The Challenges to Free and Fair Election in the Horn of Africa: The Case of Ethiopia (1990-2010)

Abstract

Since the end of Cold War, countries of the Horn of Africa have introduced competitive multi-party election. The examination of election, however, proved that elections in these countries are marred by irregularities. In this study, Ethiopia was selected as a case study. The study identified many shortcomings of elections in the country, including intimidation, harassment, and detention as well as arrest of members and supporters of opposition which was inimical to free and fair elections. The investigation of election and practical actions of the leaderships in Ethiopia proves that the country became mired in a system that dressed an essentially authoritarian or ‘one-party’ system in the garbs of democracy. The study analyzed the major factors responsible for the failure of free and fair election and identified the ideology and nature of the ruling party such as the lust for dominating power, the attempt to democratize without reaching national consensus, and lack of good faith; the failure of the system in providing a leveled field for all legitimate player; the enactments of restrictive laws, the absence of strong and independent civil society, opposition groups, judiciary, and media; and the lack commitment as the major ones. The study concluded that the legal orders of the country need to be revised through negotiated compromise for free and fair election to flourish.