Somalia Vows to Stick to One-Person, One-Vote Plan Amid Stalled Talks

MOGADISHU, Somalia  — Somalia’s government reaffirmed its commitment to holding a one-person, one-vote election, even as talks with the opposition-aligned Future Council ended without agreement.

The state minister for Foreign Minister Ali Balcad said the government remains open to dialogue, technical compromises on the electoral process, and broad national consultations. However, he stressed that the direction toward a direct popular vote is “sacred” and non-negotiable.

“The process of Somalia’s democratization cannot be postponed indefinitely,” Balcad said in response to a statement from the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), which expressed disappointment that the parties failed to reach an agreement but welcomed the commitment to continue discussions.

The latest round of negotiations between the federal government and the Future Council concluded without producing a timeline or consensus on the electoral framework, raising concerns over the country’s preparations for a nationwide vote.

Balcad reiterated that the government is committed to maintaining an open dialogue, but insisted that the principle of a direct vote is essential to Somalia’s democratic progress.

GAROWE ONLINE