BY KFLEEYESUS ABEBE
Having democratically-elected government had been the unfulfilled ambition of Ethiopian generations for centuries. Sadly, political powers in the country had been growing out of the barrel of gun. This trend already took unimaginable toll on the country; the results of which were poverty and chaos.
Some of the golden opportunities that came on the heel of changes at different times were cut short mainly due to tyranny and dictatorial rule. For instance, Ethiopia held five consecutive polls on EPRDF’s watch. But, these elections had been nothing short of a bogus display of acts. The issue of credibility and fairness were at stake. Vote rigging and cheating had been the dominant face of the elections.
The polls didn’t provide the much-needed idea pluralism which the country longed for long. This was ascribable to government crackdown against opponents, lack of democratic culture and independent democratic institutions and absence of strong contesting political parties.
The previous election failed not only for their lack of fairness and credibility as the ruling party won 99.4% in 2015, there were not also strong opponents. Influential politicians were either in exile, or in prison. The remaining politicians boycotted the election at the last minute due to the pressure mounting from the government. In addition to this, there wasn’t free media. Journalists were being persecuted. Whenever election comes journalists and prominent activists used to be sent to prison. Thus, this election is different whoever wins at the end. There will at least be a diversity of ideas.
The tradition however came to an end last week with the country holding a free, fair and peaceful election what many described it as historic. In fact, the work to make the 6th general poll was started on the heels of the coming of Abiy as prime minister, who pledged wide democratic and political landscapes.
With backlogs of challenges inheriting from the previous administration, Abiy Ahmed’s administration took various reforms measures including making the electoral board and justice system independent institutions. The recently held 6th general election could be taken as a milestone achievement Ethiopia’s nascent democracy in this regard. Well they say, the means justify the end!
The pre-election process showed Ethiopia’s readiness for inclusive and participatory democracy. Parties have been engaged in every step of the way, revision of laws and regulations were put in place and security was ensured. The parties also signed agreement to cooperate for peace and democratic election. During the campaigning, parties have had enough time and mean to promote their ideas. There were placards of parties in the capital city and other parts of the country with their picture candidate and catchphrases.
They were freely campaigning in the streets without restrictions. Journalists were also expressing their opinions openly and freely. People have also got the chance to discuss the fate of their country freely. The election debate was rather different as it is broadcasted by different televisions and radios. Parties were able to promote their polices ranging from education to system of governance. Hence, they confirmed as the debate was fair and participatory.
As a result, election 2021 saw unprecedented turnout. People voted against different challenges with some voters waited till the evening to cast their ballot. This incidence attracted wide local and foreign media coverage. Some foreign media compared the poll with the much contested 2005 election.
If we see the composition of the contestants, this election brought contestants from different parties and background. The return of exiled parties and emergence of new parties makes the election more anticipated about 125 independent contestants in the election have also thrown their hat in to the ring. So, voters have had different choices to vote for.
The participation of these parties or independent candidates in the election provides diversity of ideas this big and diverse country deserves. No matter who gets what and where in the election; Ethiopia most importantly asserts its readiness for multiparty system. Ethiopia is witnessing multiparty election after 16 years.
At the eve of the election, Prime Minister Abiy expected this and showed readiness by saying: “We want to maintain our commitment for fair, free and credible election in the balloting day too. We will totally accept parties and individuals that the board declares as winners. We don’t steal votes like before. We are ready to accept whoever wins in the election. If there is a platform to work in collaboration, we are ready to cooperate more than ever. If we sustain this culture, there will be a very good composition in legislative body. Parties will have significant role and inputs in drafting of various laws, strategies and policies.”
The ruling party also vowed to appreciate and extend invitation to work in partnership. “We understand there are some individuals who are patriotic and with skills. So, we want to include these people even if they lost in the election. The inclusion of these people in the government will strengthen the country and help realize our mission which is peace and prosperity.”
The advent of different parties and individuals to parliamentary seat or government posts not only acknowledges the diversity of Ethiopia, it could be taken as a step forward for the country to narrow existing political differences. Ultimately, this permits peaceful coexistence of different interests, convictions and life styles.
Editor’s Note: The views entertained in this article do not necessarily reflect the stance of The Ethiopian Herald
The Ethiopian Herald June 29/2021
