Garowe, SOMALIA – In a display of unity, leaders and representatives of Puntland’s eight political parties – Mideeye, Horseed, Sincad, Ifiye, Mustaqbal, Shaqaalaha, Runcad, and Kaah – have come together to reaffirm their commitment to democracy and good governance. The historic meeting, chaired by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, resulted in a consensus to hold the long-delayed elections in the three districts of the Nugaal region – Garowe, Dangoroyo, and Godobjiiraan – on 1 August 2024. This decision marks a significant milestone in Puntland’s democratic journey and serves as a testament to the unwavering determination of its political leaders to overcome the challenges posed by anti-democratic forces.
The Nugaal region elections, originally scheduled for 25 May 2023, were abruptly blocked by the Aran Jaan group, a controversial entity allegedly supported by the Mogadishu government led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The group’s actions, coupled with President Mohamud’s ominous warning that Puntland would face destruction within 25 days if it proceeded with the democratic elections, laid bare the Federal Government of Somalia’s (FGS) deep-seated opposition to direct elections and its disregard for the principles of democracy. However, the united front presented by Puntland’s political parties has sent a resounding message that the region will not be cowed by threats or intimidation and will continue to champion the cause of democratic governance.
The Significance of the Nugaal Region Elections
The Nugaal region holds immense strategic and political significance for Puntland. As the administrative capital of the region, Garowe serves as the nerve center of Puntland’s government and is home to key institutions and infrastructure. The city’s importance is underscored by its role in shaping the region’s political landscape and driving its socio-economic development. Similarly, Dangoroyo and Godobjiiraan are crucial districts that contribute to the region’s stability and progress.
The decision to hold elections in the Nugaal region on 1 August 2024 is a critical step towards consolidating democracy and strengthening governance in Puntland. These elections will provide an opportunity for the people of the Nugaal region to exercise their democratic rights, choose their representatives, and have a say in the future of their communities. The elections will also serve as a litmus test for the political parties, allowing them to demonstrate their organizational strength, mobilization capabilities, and ability to connect with the electorate.
Moreover, the successful conduct of elections in the Nugaal region will have far-reaching implications for Puntland’s broader democratic landscape. It will send a powerful message to the rest of Somalia and the international community that Puntland remains committed to the principles of democracy, despite the challenges posed by anti-democratic forces. The elections will also provide a template for future electoral processes in the region, strengthening the foundation for long-term democratic stability and progress.
The Role of Political Parties in Puntland’s Democratic Journey
The unity displayed by Puntland’s eight political parties in the face of adversity is a testament to their maturity, vision, and commitment to the democratic process. These parties, representing a diverse range of ideologies and constituencies, have demonstrated their ability to transcend narrow interests and work together for the greater good of the region. Their decision to jointly pursue the holding of elections in the Nugaal region underscores their recognition of the importance of democracy and their willingness to collaborate to achieve this common goal.
The presence of prominent political figures, such as Abshir Huruuse, the former minister of foreign affairs of Somalia and presidential candidate in the recent Puntland elections, at the meeting with President Said Abdullahi Deni highlights the caliber of leadership within these political parties. Huruuse, the founder and chairman of the Mideeye party, which secured the second position in the local district elections held in May 2023, brings a wealth of experience and credibility to the table. His participation, along with that of other key party representatives, underscores the seriousness and commitment of these parties to the democratic process.
The political parties’ unity and determination to hold elections in the Nugaal region also serve as a powerful counterpoint to the anti-democratic stance of the FGS and its alleged support for groups like Aran Jaan. By standing firm in the face of threats and intimidation, these parties have demonstrated their resilience and their unwavering belief in the power of democracy. Their actions will undoubtedly inspire and empower other political actors across Somalia to stand up for their democratic rights and resist attempts to undermine the will of the people.
Puntland’s Commitment to Direct Elections and Democracy
The decision to hold elections in the Nugaal region on 1 August 2024 is a clear manifestation of Puntland’s unwavering commitment to direct elections and democracy. Despite the challenges posed by the FGS and its alleged proxies, Puntland has consistently championed the cause of democratic governance and has taken concrete steps to institutionalize democratic processes and practices. The successful conduct of local district elections across 30 districts in May 2023 stands as a testament to the region’s dedication to democratic ideals and its capacity to organize free, fair, and transparent elections.
Puntland’s commitment to direct elections and democracy stands in stark contrast to the FGS’s apparent opposition to these principles. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s warning to Puntland that it would be destroyed in days if it proceeded with democratic elections is a chilling reminder of the FGS’s disregard for the fundamental tenets of democracy. Such sentiments not only undermine the democratic aspirations of the Somali people but also erode the legitimacy and credibility of the FGS itself.
Puntland’s political leaders, by standing firm in the face of such threats and reaffirming their commitment to direct elections and democracy, have demonstrated their vision, courage, and determination to build a better future for their people. They have shown that the path to lasting peace, stability, and prosperity lies in the embrace of democratic values and practices, not in the pursuit of narrow, self-serving interests. Their example will undoubtedly inspire other regions and communities across Somalia to follow suit and demand their democratic rights.
