Political Parties Sign Code of Conduct as NEBE Officially Launches Election Symbols

The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) organized an event at the end of the past week where political parties participating in the 7th General Election signed the Election Code of Conduct. Melatwork Hailu, Chairperson of NEBE, delivered the opening remarks in the presence of political parties, civil society organizations, and media, during which 48 contesting parties’ election symbols were launched.

In her remarks, Melatwork briefed participants on what NEBE has been executing so far in its pre-election activities. While expressing the significance of the Code of Conduct, she emphasized that the free, peaceful, and fair conduct of the election depends on each political party fulfilling its responsibilities in accordance with the law. She added that the effectiveness of the election will be ensured by the collective efforts of all stakeholders, not just NEBE.

Following the political parties' signing of the Code of Conduct, it is known that election campaigns and a political parties’ debate (the NEBE is working to facilitate a debate with a new approach) will proceed. In relation to this, Melat stressed that the media are expected to provide equal opportunities for all parties to promote their policies and programs to the general public.

All political parties' symbols and what they represent were officially presented to the participants following the opening remarks. Subsequently, Tesfaye Niwai, Deputy Chairperson of the NEBE, outlined the need for and details of the Code of Conduct for the participants. Political parties then signed the directive, which is prepared in seven chapters and 30 articles, and the NEBE consulted them prior to the signing day.