The Intersection of Political Decay: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Ethiopia’s 2020 Election Postponement and Its Impact on National Stability

Abstract

Ethiopia operates under a parliamentary system with the Federal House of Peoples’ Representative (HPR) and regional State Councils serving as the supreme legislative bodies. While five successive parliamentary elections were held regularly since 1995, the majority lacked genuine competition. In August 2020, the country was set to hold its sixth general election; however, the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) postponed the polls due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper argues that the delay exacerbated conflicting political demands among elites, impacting national stability. Utilizing a qualitative research methodology, the study concludes that deep-seated mistrust and a low level of institutionalization within democratic bodies contributed significantly to the ensuing political crisis and social unrest.