Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — June 1, 2026 | Horn News Hub
Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie cast her ballot early Monday morning at the General Jagama Kello Memorial Health Center polling station in Woreda 08 of Nifas Silk Lafto Sub-City, joining millions of Ethiopians participating in the country’s seventh general election.
Speaking to journalists after voting, the mayor described the electoral process as democratic, free, and fair, stating that voting was proceeding peacefully across the capital.
According to Adanech, residents began arriving at polling stations as early as 3:00 a.m., demonstrating what she characterized as a high level of public enthusiasm and commitment to exercising their constitutional rights. She said reports reaching city authorities indicated that voters throughout Addis Ababa were casting their ballots freely, peacefully, and without undue influence.
“The information we are receiving from across the city shows that citizens are participating in the election calmly and independently,” she said.
The mayor emphasized that elections remain the most legitimate and reliable mechanism for establishing a government that reflects the will of the people. She noted that Ethiopians are directly choosing their leaders through the ballot box, describing the process as an important milestone in the country’s democratic development.
“This is a historic chapter that can help move Ethiopia toward lasting peace and sustainable development,” Adanech said.
She also urged citizens who have not yet voted to take part in the election, stressing that voting is both a democratic right and a civic responsibility.
In her remarks, the mayor underscored the significance of voter participation, arguing that abstaining from voting amounts to relinquishing an individual’s ability to influence public affairs and political leadership.
“Failing to use a voter card means surrendering the right to make one’s voice heard and to participate in shaping the future of the country,” she said.
Voting is underway across Ethiopia as citizens elect representatives in what authorities have described as one of the largest democratic exercises on the African continent. Election officials expect millions of registered voters to participate throughout the day.
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