AMN PLUS-October 1, 2026
Following the free and fair conclusion of the 7th general election held on June 1, 2026 the Addis Abba City has formed a new administration on September 30, 2026. The formation of the new administration marks a notable departure from previous administrations, particularly in terms of the increased number of new appointees, greater ethnic and religious diversity, and enhanced youth participation.
In her inaugural speech delivered during the formation of the new administration and the opening session of the Addis Ababa City Council, the reappointed Mayor of Addis Ababa Adanech Abiebie emphasized that the occasion represented far more than a formal appointment or the official opening of the Council. Rather, she described it as a moment for both herself and the newly appointed council members to reaffirm their commitment to the responsibility entrusted to them and to embrace a new chapter of dedicated service to the residents of Addis Ababa.
In her speech, the Mayor noted that the people of Addis Ababa participated extensively in the 7th General and Citywide Election held on June 1, 2026. She said that, through this process, residents demonstrated their strong aspiration to contribute to democratic advancement, as well as their firm commitment to peace, stability, and public participation laying a strong foundation for the journey ahead.
“The question of building democracy, which has been passed down from generation to generation, has reached a decisive stage today, showing continuous progress and improvement from yesterday to today. In particular, the 7th General Election has marked an important milestone in strengthening Ethiopians’ democratic experience, as citizens freely chose those they believed would best serve their interests. Today, we have reached a point where we are able to establish governments at different levels based on the voice and will of the people, and we are now putting this into practice,” the mayor said.
She further explained that the vote cast by the residents of the city carries two meanings. First, it reflects their appreciation for and confidence in the development activities carried out by the government and the peace efforts undertaken during the past years of reform. At the same time, although many questions remain unanswered and numerous challenges are yet to be resolved, the vote demonstrates that residents, encouraged by the achievements made so far and hopeful for the future, believe that the issues can be addressed and the remaining challenges resolved. It also confirms their confidence in the forward-looking ideas and vision of the Prosperity Party.
Second, although the number of voters who supported the Prosperity Party was significant, the combined votes of citizens who chose various competing parties should not be underestimated. She described this as a healthy and democratic process.
Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie said the concrete results achieved in the seventh round of elections have taken political participation and the idea of pluralism to a new level. She noted that 12 political parties have secured representation in the new City Council, with 23 members from competing political parties and one independent candidate winning seats.
The mayor emphasized that every resident of Addis Ababa, regardless of whether they voted for the prosperity party or not, is an equal citizen with equal rights. She said all residents deserve equal respect and have an equal right to access public services. Accordingly, she pledged that the city administration would fulfill its responsibility to serve all residents with integrity, equality, and respect, regardless of their electoral choices.
Mayor Adanech also said that having different political views should not be considered as hostility. She said the administration would work together with other political groups on issues where they share common ground, in pursuit of the common interest and national vision. On issues where differences exist, she said, the parties would engage in civilized dialogue, respect their differences, and make decisions through discussion.
Beyond political diversity, the mayor highlighted the representation of women and young people in the new City Council. She said women account for 41 percent of the council, while young people make up 40 percent, alongside representatives drawn from different sectors and communities. According to Mayor Adanech, the composition demonstrates the formation of a City Council with greater inclusiveness and broader public participation.
By Leta Tersa