The Ministry of Interior of Puntland clarifies local councils’ swearing-in and leadership selection processes. In a statement issued today, the Ministry explained some critical aspects of local council election procedures.
Garowe, Puntland, SOMALIA. By Dalmar:
The first point emphasized the quorum required for local councils to take their oaths. The second addressed the election of council leadership. The statement outlined Puntland’s districts in three levels: A, B, and C.
To ensure transparency, maintain efficiency, and prevent political tensions while upholding democratic values, the Ministry of Interior highlighted the following key points:
District local council swearing-in and quorum
- District A, comprising 33 members, necessitates the presence and oath-taking of 22 members in the assembly (two-thirds of all council members).
- District B, with 27 members, requires 18 members to be present and take the constitutional oath (two-thirds of all council members).
- District C, comprising 21 members, mandates the presence and oath-taking of 14 members in the assembly (two-thirds of all council members).
Local council leadership election
- The leadership of the local council is elected on the principle of 50%+1 of the total council members. Article 29 of the Law on the Administration of Regions, Districts, and the Establishment of Local Councils of the Puntland Government (LR.7) stipulates this.
- The election procedure adheres to the requirements in Article 29, including the possibility of using paragraph 3 if deemed necessary.
Finally, the Ministry clarified that local council members attending the assembly must add their signatures. This will affirm their readiness for the constitutional oath.
The statement reaffirms the Puntland Government’s commitment to democratization and decentralization of government institutions. It highlights Puntland as a pioneer of Somalia’s federal system of governance. The statement also underlines Puntland’s dedication to holding local elections, where citizens will elect their representatives.
The next step will be the election of the President and Members of Parliament through a one-person, one-vote system. The government of Puntland plays a central role in making this historic transition a reality.
