Voting Begins in Ethiopia as Party Seeks Majority

Voting began Monday in Ethiopia for parliamentary seats, with the ruling party positioned to secure most of the 547 constituencies. The National Election Board of Ethiopia said polling will not occur in 46 constituencies across Amhara and Tigray, citing clashes between militia groups and security forces as well as unresolved political tensions.

Background to the Vote The board added that eight districts in north-western Amhara face "unfavourable conditions" and that 38 districts in Tigray remain affected by friction between the federal government and the Tigray People's Liberation Front. Where conditions prevent voting on June 1, the board stated supplementary dates will be scheduled later.

Forty-seven parties are registered, fielding nearly 11,000 candidates, yet the ruling party faces no opponents in 64 constituencies. The largest opposition group is contesting fewer than 60 percent of seats and currently holds four seats from the previous parliament.

“The elections in Ethiopia will be a purely formal affair that lends the government electoral legitimacy. There is no way to change or challenge the government through the elections." — Kjetil Tronvoll, peace and conflict researcher, Oslo New University College. Voter turnout concerns have surfaced, with residents in Addis Ababa and Oromia expressing doubts that individual ballots will alter political outcomes.”

Many citizens report focusing on inflation, employment, and local security rather than campaign platforms. Past parliamentary elections since 1991 have produced results ranging from 90 to 100 percent for the winning party, often accompanied by fraud allegations. The board recorded millions of registered voters ahead of this round.