KAMPALA/ADDIS ABABA — Ethiopians from across the country turned up in large numbers at polling stations early Monday to cast their votes in the country’s 7th General Election, in a show of civic participation that officials say has challenged negative international narratives surrounding the polls.

From the early hours of the morning, long queues were seen forming at polling stations as citizens patiently waited to exercise their democratic right and determine the country’s political future.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed cast his vote in Beshasha during Ethiopia’s 7th General Election, joining President Taye Atske Selassie, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh and Speaker Tagesse Chafo, who also participated in the nationwide vote.

The voter turnout has sharply contrasted with recent speculation and criticism from sections of the international media, which had raised concerns over the credibility and atmosphere surrounding the election.

Speaking amid the ongoing vote, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Uganda, Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu, said the poll reflects Ethiopia's democratic progress.

She also accused some foreign media outlets of spreading misinformation and deliberately misrepresenting the situation on the ground.

“This week we have been dealing with a lot of misinformation. Some of what has been reported by sections of the media is completely out of touch with reality,” Ambassador Etsegenet said.

She specifically criticized what she described as repeated use of misleading imagery and one-sided reporting by international broadcasters.

She says over the last five years, Ethiopia’s development has moved far and beyond.

The ambassador argued that Ethiopia’s progress and resilience are being overshadowed by what she termed a coordinated attempt to tarnish the country’s reputation.

Ambassador Etsegenet described the negative coverage as “a calculated smear campaign intended to taint the image of Ethiopia and undermine the achievements the country has registered in recent years.”

Despite the criticism, today’s scenes across Ethiopia reflected determination among voters, with many undeterred by external commentary and eager to take part in shaping the nation’s future.

Observers say the strong turnout is being viewed by many Ethiopians as a statement of confidence in the country’s democratic process and a rejection of narratives they believe do not accurately represent the realities inside Ethiopia.

As voting continues, the election is expected to remain under close regional and international attention, with millions participating in one of the Horn of Africa nation’s most closely watched democratic exercises.