Somalia’s cabinet approved a bill on Thursday that could usher in a new era of direct democracy in the country. If confirmed by parliament, the bill will revert the country’s election system to universal suffrage for the first time in decades, ending a process of indirect voting.
For years, Somalia has been grappling with widespread insecurity caused by an Islamist insurgency and weak state structures. This has led to a system where lawmakers voted for the president, while clan heads and elders elected lawmakers in both the federal government and regional states. The country initially planned to move to direct voting in 2020 but protracted political squabbles and persistent insecurity across the country forced the government to retain the indirect ballot.
However, this could be changing. “The election rules will lead the country to one person one vote nationally,” government spokesperson Farhan Jimale said in a statement. “(This) will give the citizens the power to vote and elect for the first time after 55 years. It is a historic day” he said.
The policy was announced last year by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who was elected by lawmakers for a five-year mandate in May 2022. Its implementation faces significant logistical and security challenges due to the lack of infrastructure and the presence of al Shabaab, an Islamist militant group that maintains control over large swathes of the country.
Despite the challenges, the potential for a return to direct voting is a significant step forward for Somalia. It could empower citizens, strengthen democratic processes, and pave the way for a more stable and prosperous future.
