Election officials have warned against unlawful practices during ongoing voter registration, citing reports of coercion and intimidation, and cautioning they may suspend voting in affected areas if violations persist.
In a statement issued today April 2, 2026, the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) said it is carrying out a range of pre-election activities to ensure the seventh general election is “free, fair, credible and peaceful,” including the ongoing voter registration process being conducted in accordance with its schedule.
However, the Board disclosed that it has received reports indicating the occurrence of illegal practices during this critical phase. These include door-to-door campaigns pressuring citizens to obtain voter cards, as well as attempts to link voter registration with access to public services and even salary deductions.
“The Board has observed reports suggesting the implementation of unlawful acts, ranging from house-to-house mobilization urging citizens to collect voter cards, to exerting pressure by associating voter registration with public services and salary deductions,” the statement reads.
The Board clarified that, under the law, voter education can only be conducted by the Board itself, or by civil society organizations and educational institutions authorized by it. Separately, political parties registered to contest in the election are permitted to carry out campaign activities.
Based on the complaints it has received, NEBE said it has formally notified all regional and city administrations to ensure that officials at all levels refrain from engaging in door-to-door mobilization and from exerting undue pressure that effectively makes voter registration mandatory.
“Any entity cannot go door-to-door in violation of the law and instruct citizens to register, nor can institutions compel employees to register as voters,” the Board stated. “Threatening employees by saying ‘your salary will be cut if you do not take a voter card’ is an illegal act, and the Board strongly condemns it.”
NEBE further warned that it is closely monitoring the situation and will publicly expose institutions and actors found to be involved in such practices. It added that failure to take corrective measures could lead to more serious action, including identifying specific constituencies and polling stations where such activities occur and suspending voting in those areas.
The Board emphasized that voting is a constitutional right of citizens and that participation in voter registration must be based solely on individual consent and personal decision. It reiterated that registration is not mandatory and that failure to register does not result in salary deductions.
In its concluding remarks, NEBE called on citizens to cooperate by reporting any individuals or institutions that attempt to undermine this fundamental right, noting that such information is critical for the legal measures it intends to take.
