The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has issued a warning to the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), urging vigilance to avoid repeating the irregularities observed during the 2021 general elections.

In a statement released yesterday following consultations with NEBE regarding the upcoming elections and human rights oversight, the EHRC emphasized the importance of addressing past shortcomings. While the Commission did not elaborate on specific issues during the discussion, it referenced its 2021 report, which documented various concerns.

The report highlighted human rights violations that occurred in the lead-up to the 2021 elections, as well as on election day and in the immediate aftermath. These included incidents at several polling stations monitored by the Commission.

In its report released during the 2021 general election, the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) documented a series of human rights violations and procedural shortcomings. These included incidents of loss of life and physical harm, arbitrary detention, voter intimidation, harassment of election observers and journalists, limited accessibility for persons with disabilities, and barriers to participation for internally displaced persons.

The Commission had previously called on all stakeholders to take proactive steps to safeguard its legal mandate for human rights monitoring. This included unhindered access to polling stations and the ability to inspect detention facilities without prior notice.

Although these irregularities were detailed in earlier reports, the EHRC chose not to reiterate them in its latest statement following recent discussions with NEBE. Instead, it underscored the need to prevent similar violations during the upcoming 7th national elections, drawing attention to issues observed during the 6th round of general elections, by-elections, and repeat elections.

In response, the National Election Board announced the implementation of a geographic information system (GIS) to identify and map polling stations, enhancing accessibility for observers. Additionally, the Board has expanded its infrastructure by establishing eight new offices, bringing the total to 22 nationwide.

Berhanu Adelo, Chief Commissioner of NEBE, expressed optimism about the Board’s preparations and its collaborative efforts with political parties and civil society organizations. He also called on the government to address budgetary and logistical challenges—particularly shortages of funding and vehicles—to ensure the smooth conduct of the upcoming elections.