Institutionalization of Democratic Institutions, Challenges, and Prospects Post-1991 Ethiopia: The Electoral Process of Ethiopia

Abstract

The electoral process is understood as a continuous process often divided into three periods: the pre-election, Election and post-election period. The harmonies run of this course of action can support the democratic system. Currently, it has become an essential component of democratic development too. Due to this, countries in the world have started to look critically about election management for supporting the electoral process, Ethiopia is no exception. Since the adoption of multiparty politics in 1991 the electoral process and its practice become challenge in Ethiopia. So this paper aimed at assessing the challenges and prospects of institutionalizing the electoral process of Ethiopia since 1991. To this end, a descriptive case study design and qualitative approach were employed to gather data from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected using in-depth interviews, key-informants, and FGD methods from purposively selected individuals. Again secondary data such as Books, a chapter in a book, a journal article, other research works, and webpages were used. It also employed the grounded theory analysis method, the data obtained from data collection was followed by creating themes, identification of topics, and sub-topics that are organized and rearranged logically by the investigator to make the analysis more convenient. The finding of the study shows that the Electoral process faces a continuous challenge from both the side of NEBE which exhibited sluggish institutional development with influenced and unprofessional electoral official made trouble on the issue of integrality in the conduct election. Outside of the board insecurity, Electoral conflict, and inactive Media and NGOs, inequitable representation and incompetent parties were the challenges of the electoral process. Conversely, there were practical attempts on the quality of conducting a free and fair election. However, it was not sufficient for institutionalizing the electoral process. The study revealed that the government could play a role as advocator, initiator, and implementer of reform agendas in cooperation with opposition political parties. Medias and NGOs can undertake civic and voter educations, both are ‘Watchdogs’ and can monitor the election process. Finally, the technical or material support given as a form of Electoral assistance is significant to the electoral process. Accordingly, the prospects were the opening of political space, reforms, and experience of the board, reforms on other mutual democratic institutions, and the flourishing of various independent Media. Further, the confidence of the board can initiate external electoral support and assistance, including Diasporas.