—yet still found the time to participate in the election. The Prime Minister further lauded voters who patiently endured long queues, as well as individuals whose physical disabilities, illness, or advanced age did not prevent them from taking part in what he described as a defining moment for the nation. He also recognized parents who carried their infant children, the future inheritors of Ethiopia, while participating in the electoral process. Most importantly, he praised citizens who remained steadfast despite intimidation, hostile rhetoric, and attempts to discourage their participation. “The perseverance you demonstrated amid many challenges and hardships, against all odds, was a contribution made for democracy and for the very survival of the nation,” the Prime Minister said, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the Ethiopian people. Calling it a privilege to serve such a people, Prime Minister Abiy urged newly elected leaders to honor the trust placed in them by the public and to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, sincerity, and dedication. “May those who have been elected honor the trust placed in them and serve this people with integrity and sincerity,” he stated. The Prime Minister added: “The Ethiopian people have paid a great price for the democratic system. May you prove worthy of that responsibility.” Prime Minister Abiy’s remarks came as voting in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election entered its final hours, with millions of citizens across the country taking part in a process widely regarded as a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s ongoing democratic journey.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Election Observation Mission has reported that it has not observed any irregularities so far in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, while praising the country’s progress in electoral administration, inclusivity and the application of modern technology. Head of the IGAD Election Observation Mission and former Vice President of Uganda, Dr. Speciosa Wandira Kazibwe, said the mission’s observers have not witnessed any violations of electoral laws or procedures during their monitoring activities across the country. “We have not observed any irregularity,” Dr. Kazibwe stated, adding that the mission continues to closely follow developments as voting concludes nationwide.   According to her, IGAD observers have been deployed in all regions where the election is being conducted, except Tigray rigion, and remain actively engaged in assessing the electoral process on the ground. Dr. Kazibwe noted that consultations with the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), civil society organizations, women’s associations, youth groups, and other stakeholders revealed significant progress in Ethiopia’s democratic and electoral development. She highlighted improvements in voter registration and participation, voter education initiatives, the training of election officials, and efforts to make polling stations more accessible to women, persons with disabilities, older citizens, pregnant women, and other groups requiring special assistance. “An election cannot be considered democratic unless every eligible citizen is given the opportunity to participate,” she said, emphasizing the importance of inclusive electoral processes that enable all citizens to exercise their right to vote regardless of age, gender, or physical condition. The IGAD mission head also commended Ethiopia’s growing use of information technology in election management, describing the country as one of the continent’s leaders in integrating modern technological solutions into electoral administration.   “Ethiopia is on top with respect to using modern technology,” she said, noting that digital tools have enhanced communication, accelerated information sharing, and enabled timely responses to issues that may arise during the voting process. Dr. Kazibwe further praised the active involvement of Ethiopian youth, particularly their contributions to developing technological innovations and monitoring mechanisms that support the conduct of elections. She also pointed to the strong voter turnout observed throughout election day, citing the participation of women, young people, senior citizens, and mothers with children as evidence of broad public engagement in the democratic process. Drawing on her experience observing elections across Africa, Dr. Kazibwe remarked that Ethiopia continues to demonstrate one of the continent’s highest levels of electoral participation. Beyond the election itself, she said she has witnessed significant social and economic progress in Ethiopia over the years, describing the country as an increasingly influential actor on the African continent. “I believe that Ethiopia has truly reasserted its position as the capital of the African continent,” she said. Voting in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election continued into extended hours on Monday after the National Election Board of Ethiopia announced that all voters who were in line by the official closing time would be allowed to cast their ballots, in accordance with the country’s electoral laws.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | June 1, 2026 _ The Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE) has reported that voting procedures in Ethiopia's 7th General Election have been conducted in accordance with the country's electoral laws and regulations. Millions of Ethiopians began casting their ballots across the country early Monday morning as polling stations opened at 6:00 a.m. for the nationwide election. Long queues of voters were observed at many polling centers as citizens exercised their democratic right to choose their representatives. Presenting the coalition's midday election observation report, CECOE Board Chairperson Sahlesilassie Abebe said the voting process had largely proceeded in line with established electoral frameworks. According to the chairperson, CECOE deployed a total of 3,149 observers nationwide, comprising 2,258 stationary observers and 891 mobile observers. The coalition's findings were based on observations gathered from 2,258 polling stations