Monday January 27, 2025
Somalia’s Electoral Commission Chairperson, Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan, shakes hands with European Union Ambassador to Somalia, Karin Johansson, following a meeting in Mogadishu to discuss preparations for the country’s transition to a one-person, one-vote electoral system. CREDIT / SUPPLIED
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s Electoral Commission Chairperson Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan met with European Union Ambassador Karin Johansson on Monday to discuss preparations for the country’s transition to a one-person, one-vote electoral system. The meeting emphasized Somalia’s democratic aspirations and the EU’s role in supporting this critical initiative.
The chairperson outlined the commission’s progress, highlighting recent efforts to register political organizations as a foundational step toward ensuring inclusive elections. “Our mission is to provide all Somali citizens with the opportunity to elect their leaders at various administrative levels,” Hassan said. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to conducting elections that reflect the principles of universal suffrage.
As part of its outreach, the commission has begun engaging with federal member states to assess their readiness for the upcoming elections. Earlier this week, officials visited Baidoa, the interim capital of South West State, where they met with local leaders. Similar visits are planned for other states, underscoring the commission’s focus on nationwide inclusivity.
The federal government approved a bill in August 2024 to implement universal suffrage, a move widely hailed as a milestone for the country.
However, the transition to a universal suffrage model has not been without challenges. Jubaland and Puntland have openly rejected the framework, citing concerns over its feasibility and fairness. Opposition politicians have also accused the federal government of attempting to manipulate the process to benefit specific political groups.
Despite these criticisms, the Somali government and its international partners view the one-person, one-vote system as essential to strengthening democratic institutions and fostering political stability. Ambassador Johansson reaffirmed the EU’s support for Somalia’s electoral reforms, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and credible elections in stabilizing the country.
Somalia last held direct national elections in 1969. The country’s political trajectory was disrupted by a military coup that same year, followed by decades of conflict and instability. The EU’s continued financial and technical assistance is expected to play a key role in addressing these hurdles.
