@poaenglish: From rural areas like Beshasha in Jimma Zone, Oromia—known for its coffee, highlands, and farmlands—to major towns and cities, voters have been heading to polling stations since early morning in what is widely seen as a historic national moment. According to the National Election Board of Ethiopia, more than 54 million voters are registered, the highest in the country’s electoral history. A total of 42 political parties are competing for parliamentary seats. Voting continues across the country as observers and election officials monitor the process. The election is also drawing regional attention, given Ethiopia’s strategic role in the Horn of Africa, its population size, and status as host of the African Union headquarters. Pulse of Africa will continue providing live updates throughout Election Day.