1.    INTRODUCTION

At the invitation of the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, deployed an African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) to observe the 1 June 2026, 7^th General Elections.

The Mission was led by H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta, former President of the Republic of Kenya, and supported by H.E. Geoffrey Onyeama, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as Deputy Head of Mission.

The Mission comprised a team of 73 Short-Term Observers (STOs), 61 per cent of whom were women. Of the total team, 59 accredited observers were deployed to the field. The observers were drawn from 35 [1] African countries and included election management body officials, representatives of civil society organisations, election experts, governance and human rights practitioners, youth representatives, legal professionals, diplomats, media experts and gender specialists.

The Mission was deployed in accordance with the relevant African Union instruments governing democratic elections, including the Constitutive Act of the African Union, the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG), the AU Declaration on the Principles Governing Democratic Elections in Africa, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), and the African Union Guidelines for Election Observation Missions.

Prior to the deployment of the STO Mission, the African Union deployed a Pre-Election Assessment Mission (PAM) to Ethiopia from 16–20 March 2026 to assess the state of preparedness for the elections and the broader political, legal and security environment. Building on the findings of the PAM, the AUEOM undertook consultations with a range of electoral stakeholders, including NEBE, government officials, political parties, civil society organisations, development partners and other relevant actors. The Mission also reviewed the legal framework governing the elections and assessed the political, electoral and security environment in the lead-up to the polls.

On election day, the Mission deployed 27 observer teams across eight regions of Ethiopia, namely Addis Ababa, Oromia, Dire Dawa, Sidama, South Ethiopia, Harari, Benishangul-Gumuz and Somali. The Mission observed voting procedures in 495 polling stations across 38 constituencies, covering urban, peri-urban and rural areas. Mission observers assessed the opening, voting, closing and, where possible, counting procedures, in accordance with the African Union’s election observation methodology.

This Preliminary Statement presents the Mission’s assessment of the electoral process up to the time of its issuance. The Mission notes that voting has concluded across the country, including in polling stations where voting hours were extended on election day. While counting and tabulation processes are underway and some results may still be pending, this statement reflects the Mission’s observations and assessment of the electoral process up to this stage.

The Mission further notes that voting did not take place in the Tigray Region and in some parts of the Oromia and Amhara regions due to prevailing security and operational challenges. The Mission notes the commitment of the relevant authorities to conduct elections in these areas once conditions permit. In addition, special voting arrangements for members of the military, security services and internally displaced persons (IDPs) are scheduled for 8 June 2026. The official announcement of final election results is expected on 11 June 2026.

The Mission will continue to follow developments throughout the remainder of the electoral process and will issue a final report containing its comprehensive findings, conclusions and recommendations.

2.    PRE-ELECTION FINDINGS

   2.1 Political Context

The Mission observed that the 1 June 2026 General Elections constitute Ethiopia’s second electoral cycle under the reforms introduced following the country’s political transition in 2018. The elections reflect Ethiopia’s commitment to constitutional governance and democratic principles as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and relevant regional and international instruments.

The elections took place within a complex political environment characterised by ongoing political, institutional and governance reforms, as well as efforts to advance national dialogue and democratic consolidation.

The Mission further observed that the elections were conducted against a backdrop of persistent security challenges in parts of the country, particularly in the Tigray, Amhara and Oromia regions. Stakeholders indicated that insecurity affected political activities, campaign operations and voter participation in some areas. The Mission notes that Tigray Region did not participate in the 2021 or 2026 electoral processes, while efforts continue towards creating conditions conducive to its future participation in national electoral processes.

   2.2 Legal Framework

The Mission noted that the 1 June 2026 General Elections were conducted within a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework that provides the basis for democratic elections and guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms necessary for political participation, including the rights to vote, be elected, and participate in public affairs.

The Mission further observed that recent reforms introduced measures aimed at strengthening electoral administration, enhancing electoral dispute resolution mechanisms, promoting the participation of women, youth and persons with disabilities, and supporting the use of technology in the electoral process.

Overall, the Mission assessed the legal and institutional framework as broadly adequate for the conduct of democratic elections and generally consistent with Ethiopia’s constitutional principles and regional and international commitments. Stakeholders consulted by the Mission generally acknowledged the adequacy of the framework while noting the importance of its consistent implementation throughout the electoral process.

