A consultation meeting focused on key provisions of Law No. 7 is underway in Garowe, the capital of Puntland.

The discussion brings together the Puntland Ministry of Interior, district council chairpersons recently elected through popular votes, members of the Puntland House of Representatives, and representatives from civil society organizations.

Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Internal Affairs, Mr. Abdirisaaq Jama Taraag, emphasized that the discussions align with recommendations from the 54th parliamentary session and follow-up meetings held with the Ministry of Interior during the 55th session.

These efforts aim to reform decentralization processes and address existing administrative challenges.

“We are yet to finalize crucial legislation for Puntland’s decentralization. However, I am optimistic that this meeting will pave the way for completing policies necessary to strengthen governance across different levels,” stated Mr. Abdirisaaq Jama Taraag.

Earlier this year, Puntland successfully held one-person-one-vote elections, leading to the establishment of new district councils. The ongoing discussions focus on the financial burden posed by the large number of council members and the need to align Law No. 7 with the realities of the newly elected councils.

Minister of Interior, Abdi Farah Said (Juxa), stressed the importance of amending the law to empower communities while ensuring that council chairpersons do not concentrate power.

“Article 29 does not reflect the democratic principles of Puntland. As elected local councils, you must advocate for democracy. A council elected by the people has the right to appoint its district mayor,” said Minister Juxa.

Among the proposals raised by council members is the need to end the Ministry of Interior’s appointment of district secretaries, advocating for local-level decision-making instead. They also called for a reduction in the number of council members to alleviate financial constraints on the government.

Minister Juxa insisted that central government responsibilities, including security, administration, and taxation, must remain intact. He also raised concerns about proposed changes to how tax revenues are managed and the degree of autonomy districts should have over their financial resources.

The outcome of these discussions is expected to shape Puntland’s governance framework and ensure that decentralization efforts meet the needs of its growing democratic institutions.

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The congresswoman commended the people of Puntland and Somalia for their determination and commitment to democracy.

Rep. Omar shared her personal experience of visiting Qardo at the end of the previous year, where she witnessed the people’s hope for the future and their desire for a democratic process.

“I want to congratulate the people of Puntland and Somalia on their historic elections this week. When I was in Qardo at the end of last year, I was touched by people’s hope for the future and commitment to democracy. I urge all involved to ensure a peaceful and fair election process,” she said in her statement.

She emphasized the importance of ensuring a peaceful and fair election process for all parties involved.

In her statement, Rep. Omar also expressed her gratitude to the Puntland President for his dedication and leadership in making the elections a reality. She highlighted the significance of these elections in promoting democracy in Somalia and praised Puntland for taking the lead in this endeavor.

The elections in Puntland mark a significant step forward for Somalia as it strives to strengthen its democratic institutions and processes. Rep. Omar’s statement reinforces the importance of these elections and encourages all stakeholders to uphold the principles of democracy throughout the electoral process.

As the election unfolds, the eyes of the international community will be on Puntland, eagerly watching the progress and outcomes that will shape the future of the region and Somalia as a whole.

A remarkable total of 3,775 candidates are vying for seats as local councilors, reflecting the enthusiastic participation of Puntland’s population. The voter registration process successfully enrolled over 387,000 individuals, with women making up an impressive 49.7% of the registered voters. About seven registered political parties have participated in the Thursday election.

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The Transitional Puntland Electoral Commission (TPEC) confirmed that this state-wide direct poll for local government positions is a significant moment for the region. A remarkable total of 3,775 candidates are vying for seats as local councilors, reflecting the enthusiastic participation of Puntland’s population. The voter registration process successfully enrolled over 387,000 individuals, with women making up an impressive 49.7% of the registered voters.

Unlike the neighbouring Somaliland, Puntland has granted internally displaced persons the right to vote and actively engage in the political campaign leading up to the elections. This progressive decision showcases Puntland’s commitment to inclusivity and democratic principles.

A monumental day for the entire Somali nation

Commenting on the opening of the polling stations on Thursday, Abdirizak Ahmed Said, Chairman of TPEC, called upon all registered voters to exercise their civic duty, emphasizing the profound significance of this election for the entire country.

“Today, Puntland etches its name in history, symbolizing a monumental day not only for our region but for the entire Somali nation,” declared TPEC Chairman Said.

Among the enthusiastic voters was 62-year-old Ahmed Adan Omar, who walked for over an hour to reach the polling station in Boodaal, located in the Gumbax district in Bari [east] region. Omar expressed hope that this election would empower him and fellow locals to bring about positive change in their district.

