Monday, June 21, 2021

Ethiopians Go To The Polls Today

 

The Guardian: Ethiopians cast ballots in delayed election against backdrop of Tigray conflict  

Frontrunner Abiy Ahmed needs popular mandate to bolster his grip on power amid growing criticism 

Voters have begun casting their ballots in delayed elections in Ethiopia that supporters of the prime minister, Abiy Ahmed, say are proof of his commitment to democracy and critics warn could be the launchpad for consolidation of an increasingly authoritarian rule. 

The national and regional polls take place against a background of a gruelling military conflict in the northern Tigray region, the looming prospect of a famine, rising ethnic violence and deep economic problems. 

Campaigning has been short. Abiy, in power since 2018, told a crowd of tens of thousands of supporters last week at his only rally that Ethiopia would show a sceptical world that he could unite the fractious country.  

Read more ....  

WNU Editor: Here is an easy prediction. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is on the course to be re-elected. 

More News On Ethiopia's General Elections  

Ethiopia votes in greatest electoral test yet for PM Abiy -- AP

Voting underway in Ethiopia amid conflict and a raging humanitarian crisis -- CNN  

Ethiopia elections 2021: Abiy Ahmed faces first vote amid conflict -- BBC  

Amid a bloody war and political instability, Ethiopians are heading to the polls -- SBS  

Ethiopians vote in elections seen as test for PM Abiy Ahmed -- The Al Jazeera  

Ethiopians go to the polls, but election may not resolve the country’s crisis -- East African

No comments: