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The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) engaged with political party and media leaders to gather feedback on the proposed amendments to the draft Proclamation, "Ethiopian Electoral, Political Parties Registration and Electoral Code of Conduct No. 1 

The National Election Board of Ethiopia gathered valuable input on proposed amendments to the Ethiopian Electoral, Political Parties Registration and Electoral Code of Conduct No. 1162/2019 through discussions with political party and media leaders during two rounds of a two-day program. This initiative was aimed at amending the proclamation used for the last 6 years.

The need for the amendment of the Ethiopian Electoral, Political Parties Registration and Electoral Code of Conduct No. 1162/2019 emanates from challenges and lessons learned during the Sixth National Election; on the outcomes of the inter-party dialogue discussions among political parties on selected eight major themes and 50 sub-themes; final decisions on election disputes issued by the courts and the desire to improve the quality of election operations by incorporating international best practices and new election technologies.

Ms. Melatwork Hailu, Chairperson of NEBE, in her opening speech highlighted that the amendment process is designed to foster transparency, trust, and cooperation among all stakeholders in the electoral process. She also emphasized that these changes are also in response to the evolving political environment, strengthen political party capacities, increased voter awareness of their rights, and to ensure the continued development of Ethiopia's electoral system.

The legal amendment draft was presented by the Board’s Legal Department, which include clarifications of ambiguous provisions, the removal of unnecessary articles that were hindering implementation, and the introduction of new provisions in line with international standards. The revisions aim to streamline electoral procedures and enhance efficiency.

Ms. Melatwork expressed her gratitude to the Board’s Legal Department for their unwavering effort in revising the draft Ethiopian Electoral, Political Parties Registration and Electoral Code of Conduct No. 1162/2019. She also extended her thanks to the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) for their professional and financial support throughout the process.

In the coming days, NEBE will continue gathering feedback from civil society organizations, government officials, and other relevant stakeholders to broad consultation and input in the amendment process.