Addis Ababa, June 3, 2026 (FMC) — Former Kenyan President and Head of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) Uhuru Kenyatta has praised the high level of discipline, coordination, and professionalism demonstrated during Ethiopia’s 7th General Election.
Presenting the mission’s preliminary statement in Addis Ababa, Kenyatta highlighted the conduct of election officials and security personnel as a key strength observed throughout election day operations across polling stations visited by AU observers.
The mission noted that polling officials demonstrated strong adherence to established electoral procedures, including voter identification, ballot sealing, stamping of ballot papers, and the application of indelible ink, all of which contributed to a structured and orderly voting process.
According to the African Union Election Observation Mission, security personnel deployed across polling stations were present in a professional and non-intrusive manner, contributing to a calm environment that enabled voters to exercise their democratic rights freely.
Kenyatta also commended the coordination between election administrators and other stakeholders, noting that domestic observers, political party agents, and media representatives were widely present and actively engaged in supporting transparency and accountability.
The mission further observed that election preparations and logistics demonstrated a strong level of readiness, with essential materials available in all polling stations visited and procedures generally followed in line with electoral guidelines.
Kenyatta said the overall management of election day reflected commitment and professionalism from all actors involved, contributing to a generally peaceful and orderly voting process across the country.
The AU mission also noted that voter participation was supported by structured guidance at polling stations, helping citizens understand procedures and enabling smooth conduct of voting activities.
In his remarks, Kenyatta emphasized that the conduct of election officials, security forces, and supporting stakeholders played an important role in ensuring public confidence in the electoral process.
The African Union Election Observation Mission reaffirmed its commitment to supporting continued strengthening of electoral administration, institutional capacity, and democratic processes in Ethiopia.