   2.3 Electoral Administration and Preparedness

      2.3.1    Boundary Delimitation and Voter Registration

The Mission observed that voter registration for the 2026 General Elections was conducted within an established legal and regulatory framework that provides for the registration of eligible voters and seeks to uphold the principles of universal and equal suffrage.

The Mission noted that voter registration was conducted through a hybrid digital-manual system introduced by NEBE as part of efforts to strengthen electoral administration and improve the management of voter data. Approximately 50.5 million voters were registered, comprising 54% men and 46% women. This exceeded NEBE’s initial target of 40 million registrants and represented a significant increase compared to the 2021 General Elections. The Mission also noted measures aimed at broadening participation, including the registration of citizens who would attain the age of 18 by polling day, as well as arrangements to facilitate the participation of first-time voters, internally displaced persons (IDPs), students and members of the security services.

Stakeholders generally welcomed the voter registration exercise and the extensive efforts undertaken by NEBE to register eligible voters across the country.

The Mission further observed that insecurity affected voter registration in some areas, resulting in the inactivity of 6,400 polling stations across 46 constituencies and limiting access to registration services for some communities.

Overall, the Mission noted that the voter registration exercise contributed to the registration of a substantial number of eligible voters and reflected ongoing efforts to strengthen electoral administration. However, operational and security challenges, as well as boundary delimitation issues affecting the administration of electoral constituencies in some areas, continued to pose obstacles to the full realization of universal and equal suffrage.

      2.3.2    Civic and Voter education

The Mission observed that civic and voter education was conducted within an established legal and institutional framework and was primarily led by NEBE. In collaboration with accredited civil society organisations (CSOs) and development partners, NEBE implemented voter education initiatives through print, broadcast and digital platforms, including materials produced in several local languages. The Mission further noted targeted efforts to reach women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), IDPs and other marginalised groups.

Stakeholders generally welcomed these efforts but noted challenges relating to the reach and effectiveness of voter education activities, particularly among conflict-affected populations.

Overall, the Mission noted that significant efforts were undertaken to promote voter awareness and participation. However, disparities in access to voter education may have affected the ability of some eligible voters to participate in the electoral process on an informed basis.

      2.3.3    Candidate Nomination

The Mission observed that candidate nomination for the 2026 General Elections was conducted within an established legal and regulatory framework that provides for the participation of both political party and independent candidates and includes measures aimed at promoting the participation of women and PWDs.

A total of 10,934 candidates contested the elections, compared to 8,209 in 2021, comprising 2,198 candidates for the House of Peoples’ Representatives and 8,736 candidates for Regional Councils. Candidates were nominated by 47 political parties, alongside 73 independent candidates, reflecting continued public interest in the political process.

The Mission noted efforts to promote the participation of women and other underrepresented groups. However, stakeholders observed that women, PWDs and independent candidates remained underrepresented among candidates and within political party leadership structures. While the Prosperity Party fielded approximately 38% women candidates, ten of the participating political parties did not field any women candidates.

Overall, the Mission noted that the nomination process enabled broad political participation and a significant increase in the number of candidates compared to the 2021 elections. However, further efforts are required to enhance the representation of women and other underrepresented groups in electoral and political processes.

   2.4 Political Parties and Campaign Processes

The Mission observed that the campaign period was conducted within an established legal and regulatory framework that guarantees fundamental freedoms and regulates campaign activities.

The Mission noted that forty-eight (48) political parties subscribed to the Electoral Code of Conduct and that stakeholders generally described the campaign environment as peaceful and free from widespread election-related violence. Campaign activities were conducted across the country, although their visibility varied between regions and localities.

3.    ELECTION DAY FINDINGS

   3.1 Opening

The Mission observed that polling stations generally opened in an orderly manner, with 70% of polling stations visited opening on time at 06:00 in accordance with NEBE directives. Delays in the remaining stations were generally attributed to preparatory and logistical challenges, including adverse weather conditions. Polling stations recorded an average of six polling officials, representing an increase from the average observed during the 2021 elections, while women constituted 37% of polling officials observed.

