The Somaliland Electoral Commission put an end to the long-awaited election schedule by releasing it on Monday evening. They announced that the presidential elections are scheduled to take place on 13th November 2024, finally providing clarity after numerous previous delays.
In a statement issued by the Electoral Commission, the National Parties election is slated for December 28, 2023. Only three political parties will be permitted to participate, and those selected will receive a party certificate valid for ten years.
"That the elections of the political parties will be held on 28th December 2023. In order to obtain certificates for the next 10 years, three eligible political parties will be selected in accordance with Article 5, Chapter 3 (j) of the provisions of the National Electoral Commission,” the statement read.
Additionally, the Commission announced that the Presidential election will take place on November 13, 2024. This decision extends President Musa Bihi's term, as previously endorsed by the senate.
The statement further stated, "That the presidential and vice-presidential elections will be held one month before the end of the current president and vice president's term, in accordance with Article 89, Chapter 2 of the Constitution of Somaliland, which is 13th November 2024. This is in line with the extension of term passed by the senate."
The Committee also appealed to international stakeholders for cooperation in facilitating the technical aspects of the electoral process to ensure adherence to the schedule.
The release of the election schedule by the Somaliland Elections Committee might escalate the political tensions within the region. The opposition strongly opposed favoring the party elections and insisted on holding the presidential election immediately after the President's term ends. However, the senate and the Electoral Commission supported President Musa Bihi, leading to the extension of his term by another year.
The prolonged delay of the election in Somaliland has raised concerns and resulted in a political deadlock, escalating into armed conflicts. The repeated postponements have negatively impacted regional stability, with Las Anod being particularly affected due to the lack of progress in conducting the elections.
