Ethiopia opposition accepting vote results, two more sought re-run
June 2, 2010 (ADDIS ABABA) – A number of major Ethiopian opposition groups are confirming that they respect and accept the vote results of the public, however two more opposition parties on Tuesday rejected the results.
The ruling Ethiopian Revolutionary People’s Democratic Front (EPRDF) swept over 99% of the total vote results in May 23 parliamentary elections.
In a joint statement they gave on Monday, 14 opposition political parties have declared Prime Minister Meles Zenawi-led EPRDF party as a winner of the 2010 elections, conveying congratulatory message.
“There were some minor irregularities during the electoral process, however we will respect the public vote as we don’t believe these minor problems would anyway bring basic change on the overall election outcome,” opposition officials said in their six-point resolution.
They further pledged to continue a peaceful political struggle.
However, two opposition parties, Birhan for Unity and Democracy and the Ethiopian Democratic Coalition Front today rejected poll results and called for a re-run of election, alleging that the polls were full of irregularities enough to be rigged.
“Our supporters have faced wide intimidation by men of the ruling party, and our observers couldn’t reach-out to all constituencies.”
“We call on the authorities to hold elections again,” opposition official said in a joint statement.
Medrek, the country’s main opposition bloc, as well as the All Ethiopians Unity Party had previously rejected poll results seeking a re-run of election.
Poll results show that the ruling EPRDF party and its allies has won a landslide victory sweeping nearly all seats of the country’s 547 parliamentary seats. The country’s biggest opposition group, MEDREK, coalition of eight political groups secured only one seat, despite wide expectation as a major challenger. The one parliamentary seat MEDREK won is the only seat oppositions will have in the next 5 years term.
Delivering a victory speech, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi’s has invited opposition parties to consult and participate on national affairs.
Both the European Union observer mission and the United States have said the polls did not meet international standards, Ethiopia rejects the allegation.
(ST)