Sunday December 15, 2019
GAROWE (HOL) - Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni has expressed doubts over possibility of universal elections next year calling on the federal government to come out clear on the matter.
Speaking at an event to launch the work plan for the State Electoral agency, Deni stated that it is clear that Somalia could not hold one-man-one-vote.
"With only one year remaining ahead of the elections, we have heard nothing (from the government). If there is a plan to hold universal suffrage, then let us see, but if we see we are to use the previous model then let us come together for discussion,” the Puntland leader said. "I advise the interests of the country to be focused carefully,” Deni added.
He urged the leaders of the federal government to hold inclusive consultations to discuss the modality of the country's next election.Deni’s remarks come amid concerns among various stakeholders that Somalia may not realise the one-person-one-vote milestone given the remaining time.
Parliamentary elections are expected to take place as from October next culminating into presidential elections February 2021.