Anticipation Peaks Nationwide as Ethiopia Stands on the Eve of Historic General Election

Addis Ababa, May 31, 2026 (FMC) — Anticipation has peaked across Ethiopia as the country stands on the eve of its 7th general election, with nationwide preparations completed, citizens expressing readiness to vote, youth preparing for first-time participation, and security agencies confirming full preparedness to ensure a peaceful electoral process.

The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) confirmed that all essential election materials — including ballot papers, ballot boxes, and other required logistical supplies — have been fully distributed to polling stations across the country in line with the national electoral timetable. Officials said polling stations are now in the final stage of preparation ahead of voting scheduled for tomorrow.

According to NEBE, final activities at polling stations include the organization of voting sites, completion of logistical arrangements, and verification of operational readiness to ensure smooth and orderly voting across all constituencies.

The 7th general election, scheduled for June 1, 2026, is expected to involve more than 54 million registered voters nationwide, making it one of the largest democratic exercises in Ethiopia’s history.

Across regional states, citizens have expressed strong anticipation and readiness to participate in the vote, describing the election as both a civic responsibility and a defining national moment. Many voters said they are prepared to cast their ballots using voter identification cards issued ahead of the election, emphasizing that participation reflects both constitutional rights and engagement in national decision-making.

Youth across the country have also expressed readiness to take part in the electoral process, with first-time voters describing the election as a historic milestone marking their entry into national democratic participation. Young citizens emphasized their role in shaping the country’s future and called for responsible and peaceful engagement during the voting process.

In addition, citizens across different regions underscored the importance of peaceful and orderly conduct of the election, calling on eligible voters to participate actively and responsibly in the nationwide process.

Security agencies have confirmed full preparedness to ensure a safe and stable electoral environment. The Addis Ababa Police Commission stated that comprehensive security arrangements have been finalized for both election day and the post-election period through coordinated planning among relevant institutions.

Authorities indicated that joint operational frameworks are in place to prevent potential disruptions, support peaceful voting, and ensure that citizens are able to exercise their democratic rights without interference. The public has also been encouraged to report security concerns through designated hotlines and communication channels as part of broader efforts to maintain stability during the electoral process.

The election is also being observed by African-led and African-owned election observation missions, including the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Election Observation Mission headed by former Ugandan Vice President Dr. Speciosa Wandira Kazibwe.

The continental missions have been coordinating their assessment and observation activities ahead of the vote, reflecting strengthened African institutional engagement in supporting credible, transparent, and inclusive electoral processes. Their presence underscores growing continental ownership of election observation and broader efforts to advance democratic governance through African-led frameworks.