(22-05-23) MOGADISHU – With Puntland set to hold district council elections on Thursday, May 25, Somalia’s international partners commended the people of the Federal Member State for their commitment to democratic development, despite myriad challenges.
The Transitional Puntland Electoral Commission (TPEC) has notably been recognised for their tireless efforts in organising this historic event. This will be the first time direct elections are held, marking a significant step forward for democracy in the region.
The international community has urged all involved parties to ensure the elections are conducted peacefully and to address any disputes through legal and dialogic channels.
“The local elections on Thursday will not only be an important milestone for the Federal Member State of Puntland but for the whole of Somalia,” said UK Deputy Ambassador Ed Barnett. Echoing Barnett’s sentiments, the US embassy added, “The partners encourage all stakeholders to contribute to ensuring the elections are conducted in a peaceful atmosphere & to address any questions or disputes that may arise through dialogue & the legal framework.”
The upcoming elections have also sparked optimism within the country. Abdi Farah Juha, Minister of Interior of Puntland, asserted, “What happens here in Puntland could also happen in the rest of Somalia. Let the people decide.”
With their potential to inspire the expansion of democracy across Somalia, these elections have significant implications for the nation at large. Analysts suggest that Puntland’s experiment could be a role model for other regions.
Mohamed Mubarak, a political analyst and Chairman of the Hiraal Institute in Mogadishu, explained to Halqabsi News, “Fully expected, as democratization was always supported by the international community. It’s also a message to anyone that wants to derail it: don’t even think about it. You’ll be held accountable.”
Puntland’s pioneering spirit and commitment to democratic aspirations have drawn the attention and support of international partners, who remain committed to Somalia’s democratisation process. They believe that Puntland’s experience could indeed inform and inspire broader democratic reforms across the country.
