Date set for Abiy’s first electoral test

Ethiopia’s electoral commission has agreed on a date for elections this year in what will be the first test for reformist Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

The commission convened early this morning and has released a draft schedule that also includes suggestions surrounding voter registration.

Currently, the next election will be held on 16 August, and voters will be eligible to register from 7 April.

A number of politicians have called for the election to be postponed until next year, but Prime Minister Abiy has insisted they must go ahead as planned, in what he says will be a crucial step towards the country’s transition to full democracy.

Traditionally, elections are held every five years in the month of May.

The ruling EPRDF has continually held office since 1991, however Abiy has stated his desire to enter the next election cycle at the helm of a new party, made from several elements within the governing coalition.

Photo credit: Reuters