Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has issued a detailed pre-election report for Ethiopia’s June 1, 2026, general elections.

In a statement on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, Uhuru, who led the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) to observe the 7th General Elections, explained that the elections constituted Ethiopia’s second electoral cycle

“The Mission observed that the 1 June 2026 General Elections constitute Ethiopia’s second electoral cycle under the reforms introduced following the country’s political transition in 2018,” read the report in part.

According to the report, the elections reflected Ethiopia’s commitment to constitutional governance and democratic principles as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and relevant regional and international instruments.

Uhuru further stated that the elections took place within a complex political environment characterised by ongoing political, institutional and governance reforms, as well as efforts to advance national dialogue and democratic consolidation.

Meanwhile, the Mission further observed that the elections were conducted against a backdrop of persistent security challenges in parts of the country, particularly in the Tigray, Amhara and Oromia regions.

At the same time, stakeholders indicated that insecurity affected political activities, campaign operations and voter participation in some areas.

Hence, the Mission noted that the Tigray Region did not participate in the 2021 or 2026 electoral processes, while efforts continue towards creating conditions conducive to its future participation in national electoral processes.

Legal Framework

According to the report, the Mission noted that the 1 June 2026 General Elections were conducted within a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework that provides the basis for democratic elections and guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms necessary for political participation, including the rights to vote, be elected, and participate in public affairs.

The Mission further observed that recent reforms introduced measures aimed at strengthening electoral administration, enhancing electoral dispute resolution mechanisms, promoting the participation of women, youth and persons with disabilities, and supporting the use of technology in the electoral process.

Overall, the Mission assessed the legal and institutional framework as broadly adequate for the conduct of democratic elections and generally consistent with Ethiopia’s constitutional principles and regional and international commitments.

Stakeholders consulted by the Mission generally acknowledged the adequacy of the framework while noting the importance of its consistent implementation throughout the electoral process.