Ethiopia’s Ministry of Peace urged political parties to commit to peaceful participation ahead of the 2026 general election. The appeal was made during a consultative forum with the Political Parties Joint Council, focusing on responsible political conduct. Officials said elections are central to national unity, democratic transition, and long-term stability. Preparations include digital voter registration and training for parties to support peaceful and credible electoral processes nationwide.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for intellectual vision, collaboration, and self-mastery as key pillars of Ethiopia’s national development. Speaking at Addis Ababa University’s 75th anniversary, he urged scholars to play a central role in shaping unity, leadership, and institutional strength. Abiy said national progress requires shared purpose, democratic values, and cooperation among government, academia, and society to address governance challenges and adapt to global change.

Taye Atske-Selassie issued a New Year 2026 message to Ethiopia’s international partners and the global community, calling for peace, prosperity, and closer political cooperation. The message reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to constructive diplomatic engagement and dialogue with other nations. Separately, Abiy Ahmed also shared New Year remarks, highlighting unity, mutual responsibility, and continued collaboration between Ethiopia and its global partners.

Ethiopia launched digital platforms to modernize voter and candidate registration ahead of the 2026 general election. The National Election Board introduced mobile and web-based systems to support registration, election management, and data accuracy. Officials said the technology aims to improve transparency, efficiency, and public trust while reducing administrative barriers. Candidate registration will be fully digital, while voter registration will combine technological and traditional methods nationwide.

Ethiopia and Oman signed a memorandum of understanding and held their first political consultation in Addis Ababa, marking a step toward closer diplomatic relations. Officials reviewed bilateral ties and discussed cooperation on regional security, multilateral affairs, and political coordination. The talks also addressed developments in the Horn of Africa and the Gulf region, with both sides agreeing to maintain regular consultations to strengthen dialogue and mutual understanding.

Abiy Ahmed and Emmanuel Macron held a New Year phone conversation to review existing and future areas of cooperation between Ethiopia and France. The leaders exchanged greetings and discussed strengthening bilateral relations across diplomatic and strategic areas. They also agreed to maintain regular communication on regional and global issues of mutual interest, underscoring continued dialogue and coordination between the two governments.