Garowe, PUNTLAND — The parliament in Puntland made a decisive move toward democratic reform in July by enacting legislation that heralded the introduction of multiparty politics and cemented direct elections in Puntland . This pivotal transition, as chronicled by The Somali Digest, saw the disbanding of the Transitional Puntland Electoral Commission, thereby clearing the path for the inception of the Puntland Electoral Commission (PEC). Entrusted with the facilitation of democratic proceedings, the PEC fortified its resolve by earmarking the elections for February 25, 2024. While this date succeeds the initially envisioned January 8th, it signifies a deliberate and measured strategy, underscoring a pledge to implement a comprehensive electoral process within a feasible and well-considered timeline.
Resisting the Tide of Democracy
n the face of this democratic momentum, remnants of the Al-Ittihad Al-Islamiya (AIAI) exert substantial influence in Somalia, particularly in Puntland. Recently, this group convened what was purported to be an “elders” conference — a gathering that conspicuously lacked the participation of the majority of legitimate elders — to oppose the direct election mandate. Among these dissenters was Abdikani Qorane who, in a revealing interview, boasted connections with the Al-Shabab leader, disqualifying such figures from any claim to democratic legitimacy. These so-called elders proposed an ultimatum: to host indirect elections presently, with a promise to transition to direct elections in five years—a clear diversion to undermine the immediate realization of Puntland’s democratic rights.
The Convoluted Call for Indirect Elections
Exploring the underpinnings of the elders’ proposition unveils the illusory nature of their agenda. By insisting on a five-year intermission prior to adopting direct elections, these figures are effectively questioning PEC’s thorough preparatory efforts. Furthermore, they seek to obstruct the democratic ambitions of Puntland’s populace. To dismantle an imminent electoral framework in favor of a postponed commitment suggests a calculated scheme to perpetuate the prevailing power structure.
The Elders’ Strategy: A Democratic Mirage
Analyzing the narrative spun by the opposition reveals a strategy that is rich in political machinations but poor in democratic integrity. Significantly, the demand for indirect elections veils an intention to perpetuate political patronage and subvert the sovereign will of the populace. By cleverly positing a future promise of direct elections, these elders are bargaining with the very essence of democracy. Moreover, they are effectively holding it hostage to their terms and timelines, which undermines the immediate need for democratic enactment.
Democracy Deferred or Delivered?
The premise of postponing direct elections in Puntland under the guise of ensuring future stability is, at best, misguided and, at worst, a deliberate attempt to dilute the potency of the people’s voice. Consequently, true democracy does not tolerate delay; rather, it thrives on the immediacy of practice and the consistent pursuit of improvement.
The Crucible of Puntland’s Democratic Journey
As Puntland stands on the cusp of a historical electoral event, the international community must not remain a silent spectator. It is incumbent upon global democracies to lend their voice and support to Puntland, ensuring that the rescheduled election date, as per the PEC’s comprehensive schedule, stands not as a postponement but as a testament to the state’s dedication to a transparent and inclusive democratic process.
The Imperative of Now
The tactics employed by opposition groups against Puntland’s democratic reforms signal a wider struggle: the champions of democratic transformation are facing off against the defenders of the status quo. Succumbing to demands for indirect elections, which rely on the vague promise of future direct elections, would undermine the significant momentum towards change initiated by the Puntland parliament.
Puntland’s path to democracy extends beyond its regional borders, becoming a pivotal chapter in the broader narrative of democratic evolution worldwide. Its progress should capture the attention of anyone who cherishes democratic values. In the arena of politics, where promises of future reforms often fade into the background, the commitment to conduct direct elections should stand resolute.
To postpone the democratic rights of Puntland’s citizens based on an uncertain future is to diminish the urgency of their current demand for representation and accountable governance. While political discourse is the lifeline of democracy, direct elections in Puntland is the only way the general public will be empowered. Consequently, the course ahead ought to be unambiguous: adhere to the prearranged elections and substantiate the critical significance of the electorate’s will. The transformative currents surging through Puntland ought not to be muted; instead, they ought to be directed to accelerate the momentum of progress towards the advent of unobstructed democratic rule.
