Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Deacon Daniel Kibret, a prominent public figure and Social Affairs Advisor to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has officially confirmed his candidacy for the Prosperity Party in the upcoming 7th general election. Kibret will represent the Arada Woreda Two 14 constituency, replacing Dr. Samuel Kifle, the President of Addis Ababa University, who recently withdrew from the race.
Speaking to Tikvah Ethiopia, Deacon Daniel Kibret affirmed his participation as a Prosperity Party candidate. When initially pressed for details regarding his preparations for the constituency, Kibret stated, "The place I am in right now is not convenient to give detailed explanations." However, he provided a concise "Yes" when asked directly if it was true that he had been presented as a Prosperity Party candidate.
Further clarifying his electoral district, Kibret confirmed, "I will compete in the Arada Woreda Two 14 constituency." He also acknowledged that he would be taking over the constituency previously contested by Dr. Samuel Kifle. When asked about the circumstances of this replacement, Kibret deferred, stating, "I don't know that; the party and the Election Board know."
Efforts by Tikvah Ethiopia to reach Dr. Samuel Kifle for comment on this development were unsuccessful, as calls to his mobile phone went unanswered.
However, Dr. Samuel Kifle had previously informed the Ethiopia Insider website that he voluntarily withdrew from the competition at the beginning of April 2026. He cited "personal reasons" for his decision, and the Ethiopian National Election Board subsequently accepted his request, removing him from the list of candidates.
Dr. Samuel's initial candidacy, representing the ruling Prosperity Party in the Arada Sub-city for a parliamentary seat, had drawn scrutiny. His nomination was widely reported to be in conflict with the autonomous universities proclamation. This legislation mandates that university presidents must resign from party membership to ensure the political neutrality and independence of higher education institutions. The potential conflict of interest likely played a significant role in his decision to withdraw.
With Dr. Samuel's withdrawal, Deacon Daniel Kibret's confirmation to contest the Arada Sub-city parliamentary seat marks a notable shift in the electoral landscape. Kibret is a familiar face in Ethiopian politics, having previously served as a member of the House of People's Representatives after successfully running as an independent candidate in the 6th general election. His current move to run under the banner of the Prosperity Party for the 7th general election signifies a new chapter in his political career.
This development sets the stage for an intriguing contest in the Arada constituency, as the nation prepares for its next general election.
Source: Telegram / tikvahethiopia