Residents Cite Insecurity as Major Obstacle to Participation in Ethiopia’s 7th General Election.

Residents across several zones in the Oromia region told Addis Standard that ongoing insecurity is preventing them from taking part in the 7th general elections. Many said that “security problems have repeatedly occurred in their areas,” making voter registration unsafe.

Communities in North Shewa and Horo Guduru Wollega zones expressed deep concern about the upcoming May elections, noting that they are “refraining from participating in the registration process” due to persistent instability.

A resident of Koticho Kebele in Abe Dongoro Woreda, Horo Guduru Wollega Zone—who requested anonymity—said the security situation has deteriorated as the election approaches. “There is no conducive environment for voter registration. The current situation is unstable, and participating in voter registration is risky. “We’re struggling just to stay alive. Talking about voting is almost meaningless when our lives are at risk.” the resident told Addis Standard.

Abe Dongoro Woreda is among the areas frequently affected by violence. Residents reported that four people were killed and more than 180 houses were burned in a recent attack allegedly carried out by “Amhara Fano militants.” The incident reportedly took place on 1 March 2026 across four kebeles of Abe Dongoro. Locals say many families are now fleeing their villages due to fear of further attacks.

Residents of Dera Woreda in the North Shewa Zone echoed similar concerns. They said the activities of armed groups, the constant sound of gunfire, and widespread fear in the community have become major obstacles to voter registration. Many are reportedly afraid to approach polling stations to register or vote.

Some residents said they have repeatedly raised their concerns with the federal government. They argue that the government’s failure to ensure citizens’ safety has worsened the crisis.

“Our people are in danger at a time when the government is supposedly preparing for elections. There are constant gunshots, and armed groups move freely in the area. But the government has not taken any clear steps to rectify this situation. Under such conditions, it is difficult to say the elections will be free and fair,” one resident said, adding that the government’s failure to prioritize public peace raises serious questions about the state of the country’s democracy.

He emphasized that a free and fair electoral process is impossible without peace and urged the government and security forces to find a lasting solution for civilians.

Meanwhile, the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) is conducting the 7th general election from 1 March to 1 April 2026. As of 18 March 2026, NEBE reported that 18,556,337 voters had registered through manual and digital systems. Of these, 10,133,639 are male and 8,422,698 are female.