NEBE Finalizes Two-Day Stakeholder Consultation on Security Issues for the 7th General Election

The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), on February 3, 2026, finalized a two-day stakeholder consultation on security issues related to the constituencies where the 7th general election will be conducted. On the first day of the consultation, NEBE hosted national political parties and civil society organizations (CSOs), along with the Presidents of Regional States, Mayors of City Administrations, and senior officials from security institutions. On the second day, discussions included regional political parties and CSOs.

During the consultation, Biruk Wondwossen, head of the Operations Department of NEBE, briefed participants on the details of the current peace and security reports from the constituencies. These reports were collected from regional states and security institutions and categorized as Green (no security concern), Yellow (a minor security concern), or Red (a major security concern). Following the briefing, all stakeholders shared their perceptions and concerns.

In her closing remarks, Melatwork Hailu, chairperson of NEBE, appreciated the participation of all stakeholders and reminded them that continuous meetings on peace and security, election operations, and related issues will be organized. She also stressed that a credible, free, peaceful, and democratic election is not an outcome achieved solely through the efforts of NEBE, but through the collective efforts of all respective stakeholders.