In a decisive move to steer Somalia toward a direct electoral system, prominent leaders such as Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, and Deputy Information Minister Abdirahman Yusuf Adala have expressed their full support for the “one person, one vote” model. This initiative represents a departure from Somalia’s long-standing clan-based power-sharing system, aiming to reshape the political landscape through direct democracy.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud reinforced this commitment, emphasizing that Somalia’s future lies in a party-based, direct voting model, dismissing any return to indirect elections. Following a recent National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting with federal and regional leaders, the government outlined plans for local elections in June 2025, followed by parliamentary and presidential elections in September 2025.
However, the absence of Puntland and Jubaland from the NCC meeting raised questions about regional divisions on the shift to direct voting. The Jubbaland regional government expressed strong opposition to the meeting’s outcomes, particularly concerning election matters and the extension of terms for some regional administrations within the federal framework. In a press release, Jubbaland emphasized its autonomy over conducting its elections according to its own schedule.
“Jubbaland has the right, in adherence to constitutional guidelines to prevent a governance vacuum, to ensure that elections at all levels take place on time, with no further extensions,” the statement read. Referring to Article 80 of the Jubbaland Constitution, it asserted that the Independent Boundaries and Elections Commission of Jubbaland holds authority over local, parliamentary, and presidential elections.
Jubbaland also criticized the Federal Government for excluding Puntland and SSC Khaatumo from the National Consultative Council discussions. However, President Hassan Sheikh had previously extended an invitation to these administrations to participate in the meeting.
This consensus among Somalia’s Federal Government and several Federal Member States—excluding Puntland and Jubaland—was formalized in Mogadishu after extensive discussions. The agreement shifts the nation toward direct, party-based elections, modifying the timeline with local elections set for June 2025 and regional parliamentary and leadership elections scheduled for September 2025.
Statements from the ministers highlight the administration’s commitment to overcoming political divides to establish a unified electoral system, even in the face of opposition. Both Puntland and Jubaland have long voiced concerns over federal influence on regional autonomy, often choosing to opt out of decisions made within the National Consultative Council (NCC). This initiative signals a substantial effort toward a sustainable democratic process in Somalia, envisioning a governance model that aligns with a cohesive national identity.
