US Calls for Electoral Consensus as Somalia’s Federal Government Term Nears End
State Department Urges Unity on Somali Electoral Model
The US Department of State has called for consensus on Somalia’s electoral model following the recent National Consultative Council summit in Mogadishu. With just one year remaining in the current administration’s term, the statement notably omitted any reference to recent constitutional amendments, drawing attention from opposition groups focused on electoral reforms.
Somalia’s Path to Democratic Elections
The Federal Government of Somalia aims to implement direct elections (one person, one vote) by 2026-2027, continuing efforts begun by previous administrations. This year, Mogadishu is preparing for district-level elections, which would mark the capital’s first democratic polls since 1969 if successful.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, during his first term (2012-2017), established three federal member states and introduced a bicameral legislature. His current administration is now pursuing prime ministerial system reforms and party-based universal suffrage elections.
Constitutional Tensions Between Federal and State Governments
Puntland State has strongly opposed constitutional amendments passed by the federal legislature, with both Puntland and Jubaland enacting their own constitutional changes through regional parliaments. This standoff has significantly narrowed opportunities for federal-level constitutional negotiations.
Governance Challenges in Somalia’s Federal System
The political landscape reveals several critical challenges:
- Potential for executive branch influence over legislative decisions
- Concerns about unilateral appointments of MPs and Senators
- Disputes over Somaliland’s representation in federal institutions
Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni cited Somaliland’s continued federal representation as a key reason for reducing ties with Mogadishu in 2023, calling it a distortion of federal principles.
Accountability Questions in Somali Politics
The absence of consultation between Federal Member States and their federal legislators before constitutional amendments raises serious concerns about governance transparency. The selection process for MPs and Senators directly impacts legislative quality and accountability.
As Somalia approaches critical elections, the fundamental question remains: Which level of government should lead by example in establishing good governance practices – the Federal Government or the Federal Member States?
Source: Puntland Post