Somalia Moves Toward Universal Suffrage After Decades of Indirect Voting

Somalia's cabinet approved a bill to establish universal suffrage, ending decades of indirect voting if confirmed by parliament. The move aims to allow all citizens to vote directly despite significant security and logistical challenges posed by an Islamist insurgency and weak state structures.

Somalia's cabinet has approved a bill aiming to return the country to universal suffrage for the first time in decades, pending parliamentary approval. Until now, the country has relied on indirect voting due to security concerns and political instability.

Previously slated for a 2020 implementation, direct voting faced numerous delays due to political disputes and ongoing insecurity. 'The election rules will lead the country to one person one vote nationally for the first time after 55 years,' stated government spokesperson Farhan Jimale.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, elected by lawmakers in May 2022, announced the policy last year. However, significant logistical and security hurdles remain, particularly with the militant group al Shabaab controlling large parts of the country.

(With inputs from agencies.)