Yesterday, June 28, 2020, Somaliland has witnessed an important step in popular politics and democracy. Two (2) members, representing opposition parties on the National Electoral Commission were approved by the national assembly. We congratulate the parliament of Somaliland for the job well done. This makes NEC complete when added to the first approval of the (3) presidential nominees and (2) Elders.
Participating in competitive politics of Somaliland is not only a strong indicator of democratic progress but an anchoring tool for our country’s democracy, the democratic system and transparent governance of Somaliland’s political process.
CDG applauds the government and the political parties on the opposition wing of Somaliland politics. We congratulate the chairmen of 3 political parties, Elders of this country and executive institution for this land mark election of opposition parties’ representatives. Elected members of Electoral Commission are expected to perform a handsome work in ensuring that transparent, free and fair elections are organized and carried out at all levels for the great benefit of democracy, governance, information and participation of all Somaliland citizens.
As an NGO promoting principles of Democracy, human rights, good governance and capacity building, in Somaliland we are delighted to witness the legacy the current parliament has set after 15 years of reluctance. We are happy to note that as an NGO delivering on democracy, an effective civil society depends on and works strongly with democratic government. However, we strongly know that we all must collaborate well with Administration in Somaliland to empower and mobilize for powerful governance institutions through guidance on democratic principles and processes.
Solid democracy of Somaliland is not a responsibility of only the political parties or the government but the responsibility of all Somalilanders. This approval comes at a time when government and countrymen are waiting for upcoming parliamentary and local elections.
Parliamentary seats are 82 which will be contested for in the next elections. Where if all major parties are open to participation over 1000 Somalilanders will have an opportunity to contest including contestants for the over 400 local administration positions. For CDG this means a lot in building capacity, political participation opportunities opened and debates on a future strong democracy and peace.
Despite the commitment of the government to continue streamlining democracy, it also citizen responsibility to take up the political space for youth, women and other special groups. Over 60% of Somaliland population is made of youth and women. These are very active section of the population which turn up for voting their leaders and them, always have trust in the leaders as everybody realized in the past election.
This 15-35 years old population actively turn up each voting day and it is time you demonstrate your potential as academicians, scholars, business people, member of community to carry out you obligation of taking the opportunity to use the political space. Come out with energy and vigor and make a significant mark in the coming election. Remember always 80% of votes are youth and women and your voice matters to decide the leadership, take leadership and consolidate the democratic achievements of forefathers.
It is important that CDG makes the following recommendations to civic responsibility and administration as we commend the efforts, elders and administration are making to consolidate unity and transparent administration. That democratic actions and good governance not only stimulate social change but also promote solidarity for international recognition of Somaliland, sovereign respect and diplomatic success, peace and stability.
It is time to start speak up in the mature politics designed for our country. It is important for state and private public media to use the time to engage civic communities, promote the voice of women and youth in mature political participation.
The election process has started and we need to demonstrate mature democracy directed to building democratic administration, founded on traditions of our society. Dialogue on key issues affecting the democracy and society. Actually fast tracking the election process not only requires speed and commitment but organized people ready to take the positions and decide on the next good leaders.
Open space and prepare for the race in local and parliament election. We observe here and leaders and citizens need to remember as you well know, that the three consecutive presidents Dahir Rayaale, Ahmed Silanyo and Muse Bihi the current president have worked with one parliament which denies them opportunity to work with dynamic strong political brains for transformation of society and consolidate democracy. It is through regular interval democratic elections that Somaliland can build a strong society, secure, protected and resilient to solve social, political and economic challenges of our society. This not only affects local political but international opportunities for development assistance, support of sovereign democracy and maturation and glooming future leadership.
Capacitation, facilitation and empowering of the responsible organizations and institutions like the National Electoral Commission, law and order institution, security and community policing are important areas for investment that enables peaceful and protected, valid and reliable electoral results.
Sharing information at multilevel stakeholders, facilitation, and capacity building are necessary pillars for trustable election, and identification of the right leaders. Not only does this build trust among civil society, donors and international community but also sympathizers and friends in the diaspora.
Finally the citizen civic obligation of participating in a free and fair election awaits and active discussion and deciding wisely matters in building democracy. Good Leaders are desired for Good Governance and these depend on you. You’re the citizens and the electors of leaders!
THE END.