Chaos erupted in Somalia’s parliament on Wednesday during deliberations over the approval of 18 members for the electoral commission tasked with guiding the country’s transition to a one-person, one-vote system, Garowe Online reports. The proposed model has faced strong opposition from some regional states, particularly Jubaland and Puntland.
The parliamentary session in Mogadishu was disrupted when opposition MPs from Jubaland staged a protest using sirens, temporarily halting proceedings. Critics argue that the universal suffrage plan could lead to term extensions and undermine regional autonomy.
Meanwhile, tensions have risen in Jubaland, where reports indicate a federal troop buildup. Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe has refused to facilitate direct elections in the region, intensifying the standoff between his administration and the federal government.
Despite these challenges, parliament approved the 18-member Independent Electoral and Boundaries Committee. However, the withdrawal of Jubaland and Puntland from the electoral agreement casts doubt on the commission’s ability to implement the new voting system across the country.