Voting began this morning across Ethiopia as citizens headed to polling stations for the country’s 7th General Election, with regional and continental observer missions closely monitoring the process.

The African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM), led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, observed the opening procedures at a polling station, assessing the readiness of election officials and the conduct of voting. 

Speaking during the visit, he emphasized that elections remain a cornerstone of democratic governance across Africa, highlighting citizens’ right to choose their leaders and the importance of inclusion and representation.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) mission also observed the opening process, noting Ethiopia’s continental importance and praising the peaceful atmosphere and active participation of voters, including women, as a positive sign for the democratic process.

Both missions are expected to continue monitoring voting, counting, and tabulation throughout Election Day before releasing their preliminary findings.