Somalia Cabinet Approves Direct Voting System for 2026 Elections

MOGADISHU, Somalia - In a historic move that aims to reshape the political landscape of Somalia, the cabinet has approved an electoral law that will enable the implementation of a one-person, one-vote system in the upcoming 2026 elections, the first in over half a century.

This shift comes amid a heated debate over constitutional changes that grant the president increased authority as the new system abolishes the PM post and creates a less powerful vice president.

The new electoral bill, cleverly titled the "Electoral Bill," seeks to replace the current system of choosing representatives through a complex network of clan elders, civil society members, and regional state officials. This change is seen as a significant departure from the traditional clan-based politics that have long dominated the Somali political system.

Under the new legislation, direct universal suffrage will be introduced, allowing all eligible citizens to cast their votes and have a say in who leads them. This move represents a major shift away from the indirect voting system that has been in place for decades.

In addition to the electoral reform, the cabinet also approved the "Political Parties Bill," which aims to regulate the formation and operation of political parties in Somalia. This bill is expected to promote a more structured and organized political landscape, fostering healthy competition and diverse representation.

The decision to adopt a one-person, the opposition leaders and some stakeholders have opposed a one-vote system. It is being implemented without a consensus.

The Federal Member States are holding their elections with sitting leaders who want to extend their mandates from 4 to 5 years.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who has been a vocal advocate for electoral reform, expressed his commitment to ensuring that the voice of the Somali citizens becomes valuable in matters relating to their future.

However, the road to implementing this new electoral system is not without its challenges. The bills still need to be approved by the parliament and signed into law by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Moreover, concerns have been raised by some voices of opposition regarding the feasibility of the one-person, one-vote system and the potential for term extensions.

Somali leaders have found themselves embroiled in a new rift over constitutional amendments, leading to a significant fallout within the country's political landscape. The amendments have been met with fierce opposition from Puntland, the oldest Federal State in northeast Somalia.

Puntland has vehemently rejected these changes, arguing that they threaten the delicate balance of power in the country. As a result, Puntland has taken the drastic step of cutting ties with the federal government, further deepening the political crisis in Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE