In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's National Electoral Board has discussed the security situation in areas slated for upcoming elections with political parties. The board reported efforts to urge government bodies to address identified issues from its visits and observations. The parties assured the formation of a monitoring committee involving various stakeholders.
Addis Ababa, March 3, 2018 (Fana Media Corporation) – Ethiopia's National Electoral Board has engaged in discussions with political parties regarding the security conditions in regions designated for the seventh general elections.
During the meeting, board representative Melat Werku Haylu stated that the board has undertaken efforts to prompt government institutions to rectify issues pertaining to the areas it has inspected and those requiring intervention based on observations. This initiative aims to resolve challenges encountered during the board's assessments.
The political parties have committed to establishing a monitoring and evaluation committee for the regions they have declared to the board, comprising representatives from political parties, civil society organizations, and other entities. This committee is intended to oversee the electoral process.
Additionally, explanations were provided concerning voter registration cancellations in certain areas, obstructions faced by election officials in their duties, and the status of political alliances. Earlier gatherings involved regional chief administrators, city administration mayors, directors of federal and regional security institutions, as well as representatives from political parties and civil society organizations, where they conducted discussions sharing information on green, yellow, and red security statuses at the board.
This dialogue underscores efforts to facilitate a smooth electoral process and highlights the collaborative measures being taken by stakeholders to address prevailing conditions.