Opposition Parties Demand Reforms for Credible Elections in Ethiopia
By Pam Chuol Joack, Gambella Vision Reporter
By Pam Chuol Joack, Gambella Vision Reporter
Four Opposition Parties Demands Election Reforms
Ahead of Ethiopia’s 7th national election, four_opposition_parties have jointly called for essential political and security reforms, warning that current conditions jeopardize the election’s credibility.
In a statement released on May 13, the All Ethiopia Unity Party, Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Party (EPRP), Enat Party, and Amhara Ghionians Movement urged the government to ensure fair media access, allow civic institutions to operate freely, and release political prisoners detained due to their views and identities.
The parties also expressed concerns regarding changes within the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), noting that the process of replacing board members has begun. While acknowledging the challenges faced by the current board, they highlighted its experience from conducting previous elections and cautioned that new appointees may lack the necessary expertise.
They called for adherence to Article 5 of Proclamation No. 33/20, which mandates consultation with political parties during such replacements. The statement emphasized the need for the ruling party to engage in genuine dialogue, asserting that the upcoming election is crucial for resolving the country’s complex issues.
