Eight opposition political parties in Ethiopia have voiced serious concerns regarding the credibility of the country’s upcoming 7th national election, warning that early problems in the candidate registration phase could undermine the entire electoral process and prevent it from being participatory, honest, and credible.
In a joint statement issued on 22 January 2026, the parties stated that although the electoral process has only just entered the candidate registration stage, they are already encountering significant challenges that, in their words, are “darkening the peaceful political landscape.” The opposition groups cautioned that these early irregularities pose a serious risk to public trust in the election and the broader democratic transition in Ethiopia.
The statement was signed by Hibir Ethiopia Democratic Party, All Ethiopian Unity Organization (AEUO), Balderas for Genuine Democracy, Cooperation for Ethiopian Unity, Amara Ghionian Movement, Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP), Ethiopian Social Democratic Party (ESDP), and the Wolaita National Movement (WNM).
The opposition parties emphasized that the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) carries a historic responsibility to act decisively and impartially, particularly after what they described as more than three decades of failed democratic transitions. According to the statement, NEBE was expected to play a corrective role by ensuring fairness, transparency, and equal treatment of all political actors throughout the electoral process.
One of the key concerns raised relates to recent administrative changes following the division of the former Southern Region into four separate regions. The parties alleged that, in Sidama, Central Ethiopia, South Ethiopia, and the remaining Southern areas, the ruling party was permitted to register between five and ten regional council candidates per constituency without the knowledge or involvement of opposition parties. This development, they argued, raises serious questions about the neutrality and independence of the election board.
The opposition groups warned that such practices, if left unaddressed, could further erode confidence in the electoral process and deepen political mistrust. They called on NEBE to uphold its constitutional mandate by guaranteeing a level playing field for all contestants and ensuring that the 7th national election meets both domestic and international standards for free and fair elections.
The parties concluded by stressing that credible elections are essential for lasting political stability in Ethiopia, and that any failure to address these early warning signs could have long-term consequences for the country’s democratic future.
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