The Oromo Federalist Congress will field candidates only in Addis Ababa in the upcoming national elections, citing insecurity in Oromia and what it describes as a narrowing political environment.

Professor Merera Gudina, the party’s first deputy chairman, told the BBC that conditions in the region were not suitable for competitive campaigning. He said the OFC could not operate in areas where “militants operating in Oromia” would influence or obstruct political activity.

According to Merera, the party chose to compete in the capital to avoid disqualification, as election law removes parties that fail to contest two consecutive polls. He said the OFC and several other political organisations have repeatedly urged the government and the National Election Board of Ethiopia to ensure conditions for credible elections, but he argued that “not much has improved.”

Merera added that an enabling political environment is a prerequisite for free and fair elections, and he believes his party does not have that. He also questioned the independence of the Election Board, saying it was not formed through consensus with opposition parties.