assessed against ten key electoral indicators. Sahlesilassie stated that 99 percent of CECOE observers reported being able to carry out their duties freely, while 97 percent of election officials arrived at polling stations on time. He further noted that election materials were fully available in all polling stations and that 97 percent of polling centers were established in appropriate locations in accordance with electoral guidelines. Regarding compliance with regulations governing polling station environments, he said that 96 percent of polling stations met the required distance criteria concerning political party campaign materials, signs, and campaign activities. The report also indicated that 99 percent of polling stations were confirmed to be empty before ballot boxes were sealed and voting commenced. In addition, 96 percent of polling stations were found to provide a conducive environment for female voters. Despite the generally positive assessment, the chairperson noted that observers had identified a number of challenges during the first half of the voting process. Details of these observations will be included in the coalition's subsequent reports as election monitoring continues throughout the day.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | June 1, 2026 _ The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has issued an additional statement regarding the conduct of the 7th General Election. The Board noted that voting for the 7th General Election was scheduled to take place today, Monday, June 1, 2026, from 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Following a review of reports submitted by its election monitoring teams deployed across the country, the Board has reached the following decision. Pursuant to Article 49(4) of Ethiopia’s Election, Political Parties Registration and Election Code of Conduct Proclamation No. 1162/2019, the Board is authorized to extend voting hours when it believes doing so will further enhance the freedom and fairness of the electoral process. Accordingly, NEBE has announced that voting hours have been extended until midnight (12:00 P.M. at polling stations where the voting process had not yet been completed by the scheduled closing time. At polling stations where all registered voters have already cast their ballots and voting has been completed, election officials are instructed to proceed with the vote-counting process.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | June 1, 2026 _ The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has clarified that voting in Ethiopia’s historic 7th General Election will continue beyond the official closing time of 6:00 PM to ensure that all eligible voters waiting in line are able to cast their ballots. Voting began nationwide at 6:00 AM, with millions of Ethiopians participating in the election to choose representatives for the federal parliament and regional state councils. In its social media channels, the Board stated that although polling stations are scheduled to close at 6:00 PM, electoral officials have been instructed to allow all voters who are present in queues by the closing time to vote before polling stations cease operations. According to NEBE, the measure is intended to safeguard citizens’ constitutional right to vote and ensure that high voter turnout does not prevent eligible voters from participating in the electoral process. The Board emphasized that the decision is fully consistent with Ethiopia’s electoral legal framework. It cited Article 49(4) of Proclamation No. 1162/2019, which grants the National Election Board the authority to extend voting hours under exceptional circumstances when necessary to guarantee universal suffrage and facilitate voter participation. As polling continues across the country, election officials, observers, and stakeholders remain engaged in monitoring the process to ensure its smooth and orderly conduct.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has reported that it has not observed any human rights violations thus far during Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, as millions of citizens continue casting their ballots across the country. Ethiopia is holding its 7th General Election with more than 54 million registered voters participating in the process to elect representatives to the House of People’s Representatives and regional state councils. Polling stations nationwide opened at 6:00 a.m., marking the start of a vote widely regarded as a significant milestone in the country’s democratic journey.   As part of its constitutional mandate, the EHRC is conducting nationwide monitoring of the electoral process to assess voting conditions and ensure the protection of voters’ rights throughout Election Day. A monitoring delegation led by EHRC Chief Commissioner Berhanu Adelo visited polling stations in Arba Minch and Jimma to observe the conduct of the election and evaluate compliance with electoral and human rights standards. Speaking after the visits, Chief Commissioner Berhanu Adelo stated that voters, including women, men, and persons with disabilities, were able to access polling stations without restrictions and participate freely in the voting process.   According to the Chief Commissioner, observations made so far indicate that the election has been conducted in accordance with applicable electoral laws and human rights principles. He noted that polling stations opened on schedule at 6:00 a.m., with voters, election officials, and observers present as voting commenced. The Commission further reported that the voting process has remained peaceful, orderly, and well-organized, with no human rights violations recorded to date. EHRC teams are monitoring the election across 175 constituencies and more than 2,700 polling stations nationwide, the Chief Commissioner pointed out. The Commission also noted that election-related grievances are being tracked through a dedicated complaint-monitoring mechanism established to address concerns that may arise during the electoral process.   