The Mission noted a high degree of compliance with opening procedures. Essential election materials were available in all polling stations visited, and ballot boxes were correctly sealed and displayed prior to the commencement of voting. Observer teams were able to follow opening procedures freely, while the presence of party agents, domestic observers, including women and youth associations, and media representatives in many polling stations enhanced transparency.

The Mission further observed efforts to facilitate participation from the commencement of polling. Polling officials generally provided guidance to voters regarding voting procedures, while arrangements were in place in many polling stations to accommodate older persons, persons with disabilities, expectant and nursing mothers. However, accessibility challenges were noted in some polling stations located on uneven terrain or upper floors.

Overall, the Mission observed that opening procedures were generally conducted in a professional, transparent and orderly manner.

   3.2 Voting

The Mission observed that voting was conducted in a generally peaceful and orderly environment, with 99% of polling stations visited assessed as peaceful. Security personnel were present in 97% of polling stations observed and generally conducted themselves professionally. Their deployment was typically at an appropriate distance from polling stations, enabling them to maintain security while avoiding undue interference in electoral activities.

The Mission noted a high degree of transparency throughout the voting process. Candidate and party agents, domestic observers and media representatives were able to perform their functions without restriction in 99.6% of polling stations visited. The Mission also observed the consistent application of voter verification and authentication procedures, including the collection of voter registration slips, the signing of voter registers, the verification of voter identity and the stamping of ballot papers in majority of polling stations visited.

Polling officials demonstrated a high level of compliance with key electoral procedures. Ballot boxes were correctly sealed in all polling stations visited, voter identification was verified against the voter register in 99% of stations, ballot papers were stamped in 99% of stations, and voters’ thumbs were marked with indelible ink in 98% of stations. These measures contributed positively to safeguarding the integrity of the vote.

The Mission further observed efforts to facilitate the participation of all eligible voters. Polling stations were accessible to persons with physical disabilities in 85% of stations visited, while priority voting arrangements were generally available for persons with disabilities, older persons, expectant and nursing mothers. Voters requiring assistance were generally supported by polling officials or persons of their choice. However, accessibility remained challenging in some polling stations located on uneven terrain or upper floors.

The Mission observed strong voter engagement throughout the day. In many polling stations, seating areas were provided for voters waiting in queues and polling officials actively guided voters through the voting process. However, voters were turned away in 3% of polling stations visited, primarily because they had reported to the wrong polling station or their names could not be found on the voter register.

While voting proceeded smoothly in 99% of polling stations visited, observers noted operational challenges relating to the management of voter flows. Although polling stations generally recorded an average of six polling officials, the size of some polling stations appeared inadequate relative to the number of voters they were required to serve. Combined with sustained voter turnout throughout the day, this contributed to long queues and delays in the voting process. Consequently, 88% of polling stations visited still recorded queues at the official closing time of 18:00.

The Mission observed that polling officials generally took measures to preserve ballot secrecy. However, in some polling stations the limited size of polling facilities and voting booths resulted in voters, polling officials, party agents and observers operating in close proximity. In isolated instances, the introduction of additional voting booths to manage queues, as well as voter errors in marking ballots, raised some concerns.

Overall, the Mission observed that voting was conducted in a peaceful, transparent and orderly manner, although operational and accessibility challenges were noted in some polling stations.

   3.3 Closing and Counting

The Mission observed that queues remained present in 88% of polling stations visited beyond the official closing time of 18:00. In response, NEBE extended voting by six hours, until midnight, as was also done during the 2021 General Elections. The Mission notes that the extension enabled additional voters to exercise their right to vote and contributed to broader electoral participation.

While the extension of voting hours facilitated participation, it also created operational challenges. The Mission observed that many polling stations appeared small relative to the number of voters they were required to serve, contributing to lengthy queues and delays in the completion of voting. Observers also reported fatigue among polling officials, difficulties in queue management and delays in the completion of post-voting procedures. In some polling stations located in temporary structures, including tents, limited lighting conditions during the late hours of voting created additional challenges for closing and counting procedures.

