Afar, Benishangul-Gumuz, and Gambella Regional State Chiefs Cast Ballots

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.