Somalia’s political landscape is set for a significant shift as leaders have agreed to conduct local government elections in June 2025, followed by parliamentary elections in September 2025.
This decision was announced in a communique from the National Consultative Council (NCC) on Wednesday, marking a critical step toward restoring democratic processes in a country long plagued by political instability.
The NCC emphasized the necessity of fair elections grounded in a multi-party system, enabling Somali citizens to directly elect their representatives. To facilitate this, the council agreed that legislation covering elections, multi-party systems, electoral commissions, and electoral boundaries should be presented to the federal parliament without delay.
The federal leaders and the heads of three regional states called for the swift establishment of the Independent National Commission for Elections and Boundaries.
They highlighted the commission’s role in creating a comprehensive timetable that would guide the electoral process in accordance with national laws, aiming to avoid the pitfalls of previous elections marred by violence and controversy.
The NCC meeting was attended by key figures, including President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, and the mayors and regional presidents of Hirshabelle, Southwest, and Galmudug. However, the absence of leaders from Jubbaland and Puntland cast a shadow over the proceedings.
These two regions have been at odds with the federal government, particularly Puntland’s President Said Deni, who has expressed grievances since the current administration took office in 2022.
Jubbaland leader Ahmed Madobe’s early departure from the meeting further underscored the divisions within Somalia’s political elite. He left after demanding the inclusion of Puntland and Khatumo in discussions, arguing that their participation was essential for the legitimacy of the upcoming elections.
The dissent among political leaders has prompted concerns about the overall credibility of the electoral process. Opposition figures, including former President Mohamed Farmaajo and former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, criticized the NCC’s communique, alleging it failed to achieve consensus and did not reflect the views of all stakeholders.
Their objections highlight a broader struggle within Somali politics, where divisions can significantly impact governance and stability.