Minister of Information, Cultural and Tourism Voices Support for New Electoral System

In a groundbreaking move that marks a significant turning point for Somalia, the nation has announced its decision to adopt a direct election system, allowing its citizens to directly choose their leaders. This progressive step towards democratization and political reform has garnered widespread support, including from the Minister of Information, Cultural and Tourism, Daud Aweis Jama, who commended the President’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and political participation. The decision to transition from an indirect election system, which relied on the selection of delegates to choose leaders on behalf of the public, to a direct election process reflects Somalia’s commitment to expanding its political space and promoting inclusivity and participation. By allowing citizens to choose their representatives and entrust them with state powers, the country aims to empower its people and foster a sense of ownership over the political process. One of the key implications of this electoral reform is the dismantling of the 4.5 clan power-sharing system that has long dominated Somali politics. This system, which allocated political power based on clan representation, has been a source of criticism for its limited inclusivity and representation. The move towards direct elections is expected to pave the way for diverse, representative, and capable leadership that better reflects the aspirations and diversity of the Somali population. Minister Daud Aweis Jama emphasized the importance of this shift, stating that ‘citizens deserve the right to choose their representatives and entrust them with state powers.’ He praised the President’s commitment to ensuring a fair and inclusive electoral process, seeing it as a sincere dedication to fostering political participation and promoting the ideals of democracy. The decision to adopt direct elections is likely to be met with enthusiasm from the Somali population, as it grants them a more active role in shaping the country’s future. This move is seen as a positive step towards addressing longstanding concerns about transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in Somali politics. With the new electoral system in place, Somalia aims to build a government that truly represents the will and aspirations of its citizens. The country hopes to create a political environment that encourages competent leadership, social cohesion, and sustainable development. The successful implementation of direct elections will be crucial in ensuring a fair and inclusive democratic process, bolstering the nation’s stability and progress. As Somalia embarks on this transformative journey, the international community is closely observing the progress and offering support to strengthen democratic institutions and practices. The adoption of direct elections demonstrates Somalia’s commitment to political reform, and it is a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to build a more democratic and prosperous future for its people.

Source: Somali National News Agency