NEBE Announces Digital Overhaul for Upcoming Seventh National Election

Addis Ababa, June 10, 2025 (ENA)— The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has announced that the upcoming seventh national election will be supported by a fully integrated digital system, marking a significant step toward the modernization of Ethiopia’s electoral process.

As part of its preparations, NEBE is rolling out a range of digital initiatives designed to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accessibility. These include the launch of comprehensive digital platforms for both candidate registration and voter enrollment, two critical pillars of the electoral system.

 To foster collaboration on this digital transformation, NEBE convened a high-level forum in Addis Ababa, bringing together representatives from political parties and key stakeholders to discuss the integration of advanced technologies into the electoral framework. The forum aims to build consensus around the role of digital tools in delivering credible and efficient elections.

 

 Speaking at the forum’s opening, NEBE Chairperson Melatwerk Hailu reaffirmed the board’s commitment to leveraging technology to strengthen democratic institutions. She highlighted the development of a robust, technology-driven election management system as a major milestone in NEBE’s reform agenda.

 Chairperson Melatwerk confirmed that digital applications for both candidate and voter registration have been fully developed and are now operational. All candidate registrations for the upcoming election will be conducted exclusively through these systems.

 Designed entirely by NEBE’s in-house technical team, the new technology is expected to reduce administrative costs, save time, and streamline the overall election process.

 Senay Amdework, NEBE’s Technical Team Manager, stated that the digital platforms meet international standards and will allow voters and candidates to register remotely, significantly minimizing logistical challenges.

 Political party leaders welcomed the initiative, praising its potential to enhance transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

 Mebratu Alemu, Executive Director of the Boro Democratic Party and a member of the House of Peoples’ Representatives, lauded the applications for simplifying candidate registration and fostering a more open electoral environment.

 Tesfamariam Gucha, Chairman of the All Sidama People’s Democratic Unity Party, commended the cost and time-saving benefits of the new system, particularly its capacity to facilitate remote registration.

 Netsanet Tasew, President of the Wollo People’s Democratic Party, echoed these sentiments, describing NEBE’s modernization efforts as a commendable stride toward democratic progress.