News - Prosperity Party Dominates Ethiopian Elections

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Prosperity Party has emerged victorious with a substantial majority in the country's recent general election, solidifying its hold on the 547-seat House of Peoples' Representatives. The Prosperity Party secured 438 seats according to results disclosed by the National Election Board, effectively maintaining its influence amidst a field of 42 political parties, only 17 of which gained parliamentary representation. The election, held across most of Ethiopia, engaged over 50 million registered voters, achieving an impressive turnout of approximately 94%, as reported by the electoral board. However, the northern region of Tigray was notably excluded from the voting process due to ongoing unrest following a two-year conflict ending in 2022 between federal forces and the Tigray People's Liberation Front. Additionally, several locations in Oromia and Amhara regions faced election disruptions with 143 polling stations not operational due to security concerns, as per local reports. Since taking office in 2018 amid transformative reforms within the previous ruling coalition, Abiy has initiated significant political and economic changes, although his term has also been marred by extended conflicts in Ethiopia's north, particularly the Tigray crisis, and continuous unrest in parts of Oromia and Amhara. Critics, including opposition groups like the Oromo Federalist Congress, Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice, and the National Movement of Amhara, have condemned the electoral process, reporting harassment, restricted campaign freedoms, and exclusion of vital political figures, declaring the election fell short of fair standards. The African Union Election Observation Mission commented that election day proceeded with general calm and organizational integrity at observed locations. Leading the AU mission, former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta acknowledged Ethiopia's resilience in opposing colonial impositions, maintaining unity and autonomy. Ethiopia functions as a parliamentary republic, so the parliament's configuration will guide the forming of the upcoming government and the prime minister's election. Following the results' release, the Prosperity Party conveyed appreciation to the populace for participating in a 'peaceful, credible, and historic electoral procedure' and vowed to enhance economic inclusivity, livelihoods, and job opportunities.