Due to the extension of voting hours, Mission observers were only able to directly observe the completion of closing and counting procedures at Gatera Public School Polling Station in Addis Ababa (Constituency 16). In most other polling stations visited, voting remained ongoing when observer teams concluded their observation on election day. The following day, Mission teams returned, where feasible, to observe counting procedures and noted that counting and related electoral processes were still ongoing in a number of polling stations at the time they departed.

Overall, the Mission notes that the extension of voting hours enabled additional voters to participate in the electoral process. However, challenges relating to polling station capacity, queue management, polling staff fatigue and lighting conditions. The extension also limited the Mission’s ability to comprehensively observe closing and counting procedures. A more comprehensive assessment of closing, counting, tabulation and results management processes will therefore be provided in the final report.

4. CROSS CUTTING ISSUES

   4.1 Media Environment

The Mission observed that the media operated within an established legal and regulatory framework and played an important role in providing election-related information and facilitating public debate. The Mission welcomed the introduction of the I-Verify platform by NEBE and its partners as a measure to counter misinformation and promote access to verified electoral information. Overall, the Mission noted that the media contributed to voter information and political engagement.

   4.2 Electoral Security

The Mission observed that electoral security was managed within an established legal and institutional framework involving NEBE, security agencies and other stakeholders. Extensive coordination, risk assessment and preparedness measures were undertaken to support the conduct of peaceful elections, including efforts to facilitate the participation of IDPs, students and members of the security services.

The Mission noted that the elections took place in a challenging security environment, particularly in parts of Oromia, Amhara and Tigray regions, where insecurity affected political activities, electoral preparations and voter participation. As a result, elections were not conducted in Tigray and some constituencies in Oromia and Amhara, while voting in certain areas was postponed to a later date.

Overall, the Mission observed that significant efforts were undertaken to promote a peaceful electoral environment. As counting, tabulation and other post-election processes continue, the Mission encourages all stakeholders to maintain peace, exercise restraint and contribute to the orderly conclusion of the electoral process.

   4.3 Inclusion and Participation

The Mission observed that measures were undertaken by NEBE and other stakeholders to promote the participation of women, youth, PWDs and other underrepresented groups in the electoral process, including targeted voter education and accessible voter information initiatives.

The Mission noted that women, PWDs and other underrepresented groups remain inadequately represented among candidates and within political party leadership structures. The Mission further observed that insecurity and displacement in some areas may have disproportionately affected the participation of vulnerable groups, particularly women, PWDs and IDPs.

Overall, the Mission noted continued efforts to promote inclusive participation while recognising that structural and security-related challenges continue to affect the full and effective participation of some groups in the electoral process.

5.    ELECTORAL JUSTICE

The Mission observed that Ethiopia has established an electoral dispute resolution framework comprising grievance hearing mechanisms at polling station, constituency and regional levels, with further avenues of appeal available through the courts.

Stakeholders generally acknowledged the existence of these mechanisms while noting challenges relating to capacity, consistency and public awareness, particularly in rural and conflict-affected areas.

Overall, the Mission noted that Ethiopia has established a structured framework for the resolution of electoral disputes, the effectiveness of which depends on its timely, consistent and impartial implementation.

6.    COMMENDABLE PRACTICES

The Mission identified a number of commendable practices that contributed positively to the conduct of the elections:

• Professional Conduct of Security Personnel: Security personnel were present in the majority of polling stations observed and generally conducted themselves in a professional manner. Their deployment at an appropriate distance from polling stations contributed to maintaining a secure environment while avoiding undue interference in electoral activities and ensuring that voters were able to cast their ballots free from intimidation.

• High Levels of Procedural Compliance and Commitment of Polling Officials: Polling officials demonstrated a strong understanding of electoral procedures and generally adhered to established opening and voting processes. Verification and authentication measures were consistently applied, contributing to the integrity and credibility of the process. The Mission also observed polling officials carrying out their responsibilities diligently under demanding circumstances, particularly following the extension of voting hours, while providing guidance to voters throughout the day.

• Civic Engagement and Community Participation: The Mission observed a strong sense of civic responsibility and national pride throughout the electoral process. Ethiopian national flags were prominently displayed at polling stations, many of which incorporated local cultural elements. In several locations, citizens provided refreshments and snacks for voters waiting in queues, contributing to a calm and supportive polling environment.

