Somalia: Preparation in progress for Lower House elections in Puntland

GAROWE, Puntland- Preparations are underway in Garowe city, regional capital of Puntland state to hold elections for lawmakers representing clans from Puntland in the forthcoming Lower House chamber of Federal Parliament, Garowe Online report.

Early this week, State Indirect Electoral Implementation team (SIEIT) has called regional clans to expedite the process by bringing forward their contenders and delegate (Electoral College) who will vote for the candidates competing for the seats of the Lower House chamber.

Garowe city is set to host the ballot for the Lower House elections, as the first phase of the voting process will kick start on Saturday with the selection of 12 candidates. The city has witnessed in the past period the influx of many parliamentarian aspirants all aiming to secure the seats.   

Despite the suspension of the registration of delegates for some clans by Puntland’s electoral dispute resolution body due to internal conflicts between the clans, Puntland’s SIEIT has announced it will continue with the process and elections as planned. 

However, according to the revised timetable of the electoral process endorsed by leaders of Somali government and regional states, parliamentary election was set to take place from October 23 to November 10.

This comes amid concerns from public and international community over the recurrent delays to meet deadlines of the ongoing electoral process scheduled to conclude in less than 5 weeks.  

GAROWEONLINE