“When we elect our city council leaders, we can hold them accountable. We have the right to question how they spend our tax money and what services they provide us. This is not just an election; it is the reclamation of our freedom,” Omar passionately stated in an interview with Kaab TV.

Farther east in the coastal town of Murcanyo, residents formed orderly lines, segregated by gender, as they eagerly waited to cast their votes shortly after 5 am on Thursday.

“I am thrilled today because I have never witnessed such an event,” exclaimed 25-year-old Halima Mohamed. “I was born during the civil war, and I am grateful that I am queuing today to exercise my right to vote. Whoever wins will be my leader.”

Despite the positive atmosphere, the election faced a setback in the Puntland capital, Garowe, as armed gunmen supported by local opposition politicians blocked roads, preventing locals from accessing polling stations and exercising their democratic rights.

Speaking from the port city of Bosaso after casting his vote, Puntland’s Interior Minister, Abdi Farah Said, announced the suspension of voting in Garowe city to avoid violence. Minister Said held opposition politicians responsible for mobilizing clan militias with the intent of disrupting the electoral process.

“We made every effort to negotiate with them [opposition members], but they adamantly rejected all proposals,” Minister Said expressed with disappointment.

Additionally, the federal government of Somalia has faced accusations of sabotaging the Puntland elections. Claims of arming local militias and providing funding to opposition figures opposing the poll have further strained relations between Puntland and the central government in Mogadishu. Earlier this month, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s remarks hinted at potential destruction for Puntland within 24 days, culminating in a skirmish in Garowe on May 16 which resulted the death of at least three people.

Nevertheless, Minister Abdi Farah Said highlighted Puntland’s victory in conducting the election peacefully, asserting that it was a clear embarrassment for the federal government in Mogadishu.

Established in 1998 as a semi-autonomous region in the northeast of Somalia, Puntland has managed to maintain relative peace and stability since the outbreak of the Somali civil war in 1991. Renowned for its oil-rich resources, the region has developed its own constitution, and today’s elections represent another step forward in its democratic progress.

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The partners, which include the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), Belgium, Denmark, Djibouti, Ethiopia, the European Union (EU) Delegation, Finland, France, Germany, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Ireland, Italy, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Netherlands, Norway, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Russia, Sweden, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the United Nations, praised Puntland’s determination to fulfill its democratic aspirations and commitments.

Recognizing the significant challenges faced by Puntland’s Transitional Puntland Electoral Commission (TPEC) in preparing for this historic event of direct elections, the international partners acknowledged the commendable efforts put forth by the commission. Overcoming obstacles along the way, TPEC has been working tirelessly to ensure a transparent and inclusive electoral process.

“The partners acknowledge the efforts, notably by the Transitional Puntland Electoral Commission (TPEC), to overcome significant challenges in preparing for this historic event of direct elections,” it said.

Maintaining a peaceful atmosphere throughout the elections

In their statement, the international partners urged all stakeholders involved to contribute to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere throughout the elections. They emphasized the importance of resolving any questions or disputes that may arise through constructive dialogue and adherence to the legal framework.

Furthermore, the partners expressed their belief that Puntland’s experience with direct elections could serve as a valuable example and inspiration for the expansion of democracy across Somalia at all levels of government. Demonstrating their commitment to supporting Somalia’s ongoing democratization process, the international partners affirmed their dedication to providing continued assistance and guidance.

The district council elections in Puntland hold significance as they mark another step forward in the country’s nascent democracy.

With international partners rallying behind the process, Puntland’s aspirations for an inclusive and transparent electoral system receive crucial backing. As the election day draws near, all eyes are on Puntland to observe its progress towards a more democratic and participatory governance system.

Amidst preparations for the district council elections in Puntland, allegations have emerged regarding the alleged interference of the Mogadishu government in an attempt to create chaos ahead of the planned elections. According to sources, the Federal Government of Somalia has been accused of funding local politicians and armed groups with the intention of inciting violence and destabilizing the electoral process in Puntland.

This alleged interference came to light on May 16 when a violent gun fight incident in Garowe city resulted in the loss of at least three lives including two policemen. While investigations are ongoing, these allegations have raised concerns about the peace and stability of a region known to be more peaceful for decades, emphasizing the need for a peaceful and fair environment in which the democratic aspirations of the people of Puntland can be realized.

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