Women encouraged to assert political ownership in Ethiopia’s upcoming general election

Addis Ababa, March 3, 2026 (FMC) — Women must assume a leading role in ensuring the successful conduct of Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, Vice President of the ruling Prosperity Party (PP), Adem Farah, has said.

The remarks were made at a national concluding forum convened by the Ministry of Peace in collaboration with women’s organizations under the theme “Women’s Role for Peaceful National Elections.” The event brought together stakeholders to deliberate on strengthening women’s engagement in the electoral process and safeguarding peaceful democratic participation.

Addressing participants, Mr. Adem underscored that the upcoming general election scheduled for June 1, 2026, requires active and meaningful participation of women for it to be credible and successful. He stressed that women must make their mark not only as voters, but also as candidates and custodians of peace throughout the electoral cycle.

The Vice President noted that the reform-oriented administration that came to power in 2018 has significantly expanded women’s empowerment and representation. He stated that women’s participation in leadership has surpassed 50 percent, describing the achievement as a milestone with global significance.

Mr. Adem further highlighted that major national initiatives undertaken in recent years — including corridor development projects, the Green Legacy Initiative, and the Bounty of the Basket (YeLemat Trufat) program — have delivered tangible benefits to women across various segments of society.

According to him, the presence of women at the helm of key decision-making institutions demonstrates the tangible outcomes of the ongoing reform agenda and the government’s commitment to gender inclusion.

Emphasizing political ownership, the PP Vice President urged women to exercise both their right to vote and to stand for election in the upcoming national poll. He stated that their participation is vital to ensuring that the election process remains peaceful and grounded in the superiority of ideas.

He also called upon women to fulfill their responsibility in guiding and educating the youth to actively engage in the electoral process, thereby contributing to a stable and democratic national environment.