Salsay Weyane Tigray Criticizes NEBE Over Election Plans

— The political party Salsay Weyane Tigray has issued a press release to day January 26, 2026, strongly criticizing the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) for moving forward with elections in the region despite what it describes as “unfulfilled essential conditions” for a credible electoral process.

According to the statement, the party argues that the security situation in Tigray remains “unconducive,” pointing to the absence of a functional civil administration capable of facilitating free and fair elections. The party emphasized that without such structures, the integrity of the electoral process cannot be guaranteed.

The press release further highlights that large portions of Tigray are still under the control of what the party calls “illegal authorities.” As a result, millions of displaced residents are unable to exercise their right to vote. This, the party contends, amounts to a denial of the fundamental right to self-determination for those affected.

Salsay Weyane Tigray also stressed that NEBE’s responsibility extends beyond the act of ballot casting. The party insists that the electoral board must ensure all necessary conditions for free, fair, and inclusive elections are in place before proceeding.

In its conclusion, the party reiterated its position that elections in Tigray must be treated differently, with special consideration given to the region’s ongoing challenges. “These challenges directly constitute the prerequisites for free and fair elections,” the statement read.