Tensions High in Garowe as Opposition Presidential Candidates Reject Parliament List

Garowe(Mogadishu24)-Puntland State'sPresidential candidates have strongly rejected the list of parliament members announced by the committee for electoral disputes and the approval of members of parliament.

In a joint statement issued on Monday, the opposition candidates announced that they will not participate in an election with a “illegitimate” parliament selected by President Deni

“The opposition presidential candidates confirm to the people of Puntland that they do not recognize a list that contradicts the selection and approval process of the House of Representatives members,” the statement read.

“The candidates also declare that they won’t participate in the election with the illegitimate this list,” the statement added.

They warned President Deni against actions that could lead to destruction, conflicts, and political instability within the region, holding him responsible for any tensions that may arise.

The opposition candidates argued that the parliamentary list lacks legitimacy, as previously stated by the chairman of the committee, who left the committee, citing pressure from the presidency to accept a predetermined list.

This statement came hours after the Puntland State Committee on Electoral Disputes and the vetting of Members of Parliament announced the list of new members of the Puntland Parliament on Monday, including the 17 members from SSC-Khatumo region.