In a significant political development, Somalia’s parliament has passed a landmark electoral reform bill that paves the way for a transition to universal suffrage, which will replace the current indirect election system. Under the new system, the Somali people will be able to elect their leaders directly, a major step towards democratization for a country that has faced decades of instability, including civil war and the collapse of central governance.

The reform follows years of negotiations and the 2024 approval of a new electoral framework that aims to establish a one-person, one-vote system. This will be the first time Somalia has had such a system since 1969, when military leader Siad Barre took power.

The law also mandates the creation of an Independent Electoral Commission to manage the elections. Local, regional, and municipal elections are slated for June 2025, with the first national elections under universal suffrage to follow in September 2025.

The approval of the reform comes amid various political challenges. Some regional leaders, including the President of Puntland and Jubbaland, have expressed opposition, arguing that the proposed system could extend the terms of the current regional presidents and undermine national stability. Additionally, critics, such as opposition leaders and former politicians, view the move as illegal, claiming it threatens the integrity of Somalia’s governance.

For Somalia, transitioning to universal suffrage is a crucial step towards rebuilding democratic institutions and addressing the country’s political fragmentation. This change is also seen as essential for fostering national unity and promoting good governance, crucial for Somalia’s long-term development and economic recovery. As the country prepares for the first general elections under this new framework, much remains to be seen regarding the successful implementation and whether it will help alleviate the current challenges, such as ongoing security concerns and economic instability.

This electoral reform holds great significance not only for Somalia’s political landscape but also for its development prospects, as it signals a move towards greater transparency, accountability, and citizen participation. The coming elections will likely be a pivotal moment in Somalia’s efforts to establish lasting peace and stability after decades of turmoil.