Thursday January 9, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia's National Independent Electoral Commission announced on Thursday its plan to release a comprehensive schedule for the country's upcoming elections next week.
Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu, Chairperson of the commission Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan reaffirmed the commission's commitment to organizing transparent, one-person, one-vote elections, a critical step in Somalia's democratic process.
"In the coming week, we will publish the full election schedule, detailing timelines for the registration of political associations, voters, and the designation of polling stations," Abdikarin said.
Somalia's last one-person, one-vote election took place in 1969, more than five decades ago. Since then, the country has relied on indirect polls, with no broad political consensus on transitioning to universal suffrage. Abdikarin emphasized that the commission is prepared to break this impasse and facilitate a historic election where Somali citizens directly elect their leaders.
The commission, established in November last year, has faced significant opposition from some federal member states, particularly Puntland and Jubbaland, as well as political groups critical of the Federal Government. Despite these challenges, Abdikarin reiterated the commission's resolve to ensure a credible and transparent electoral process.