AMN Plus-June 3, 2026
Dr. Specioza Wandira Kazibwe, Head of the IGAD Election Observer Mission to Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, has praised the conduct of the election, describing it as remarkable for its unprecedented level of public participation.
Briefing the media on the Preliminary Assessment Report of the African Union (AU) and IGAD Election Observer Missions, Dr. Kazibwe said that despite observing numerous elections across different countries, Ethiopia’s election stood out for the extraordinary turnout of voters.
She highlighted the inclusiveness of the electoral process, noting the active participation of women and persons with disabilities. She also pointed to the long queues of voters that formed from the early hours of the day and continued well into the night.
Expressing her admiration, Dr. Kazibwe said she had never witnessed such extensive voter turnout elsewhere, describing the lines of citizens waiting to cast their ballots as “extremely long.”
According to her observations, many Ethiopians remained committed to exercising their democratic right, with voting activities continuing until midnight in some areas.
“This election demonstrated the importance that the public attaches to the democratic process,” Dr. Kazibwe stated.
The African Union and IGAD Election Observer Missions are currently presenting their preliminary assessment report on the overall conduct of Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, providing initial observations on the electoral process and voter participation across the country.
By Birhanu Workneh