The EHRC emphasized that it will continue observing both election-day activities and the post-election period to ensure that human rights are respected and protected throughout the electoral cycle. As voting continues nationwide, the strong turnout witnessed across many polling stations signals robust public engagement in shaping the country's future through the ballot box, ENA also learned.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 — President Taye Atskeselassie said today that the seventh general election will write a new chapter in the Ethiopian democracy. In a post on his X account, the president said, “I cast my vote today and in doing so, joined millions of my fellow citizens in writing a new chapter for Ethiopia’s democracy.” He added that while Ethiopia’s democracy is still young, the mandate of the people remains firm. “Our democracy may be young, but the mandate of our people is resolute, irreversible, and entirely our own,” he added. The President also emphasized that the real meaning of the day cannot be measured by outside commentary. “The true measure of this day stands not in the headlines of the foreign media critics I read, but in the long queues of our people I saw with my naked eye,” he elaborated.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —Deacon Daniel Kibret, Social Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister, said the large number of voters who turned out early to cast their ballots in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election demonstrates citizens’ strong sense of ownership and engagement in national affairs. Deacon Daniel cast his vote on Monday morning and commended the enthusiasm shown by voters across the country. Speaking after voting, he noted that citizens began lining up at polling stations before dawn, with many waiting in long queues in the darkness to participate in the electoral process. The fact that people came out in the early hours of the morning and stood in line before sunrise shows their commitment to their country and their determination to take part in shaping its future,” he noted. According to Deacon Daniel, the overwhelming turnout indicates that Ethiopians recognize the importance of their democratic responsibility and do not require external encouragement to participate in matters that concern the nation. He described elections as a vital instrument for strengthening democracy and ensuring the continued progress of the country, adding that the strong public participation witnessed across polling stations reflects a deep sense of civic duty and belonging. The minister further elaborated that the massive turnout clearly demonstrates that citizens are actively engaged in national affairs and are determined to contribute to the country's democratic journey. Voting is underway across Ethiopia as millions of citizens cast their ballots to elect representatives at the federal and regional houses.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 — Leaders of political parties and independent candidates cast their ballots at polling stations across Ethiopia on Monday as voting continued in the country’s 7th General Election, with political actors urging citizens to participate peacefully and respect the outcome of the democratic process. Among those voting was Chairman of the Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice, Eyob Mesafint, who cast his ballot at Polling Station 18 in Kirkos Sub City, Addis Ababa. Speaking after voting, Eyob expressed confidence in the electoral process and emphasized the importance of broad public participation. "We will accept the results as long as the process is democratic and concludes in the same manner it started," he said. The opposition leader noted that he had not encountered any major difficulties during the voting process and encouraged all registered voters to make use of their voter cards and exercise their constitutional right to vote. Chairman of the Freedom and Equality Party, Abdulkadir Adem, also cast his ballot at Polling Station 8 in Constituency 24 of Kolfe Keranio Sub City in Addis Ababa. Elsewhere, Secretary General of the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Party, Mistireselassie Tamrat, participated in the election, while President of the Wolaita People's Liberation Movement, Woldemariam Lisanu, cast his vote at Gale 1 Polling Station in Wolaita Zone. In the Sidama Regional State, representatives of competing political parties reported that voting was progressing peacefully and smoothly. Party officials from both ruling and opposition camps said the process was generally fair and free from significant challenges. Among those sharing this assessment were Abraham Marshalo from Prosperity Party in Sidama; Wondimu Haile from Ethiopian Citizens for Social justice; Shibeshi Mekonnen and Tamrat Assefa from Hibir Ethiopia Democratic Party. Independent candidate Abraham Tilahun, who is contesting for a seat in the House of Peoples' Representatives from Addis Ababa's Bole Constituency, cast his ballot at Lem Shemachoch Polling Station. As millions of Ethiopians continue to vote across the country, party leaders and candidates have called on eligible citizens to participate actively in the electoral process and cast their ballots for the candidates and parties of their choice. They also reaffirmed their commitment to respecting the will of the electorate and accepting the outcome of the election, underscoring the importance of a peaceful and credible democratic process.