Addis Ababa, May 27, 2026 (FMC) — Competing political parties in Ethiopia say that ongoing election debates and campaign forums have provided important platforms to present their policy positions and strategic alternatives to the public ahead of the 7th general election scheduled for June 1, 2026.
The parties noted that the structured campaign environment, including media access and public debates, has created wider opportunities to communicate their manifestos and engage voters across different platforms.
The Deputy Chairman and Election Desk Coordinator of the Hibir Ethiopia Democratic Party, Abera Bekele, said the party has prepared and presented its electoral manifesto to the public, using campaign forums and media appearances to introduce its policy options and strategic direction.
He stated that the media has played a constructive role in facilitating public debate by providing airtime allocated in accordance with schedules set by the National Election Board of Ethiopia, allowing parties to present their views.
According to Abera, the current campaign process and media coverage are notably improved compared to the 6th general election. He added that the party has been actively conducting campaign activities in various regions and city administrations where it is fielding candidates.
He further emphasized that public participation is essential for strengthening democratic practice based on the supremacy of ideas in the transfer of political power, urging voters to make informed choices at the ballot box.
Similarly, the President of the Hidase Party, Yemane Assefa, said his party has effectively presented its manifesto and policy alternatives to the public through various media platforms, utilizing airtime allocated by the National Election Board of Ethiopia in collaboration with the Ethiopian Media Authority.
He added that the party has also used additional outreach methods, including leaflet distribution, door-to-door campaigns, and social media engagement to expand its message.
Yemane stated that the Hidase Party is pursuing a political approach that moves away from confrontation and extremism, instead emphasizing leadership, dialogue, and political moderation. He also noted that the party did not face any security-related challenges during its campaign activities.
Overall, the parties said the election debates and campaign environment have allowed for relatively free expression of political ideas, contributing positively to the country’s broader democratic process.