Mogadishu (AX) — Somalia’s electoral landscape is on the brink of a transformation. Next week, the National Independent Electoral Commission plans to reveal a detailed roadmap for the nation’s forthcoming elections.
During a bustling Mogadishu press briefing, the chair of the commission, Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan, emphasized their steadfast dedication to orchestrating fair, transparent elections. This move is a monumental leap forward for Somalia’s democracy. “Expect a full schedule next week,” Abdikarin promised. “It’ll outline the timelines for registering political parties, voters, and setting up polling stations.”
Remarkably, Somalia hasn’t held a one-person, one-vote election since 1969. For over fifty years, the nation depended on indirect voting mechanisms without garnering widespread political agreement to shift towards a more universal voting system. Abdikarin is determined for the commission to tackle this deadlock, enabling a historic election where Somalis can directly elect their leaders.
Formed in November, the commission has not been without its detractors. Certain federal member states, notably Northeastern State and Jubbaland, along with some political factions critical of the Federal Government, have voiced their objections. However, Abdikarin reaffirmed the commission’s unwavering commitment to delivering a credible, transparent election process, undeterred by these hurdles.
The core message here is unmistakable: Somalia is on the verge of a democratic overhaul, one that could reshape its political landscape and empower its citizens. As the electoral commission gears up to share its schedule, the nation holds its breath, eager for a new dawn in its democratic journey.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
