some are boycotting it all together. opposition figure and fierce critic of the prime minister jawar mohammad remains in jail accused of terrorism and other charges, the u.s. voiced alarms over the conditions of the elections. the state department issued a statement saying "the united states is gravely concerned about the environment under which these upcoming elections are to be held." the country had big hopes for abiy when he was awarded in 2018. he was praised for cracking down on corruption and freeing political prisoners. abiy made many promises but his military leadership. the government hopes for a democratic election but it comes at a time of turmoil when fighting in tigray has killed thousands leaving people on the verge of starvation and threatening the credibility of the voting process.