Over the past few years, the people of Ethiopia have walked through challenging times, carrying a shared longing for peace, stability, and dignity. Today, as we stand on the threshold of the national election, the power to shape the next chapter of our history returns entirely to where it belongs: into the hands of the ordinary citizen.
With more than 50 million citizens registered to vote, this election is not just a routine political exercise. It is a profound declaration of our collective resilience. It is an opportunity to prove that the future of this great nation will be written by the ink on our thumbs, not by the alignment of external interests or the clamor of divisive rhetoric.
To ensure that our collective voice truly matters, we must protect the integrity of this election from two major disruptions:
First, we must reject the noise of internal division. In the heat of campaigns, it is easy for radical narratives to use fear or ethnic grievances to pull us apart. But true strength lies in our ability to engage in peaceful dialogue. A fair election requires us to look beyond immediate friction and focus on the common ground we all share—the desire for a prosperous, safe, and unified Ethiopia. When you step into the polling station, remember that you are voting for a future where your children can thrive in peace.
Second, we must guard our sovereignty against external agendas. While the world watches Ethiopia, we must remain clear-headed. Outside commentary, foreign media narratives, and geopolitical pressures often view our complex realities through a narrow lens. They do not live our daily struggles, and they will not bear the consequences of our choices. The integrity of our vote means that our political path must be defined domestically, driven by the real needs of our local communities, and managed by our own institutions.
A truly fair and just election does not just depend on the rules written on paper or the technology at the polling stations; it relies on the conscience and responsibility of every voter.
Let us stand patient in the queues, respect our neighbors’ differing opinions, and reject any form of provocation or intimidation. By casting our ballots peacefully and demanding transparency at every step, we send a powerful message to the world: Ethiopia’s destiny belongs solely to Ethiopians.
