Will democracy in Ethiopia be established?

Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed rose to power in 2018, promising a break from its authoritarian past.

The nation’s first multiparty election in 16 years was held on Monday after being delayed twice due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The vote is Abiy’s first test at the ballot since his appointment.

His governing Prosperity Party has fielded the most candidates – raising his chances of remaining on the job.

But some opposition groups have boycotted the vote in protest against the jailing of their leaders.

And other regions are not taking part for logistical or security reasons.

So, will Abiy survive his first test at the ballot box?

Presenter: Mohammed Jamjoom

Guests:

Samuel Getachew – Journalist and writer

William Davison – Senior Ethiopia analyst at International Crisis Group

Adem Abebe – Programme officer at the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance