Wafido Candidates Assaulted

April 11/2005
So far 35 cases of candidate intimidation, harassment and even beatings have been reported to the Ethiopian National Election Board, the government's body that presides over these cases. One such attack took place in Obbo Bulchaa's electoral district, where he had opened a small office. The office keeper was badly wounded in the head, posters were ripped off and people in the community were warned not to go to that office. The Election Board has not taken any action yet.

International Election Observers Expelled

The government of Ethiopia, has ordered American election observers to leave the country within 48 hours. The pole officials were in the country on voter education assignment in preparation for the May 15 election. The government claims that the group did not have a permit to work, and were interfering in local matters. In addition, a Norwegian professor: a member of the EU mission, has also been ordered to leave.