Participating in Ethiopian elections requires prior voter registration as a prerequisite. Under Proclamation No. 1162/2011, eligible individuals are Ethiopian citizens aged 18 or older who have resided in the electoral district for at least six months. However, those with mental illnesses impairing judgment, under court-ordered punishments, or legally deprived of voting rights cannot register.
The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia conducts voter registration only within the designated time frame. Registration occurs at polling stations in the voter's kebele of residence, though mobile centers can be established in remote areas if needed. Individuals register only once per polling station.
Required documents prove residency, such as a kebele identification, passport, or alternatives like a birth certificate, residence attestation, or refugee card. Without documents, registration is possible through witnesses or public guarantors confirming residency. Those unable to register personally may do so via representatives.
Registrations are processed daily, verified by registrars and public witnesses. Once completed, the voter list is posted for public viewing for 10 consecutive days. Appeals against inclusions or exclusions go to the polling station's appeal committee, with decisions governed by law. Unregistered voters cannot participate on election day.