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 — The Minister of Defense, Aisha Mohammed, and the Minister of Peace, Mohamed Idris, have cast their ballots in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, joining millions of citizens participating in the nationwide democratic exercise. Senior government officials have continued to cast their ballots across different parts of the nation, underscoring the significance of the nationwide democratic exercise. Minister of Defense Aisha Mohammed cast her vote at the Afdera polling station in the Afar Regional State. Speaking after casting her ballot, the minister stressed the importance of citizen participation in strengthening the democratic process. "The election provides citizens with an opportunity to actively contribute to the future of their country through peaceful and democratic means," she said, calling on eligible voters to exercise their constitutional right and civic responsibility. Meanwhile, Minister of Peace Mohamed Idris cast his vote in Gondar Constituency 2 of the Amhara Regional State, where he is also contesting for a seat in the election. The minister joined thousands of voters who turned out at polling stations across Gondar City from the early hours of the morning. According to local election officials, Gondar has two constituencies and 240 polling stations established to facilitate the voting process. The 7th General Election is being conducted nationwide under the supervision of the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), with millions of registered voters expected to elect representatives at both federal and regional levels. Across the country, polling stations opened early in the morning, with reports indicating strong voter turnout and orderly voting processes in many areas. The participation of senior government leaders, political candidates, and ordinary citizens reflects the broad national engagement in an election widely regarded as an important milestone in Ethiopia's ongoing democratic journey.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —The Chairperson of the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), Melatework Hailu, has affirmed that Ethiopia’s 7th General Election is being conducted in a free, fair, and democratic manner, as millions of citizens cast their ballots across the country. Speaking to the media this afternoon, Melatework said the Board had successfully completed all the necessary preparations ahead of the vote, creating the conditions for a transparent, independent, and credible electoral process. She noted that extensive preparations had been carried out since the launch of the election process to ensure that the poll would be conducted in accordance with democratic principles and established electoral standards. According to the Chairperson, all pre-election arrangements were finalized on schedule, allowing voting to commence smoothly nationwide at 6:00 a.m. She added that voters began arriving at polling stations from the early hours of the morning, exercising their democratic rights freely and peacefully. Across Ethiopia, citizens are electing members of nine regional state councils and a new federal parliament. The vote would play a decisive role in shaping the country’s future political leadership and governance agenda. 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 democratic exercises. The election has drawn significant attention both at home and abroad, reflecting Ethiopia’s position as one of Africa’s most populous and strategically influential nations. The scale of the election underscores its significance. More than 54 million registered voters are eligible to participate, choosing from candidates representing 42 political parties. Over 10,000 candidates are contesting public offices, while approximately 52,000 polling stations have been established across the country to ensure broad voter access. Beyond determining political representation, the election is widely viewed as a major institutional milestone in Ethiopia’s democratic journey. Observers note that its outcome is expected to influence the nation’s political landscape, governance priorities, and development trajectory for years to come. Expressing confidence in the ongoing process, Melatework reiterated NEBE's commitment to ensuring that the election remains transparent, inclusive, peaceful, and reflective of the will of the Ethiopian people. As voting continues nationwide, the strong turnout witnessed across many polling stations signals robust public engagement in shaping the country's future through the ballot box, ENA learned.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —President Taye Atske Selassie said Ethiopia’s 2026 Election is a pivotal step towards building a very stable and strong Ethiopia. Casting his vote earlier today, President Taye stressed that “this election is by many standards phenomenal.” More than 54 million people got registered and are very much excited to vote, which is indeed exceptional for Ethiopia, he added. For the president, the number of registered voters is huge, while 42 political parties are competing, which is significant alongside a significant number of independent candidates. President Taye further asserted that this is one of the steps towards building a very stable and strong Ethiopia. “I am very much excited. I know there are so many detractors out there; there is nothing new about it. It has been the case all-over the world but indeed this is a day that we show to the world that the ballot is stronger than the bullet.” Underscoring that he is voting for his community, voting for himself, and voting for his country, he described the day as very special.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —Addis Ababans are demonstrating that they are the main source of power to form a government by overwhelmingly voting across all the polling stations in the city, Mayor Adanech Abiebie said today. Ethiopia’s 7th General Election is underway with polling stations opening their doors at 6:00 A.M across the country. Casting her vote this morning, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech said the election process is being conducted in a democratic, free, and fair manner. For the Mayor, the people are demonstrating in practice that they are the main source of power to form a government.   She stressed the need for the people to realize that wasting their voter cards is a waste of their rights, urging them to cast their votes. Ethiopia's General Election is well underway under the observation of continental and domestic election observers. The election is being conducted with participation from 42 competing political parties and dozens of independent candidates.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 —Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh cast his vote at the Hidase Polling Station (02-1) in the Bahir Dar election constituency. Speaking after casting his ballot, DPM Temesgen praised the strong voter turnout observed across the country, noting that more than 54 million registered voters had headed to polling stations early in the morning to participate in the democratic process. He stated that citizens had turned out in large numbers to strengthen their nation through the ballot box, describing the election as an important opportunity for Ethiopians to shape the future of their country. "I, too, have cast my vote as a citizen in the 7th General Election at a polling station in Bahir Dar," he said. