Millions of Ethiopians have begun casting their ballots in the country’s 7th General Election, marking a significant moment in the nation’s ongoing political transition and democratic development.
Voting commenced early across more than 52,000 polling stations nationwide, with over 54 million registered voters expected to participate in the election to choose members of the federal parliament and representatives to nine regional state councils, Ethiopia News Agency reported .
The process has drawn wide regional and international attention, with election observation missions from the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) monitoring the opening of polling stations and the early stages of voting.
Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, who is leading the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM), expressed optimism regarding the conduct of the electoral process, noting continued engagement by observers as voting proceeds across the country.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed cast his vote in his hometown of Beshasha, joining millions of citizens participating in what is widely viewed as a defining political exercise for Africa’s second most populous nation.
Observers say the election carries significant weight not only for Ethiopia’s domestic governance structure but also for broader regional stability and geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa.
Authorities have urged calm and adherence to electoral procedures as counting and subsequent results are expected to shape the country’s political direction in the coming period.
Mustaqbal
