Addis Ababa, May 1, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has praised Ethiopians for what he described as their extraordinary unity and patriotism during the country’s 7th General Election, which is now in its closing hours following an extension of voting time.
Earlier today, the Prime Minister cast his ballot in Beshasha, Jimma Zone of the Oromia Region, joining millions of Ethiopians who participated in the nationwide vote.
In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister said Ethiopians had once again demonstrated their rich culture, deep patriotism, and commitment to safeguarding the common good through active participation in the electoral process.
He highlighted the determination of citizens who voted under difficult conditions, including cold weather, darkness, midday heat, and sudden rain.
He also noted participation despite weddings, funerals, childbirth, illness, old age, and physical disabilities, as well as long queues and other challenges. He further commended voters who carried infants and those who were not deterred by intimidation or threats.
According to the message, the perseverance demonstrated by citizens was a contribution to strengthening democracy and ensuring national continuity, for which he expressed gratitude.
The Prime Minister said it was a privilege to serve the Ethiopian people and called on elected officials to honor the trust placed in them by serving with integrity and sincerity, noting that citizens had paid a significant price for the democratic process.
Ethiopia’s 7th General Election is currently in its final hours following an extension of voting time, with polling stations still processing voters who were in line before the official closing period.
The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), in its briefing, said the voting process had largely proceeded in line with electoral frameworks, citing orderly conduct, polling station readiness, and widespread participation across monitored areas.
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) also noted generally peaceful voting conditions in observed locations, while emphasizing the importance of protecting electoral rights, ensuring accessibility for vulnerable groups, and safeguarding civic freedoms throughout the process.
Competing political party leaders across different regions also described the process as largely peaceful and orderly, highlighting improvements in voter access, organization, and transparency during the voting day.
Regional and international observation missions, including the African Union and the IGAD Election Observation Mission, reported overall progress in the conduct of the election, pointing to increased efficiency, participation, and information flow supporting the electoral process.
The Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE) also reported that voting procedures were conducted largely in line with established electoral frameworks, based on nationwide monitoring of polling stations and key indicators.
Across the country, voters participated under diverse circumstances, including newlyweds casting ballots on their wedding day, elderly citizens exercising their civic rights, persons with disabilities supported at polling stations, and new mothers voting while caring for infants, reflecting broad national participation in the democratic process.