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that elections are a pillar of Ethiopia's democratic system and that the voice of the people serves as the foundation for establishing the government that will lead the country in the future. He noted that every vote cast contributes to lasting peace, development, and prosperity, adding that citizens are demonstrating Ethiopia's democratic progress by actively participating in the election and determining their future through their votes. He also called on all eligible voters who have not yet cast their ballots to do so before polling stations close, urging them to fulfill their civic responsibility and contribute to the successful completion of the election. The participation of senior government leaders comes as voting continues peacefully across Ethiopia, with millions of citizens turning out at polling stations nationwide in one of the country's largest democratic exercises.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 — Chief Administrators of the Afar, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Gambella regional states cast their ballots early this morning as voting commenced across the nation for Ethiopia's 7th General Election. In the Afar Region, Chief Administrator Awol Arba exercised his democratic right at the Asada Polling Station within the Chifra constituency. Concurrently, Benishangul-Gumuz Chief Administrator Ashadli Hassan cast his vote at the 02 Polling Station in the Buldglu constituency, where he is also standing as a candidate. In the Gambella Region, Chief Administrator Alemitu Umod cast her ballot at the Ukedi Bethlehem Primary Clinic Polling Station within the Gog constituency. Following their participation, the regional leaders commended the citizens' peaceful and highly enthusiastic participation. Afar Region Chief Administrator Awol Arba underscored that elections serve as the bedrock for nurturing a robust democratic system and building a resilient state. Expressing immense pride in voting alongside his constituents during this milestone, he remarked that the electoral process beautifully reflects the unity and greatness of the Ethiopian people, noting that citizens are ultimately voting for enduring peace and liberty. In Benishangul-Gumuz, Ashadli Hassan observed that the voting process has been exemplary, progressing in a thoroughly peaceful and democratic manner. He highlighted that citizens began gathering at various polling stations at dawn, eagerly exercising their freedom to choose their leadership for the upcoming term. Reports from the Gog constituency in Gambella similarly mirror this atmosphere, with local communities showing a profound commitment to civic duty. This election stands as a defining chapter in Ethiopia’s ongoing journey toward institutional maturity and consolidated democracy. To facilitate a seamless process, the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has deployed comprehensive logistics nationwide,ensuring that voting remains transparent, credible, and inclusive. A total of more than 54 million voters have registered to participate in this election cycle. The competitive political landscape features 42 political parties, with 10,438 party nominees and 80 independent candidates vying for seats. The representatives chosen by the electorate today will serve a five-year term in the House of People's Representatives and respective regional councils, establishing the legislative framework and governance direction for the nation's future. Local and international observers present at various stations report that the polling process continues smoothly in an atmosphere of peace and mutual respect.

Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 — Chief Administrators of the Amhara, Oromia, and Somali regional states cast their ballots early this morning as voting commenced for Ethiopia’s 7th General Election. Amhara Region Chief Administrator Arega Kebede voted at the Hidassie Polling Station in the Bahir Dar constituency, while residents of the city continue to vote across the 164 polling stations. In the Oromia Region, Chief Administrator Shimelis Abdisa exercised his democratic right at the Abiyot Square public gathering polling station within the Dendi 2 constituency in Ginchi town. Concurrently, Somali Regional State Chief Administrator Mustafe Mohammed cast his ballot at the Garado Building polling station in Degehabur town, where local residents arrived early to select candidates who will represent them for the next five years. Citizens across these three populous states have turned out in massive numbers since dawn. In Bahir Dar, the process is progressing smoothly with an orderly and high-spirited atmosphere. In Ginchi town and across wider Oromia, a profound sense of civic enthusiasm has been observed as citizens stand in long queues to cast their votes. Similarly, in Degehabur, the momentum remains vibrant, with voters actively participating to shape their governance for the coming term. This immense regional participation aligns with a broader nationwide mobilization. Polling stations across the country opened promptly at 6:00 AM, with more than 54 million registered voters expected to exercise their constitutional rights throughout the day. This election represents a crucial milestone in deepening Ethiopia’s democratic landscape and strengthening its institutional foundations. The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has deployed extensive logistics across the country to ensure an inclusive, transparent, and credible voting process. The representatives elected today will hold office for a five-year term, bearing the responsibility of guiding the nation's policy and governance framework. International and local observers note that the peaceful, large-scale turnout witnessed underscores a growing public commitment to robust civic engagement and long-term national stability.