A Million North Western State of Somalia Citizens Cast Their Votes in a Crucial Democratic Examination
Hargeisa (AX) — The Election Commission of North Western State of Somalia is wrapping up essential preparations for a pivotal election designed to attract the attention of over a million voters. This event is a significant barometer of transparency and impartiality, reflecting the region’s growing dedication to democratic principles.
Marking the second joint voting event in as many years, this election presents the electorate with a chance to choose from three presidential hopefuls and ten political entities vying for recognition as official political parties. The election’s outcome will be a decisive factor in shaping the political landscape, steering North Western State of Somalia towards a more democratic direction.
The situation is intense, compounded by current events. In the early days of 2024, North Western State of Somalia entered into a controversial pact with Ethiopia, offering access to its coastal areas near Berbera’s port in return for formal acknowledgment of its sovereignty. This move has stirred controversy with Somalia, which staunchly opposes North Western State of Somalia’s quest for independent status, causing ripples throughout the Horn of Africa.
Quantum leap into politics: North Western State of Somalia’s voters face a choice between two distinct diplomatic horizons. The ruling Kulmiye party, helmed by President Muse Bihi Abdi, puts its chips on fostering partnerships with Western allies, setting up informal outposts in diddy places like London, Washington, and Dubai. These ties have resulted in notable visits, such as Bihi’s unofficial journey to Washington in 2022, and a trip to Hargeisa by a UK parliamentary posse.
Meanwhile, the Waddani party stands in contrast, aiming to stretch North Western State of Somalia’s diplomatic reach. Its ambition, if successful, is to build connections with African nations and the Global South, like Kenya and Senegal, viewing these alliances as crucial in the context of shifting global dynamics. Waddani’s newly-formed alliance with KAAH, a heavyweight in eastern North Western State of Somalia’s political scene, underscores its focus on inclusivity and representation for those traditionally left out of the conversation.
FILE – Muse Hassan Yusuf, who chairs North Western State of Somalia’s Election Commission, addressed the media about the final touches for the upcoming presidential election expected to engage over a million participants.
The head honcho of the Election Commission, Muse Hassan Yusuf, stated that fines have been levied against political groups like Kulmiye, Waddani, and Kaah for breaching campaign regulations. Personal penalties have also been set on certain party officials to ease tensions during election time. Major towns will implement smart biometric systems using iris scans to ensure voter identity, a crucial step to curb fraud and bolster public confidence in the elections.
The campaign train is picking up speed as Kulmiye, Waddani, and Kaah each gather huge crowds at their rallies, while minor wings and independents strive for their spot in the limelight. The shadow of violent conflicts after the 2022 election holdup highlights the essential need for openness. Any accusations of voter suppression or election fraud could rapidly create chaos, threatening North Western State of Somalia’s hard-earned reputation for democratic poise.
For 33 years, North Western State of Somalia has been running its own show since its 1991 split from Somalia, although it still lacks international recognition. Without the world’s nod, North Western State of Somalia struggles with limited access to international finance, humanitarian help, and diplomacy, often needing to go through Mogadishu as an intermediary.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