• Responsive Electoral Administration: In polling stations where ballot boxes reached capacity, electoral officials provided additional ballot boxes, allowing voting to continue without significant disruption.

• Presence of Domestic Observers: The participation of domestic observer groups, including women and youth associations, contributed positively to the transparency and credibility of the electoral process.

• Timely Deployment of Electoral Materials: Despite the size of the country and the logistical challenges associated with deploying election materials across diverse and sometimes difficult-to-access locations, the Mission observed that essential election materials were available in all polling stations visited. This reflects effective planning, coordination and logistical preparedness by NEBE and other relevant stakeholders.

7.    CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

(a)  Conclusion

The AUEOM commends the people of Ethiopia, NEBE, political parties, candidates, civil society organisations, the media, security agencies and other stakeholders for their contributions to the conduct of the 1 June 2026 General Elections.

The Mission observed that the elections were conducted within a legal and institutional framework that generally provides a basis for democratic elections and reflects Ethiopia’s commitments under regional and international instruments governing democratic governance and elections.

As electoral activities remain ongoing in some constituencies, including the scheduled voting of IDPs and members of the security services on 8 June 2026, and as counting, tabulation and results management processes continue, the Mission calls upon all stakeholders to exercise restraint, uphold the rule of law, respect the rights and freedoms of all citizens, and utilise established legal and institutional mechanisms for the peaceful resolution of any electoral disputes.

The Mission encourages the Government of Ethiopia, political actors and all relevant stakeholders to promote inclusive and sustained political dialogue as a means of fostering national consensus, strengthening trust among political actors and advancing democratic consolidation. Such dialogue should support the meaningful participation of all citizens and communities in the political life of the country and contribute to the peaceful management of differences within Ethiopia’s constitutional framework.

The Mission further encourages efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, promote political pluralism, enhance inclusive participation and create an enabling environment in which all citizens can freely exercise their democratic rights and contribute to national development.

The AUEOM remains seized of the outstanding electoral activities and reaffirms the African Union’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia in its efforts to consolidate democratic governance, peace, stability and sustainable development.

The Mission will continue to follow developments relating to the completion of the elections and will present its comprehensive assessment, conclusions and recommendations in a final report following the declaration of the final results.

(b)  Recommendations

In the spirit of supporting the continued strengthening of democratic governance and electoral processes in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the AUEOM offers the following recommendations:

Government of Ethiopia

• Continue efforts to improve the security environment and create conditions that enable all eligible citizens to participate fully in electoral processes, including in conflict-affected areas.
• Promote measures aimed at increasing the effective participation and representation of women, youth, PWDs, IDPs and other underrepresented groups in political and electoral processes.
• Continue efforts to create conditions that facilitate the participation of all regions and constituencies in future electoral processes.

National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE)

• Review polling station allocation, voter distribution and operational arrangements to reduce congestion, improve voter flow and enhance the efficiency of polling operations.
• Strengthen measures to ensure the accessibility of polling stations and electoral services for PWDs, older persons and other voters with mobility challenges.
• Review polling station layouts and voting arrangements to strengthen the protection of ballot secrecy.
• Enhance voter education and public awareness programmes, particularly for women, youth, PWDs, IDPs and communities in hard-to-reach areas.
• Continue efforts to strengthen electoral administration, including the effective use of technology, logistical preparedness and measures to address misinformation and disinformation.

Political Parties and Candidates

• Continue to conduct political activities peacefully and utilise established legal and institutional mechanisms for the resolution of electoral disputes.
• Strengthen measures aimed at increasing the participation and representation of women, youth and PWDs within party leadership structures and among electoral candidates.
• Political parties, particularly those contesting at national and regional levels, should strengthen the deployment of trained party agents across polling stations to enhance transparency, improve oversight of electoral procedures and contribute to a more competitive electoral environment.

Media

• Continue to provide balanced, accurate and professional coverage of political and electoral developments and strengthen efforts to counter misinformation and disinformation.

Civil Society Organisations and Development Partners

• Continue supporting civic and voter education, electoral inclusion and initiatives that promote democratic participation, information integrity and constructive dialogue among electoral stakeholders.

COMMENTS