Somalia to Introduce Direct Universal Suffrage in 2024

Somalia is poised to embark on a transformative journey towards establishing a direct one-person-one-vote democracy by 2024. This ambitious plan seeks to replace the existing electoral structure and address the challenges that have hindered previous attempts at achieving direct universal suffrage.

Aiming for Direct Democracy by 2024

Somalia is committed to instituting a direct one-person-one-vote democracy by the year 2024. This ambitious goal demonstrates the country’s determination to empower its citizens and ensure their active participation in the electoral process.

Early Steps: Passing Direct Universal Suffrage in 2019

The first significant step towards direct universal suffrage in Somalia was taken in 2019 when it was passed by the Somali legislature. This marked an important milestone in the country’s democratic journey, laying the groundwork for further reforms.

Overcoming Challenges: Political Division and Internal Conflict

Somalia has faced challenges in achieving direct universal suffrage in the past. Political division and internal conflict have hindered previous attempts. However, the country remains committed to overcoming these obstacles and forging a more inclusive and representative electoral system.

Reforming the Electoral Structure: Removal of the Premier Position

As part of the electoral reforms, the current Somali electoral structure is undergoing significant changes. The position of Premier is being eliminated, making way for a new presidential-based system. This shift aims to streamline the decision-making process and enhance accountability.

Key Milestones: Local, Regional, and National Elections

Under the new system, the first local council elections are scheduled to take place on June 30, 2024. This will be followed by the highly anticipated regional and national elections on November 30, 2024. These landmark elections will mark a crucial step towards realizing the vision of a direct one-person-one-vote democracy.

Freedom House Assessment: Somalia’s Democracy Rating

According to Freedom House, an organization that evaluates democracies globally, Somalia’s democracy is currently rated as “not free,” with an overall score of eight out of 100. In particular, the electoral process received a rating of zero out of four in 2022, indicating room for improvement in ensuring free and fair elections.

Month: Current Affairs - May, 2023

Category: International / World Current Affairs