Ethiopia Election Body Bars Voting in 46 Constituencies, Confirms Candidate Disputes Ahead of Polls

May 27, 2026

Mintesinot Nigussie

Voting will not take place in 46 constituencies across two regional states in Ethiopia, the country’s electoral authority has confirmed, as it outlined key adjustments to the political and electoral landscape ahead of the seventh general election.

The National Election Board of Ethiopia said the affected areas include eight constituencies in the Amhara region and 38 in Tigray.

In Amhara, the constituencies identified include South Gonder, West Gonder, Ambassel and Degadamot, among others, where the board said electoral activities would not proceed.

The board also confirmed that 42 political parties will contest the election, following the exclusion of six parties from participation.

Disputes also emerged over candidate eligibility figures, with the board stating that 80 candidates from nine parties were removed for failing to meet requirements within the deadline set for compliance.

The Ethiopian Social Democratic Party contested the figure, saying 309 of its candidates had been removed after certification and court rulings.