Addis Ababa, June 1, 2026 — Chief Administrators of the Amhara, Oromia, and Somali regional states cast their ballots early this morning as voting commenced for Ethiopia’s 7th General Election.

Amhara Region Chief Administrator Arega Kebede voted at the Hidassie Polling Station in the Bahir Dar constituency, while residents of the city continue to vote across the 164 polling stations.

In the Oromia Region, Chief Administrator Shimelis Abdisa exercised his democratic right at the Abiyot Square public gathering polling station within the Dendi 2 constituency in Ginchi town.

Concurrently, Somali Regional State Chief Administrator Mustafe Mohammed cast his ballot at the Garado Building polling station in Degehabur town, where local residents arrived early to select candidates who will represent them for the next five years.

Citizens across these three populous states have turned out in massive numbers since dawn. In Bahir Dar, the process is progressing smoothly with an orderly and high-spirited atmosphere.

In Ginchi town and across wider Oromia, a profound sense of civic enthusiasm has been observed as citizens stand in long queues to cast their votes.

Similarly, in Degehabur, the momentum remains vibrant, with voters actively participating to shape their governance for the coming term.

This immense regional participation aligns with a broader nationwide mobilization. Polling stations across the country opened promptly at 6:00 AM, with more than 54 million registered voters expected to exercise their constitutional rights throughout the day.

This election represents a crucial milestone in deepening Ethiopia’s democratic landscape and strengthening its institutional foundations.

The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has deployed extensive logistics across the country to ensure an inclusive, transparent, and credible voting process.

The representatives elected today will hold office for a five-year term, bearing the responsibility of guiding the nation's policy and governance framework.

International and local observers note that the peaceful, large-scale turnout witnessed underscores a growing public commitment to robust civic engagement and long-term national stability.  ENA