NEBE Hails Successful Conclusion of Historic Election Debates

Addis ababa: The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has officially concluded the nationwide political parties' debate program and announced the commencement of the mandatory 'Period of Silence' ahead of Ethiopia's 7th General Election scheduled for Monday, June 1, 2026.According to Ethiopian News Agency, the debate series provided political parties with a vital platform to present their policies, programs, and visions to the public, while also helping voters make informed electoral decisions.The Board stated that the debates played a significant role in raising public awareness by giving citizens clearer insight into the agendas and priorities of competing political parties.Speaking at the closing ceremony today, NEBE Chairperson Melatwork Hailu described the debate initiative as historic and instrumental in strengthening voter awareness and democratic participation. 'The debate program created an opportunity for voters to evaluate political parties based on their policies and programs and make informed choices,' she said.Deputy Chairperson Tesfaye Neway also praised the process, describing it as inclusive, participatory, and a potential model for future elections. He noted that it was the first national debate program organized directly by the Election Board.According to NEBE, 33 political parties participated in debates covering 19 major national issues, moderated by independent experts.Following the conclusion of the debates, the Board officially launched the 'Period of Silence,' a four-day pre-election phase during which all forms of election campaigning are prohibited under the electoral directive.During this period, political parties, candidates, and their supporters are barred from conducting campaign activities, holding public events, or giving media interviews related to the election.NEBE stated that the measure is intended to provide voters with adequate time to reflect on the campaigns and prepare to cast their ballots without political pressure.More than 50.5 million Ethiopia ns have registered to vote in the upcoming election, making it the largest voter registration exercise in the country's history and one of Africa's biggest democratic exercises.