Addis Ababa, June 3, 2026 (FMC) — The African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) has stated that Ethiopia’s 7th General Election was conducted in line with established continental electoral standards and frameworks, noting progress in electoral administration, broad civic participation, and ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic processes.
Presenting its preliminary statement in Addis Ababa on Wednesday, the mission led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said the electoral process reflected Ethiopia’s continued commitment to regional and international democratic instruments, while highlighting areas of institutional development and operational experience gained during the conduct of the elections.
The mission deployed 73 short-term observers across eight regions of Ethiopia, covering 495 polling stations in urban, peri-urban, and rural areas. Observers assessed opening, voting, closing, and counting procedures in accordance with African Union election observation methodology.
The AU noted that the elections were conducted within a comprehensive legal and institutional framework that aligns with continental and international democratic principles. It also highlighted reforms introduced by the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), including improvements in voter registration systems, dispute resolution mechanisms, and expanded use of digital and hybrid technologies.
According to the mission, approximately 50.5 million voters were registered for the election, with women accounting for 46 percent of registered voters, reflecting expanded participation under the hybrid registration system introduced by NEBE.
On election day, polling stations generally opened in an orderly and timely manner, with essential materials available in all stations visited. Ballot boxes were properly sealed and established procedures were largely followed throughout the voting process.
Security personnel were present in most polling stations and were assessed as professional and non-intrusive, contributing to a calm environment that enabled voters to participate freely in the electoral process.
The mission further noted strong voter engagement across the country, with sustained participation throughout the day and priority arrangements in place for elderly persons, women with children, and persons with disabilities.
Observers reported that election administration benefited from improved coordination and procedural compliance, with polling officials generally demonstrating preparedness and adherence to established guidelines.
The mission highlighted advancements in electoral administration, including the introduction and use of digital and hybrid voter registration systems, expanded civic and voter education efforts, and strengthened stakeholder engagement throughout the electoral process.
It noted that these developments contributed to improved organization of the electoral process and broader voter access, particularly in areas where voter education and logistical support were reinforced through collaboration between electoral institutions and civil society actors.
The AU also observed that voting did not take place in Tigray and parts of Oromia and Amhara regions due to security and operational constraints, while special arrangements were made for internally displaced persons and members of the security services to participate through designated voting mechanisms.
The mission emphasized that Ethiopia’s electoral process continues to evolve within a broader framework of institutional strengthening and democratic consolidation.
It highlighted improvements in electoral procedures, stakeholder coordination, and standardized voting practices that contribute to strengthening confidence in the system.
The mission further recognized the efforts of electoral stakeholders, including NEBE, political parties, civil society organizations, security agencies, and observer groups, in supporting the conduct of the elections.
The African Union Election Observation Mission stated that Ethiopia’s 7th General Election reflects continued alignment with continental electoral standards and frameworks, alongside ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic governance and institutional capacity.
The mission called on all stakeholders to maintain peace and stability as counting, tabulation, and results management continue, and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s democratic and electoral development.
A comprehensive final report will be issued following the completion of all electoral processes and the announcement of final results.