Ethiopian scholars from political science and public administration fields have stressed that free, fair and democratic elections are essential for national peace and robust economic development.
Mulalem Hailemariam, a political science lecturer at Wachemo University, explained that elections based on public consent bring economic and social progress.
Dr Fiqadu Tolosa from Jimma University added that democratic polls play a vital role in securing shared national growth and development.
Hussman Qasim, a civic and ethics instructor, noted that peaceful power transfers after elections demonstrate true democracy. The scholars urged citizens to use their votes in the seventh general election to strengthen fair governance and lay foundations for national advancement.