Somalia: Security measures in place for the first direct elections since 1969

Somalia is under heightened security alert and intensive field operations as preparations are underway for its first direct elections under the "one person, one vote" system in over six decades. This historic step represents a serious attempt by the Federal Government to move beyond transitional regimes and return to a fully democratic path, amidst significant security and logistical challenges that require a concerted national effort.

Historical background: The end of the tribal system era

To understand the significance of this event, we must go back to 1969, the year of the last direct democratic elections in the country before the military coup led by Siad Barre, which subsequently plunged the nation into a spiral of civil war and instability. For decades, Somalia relied on the clan-based 4.5 power-sharing system to form its constitutional institutions and select its leaders. Under this system, clan elders choose members of parliament, who in turn elect the president. While this system has, at times, helped to halt the fighting, it has remained an obstacle to genuine popular representation and has deprived ordinary Somalis of their right to direct voting.

Security challenges and insurance strategy

The Somali authorities recognize that the transition to direct universal suffrage carries significant security risks, particularly given the ongoing threats from the extremist group al-Shabaab, which seeks to undermine state authority and obstruct any democratic process. Therefore, security forces have developed comprehensive plans to secure polling stations and protect voters, as well as international and local observers. These plans include deploying special police and military units in key areas, reinforcing checkpoints in the capital, Mogadishu, and other major cities, and maintaining close coordination with international partners and peacekeeping forces to ensure a safe environment that allows citizens to cast their votes without fear.

The importance of the event and its expected impact

The importance of these elections extends beyond the domestic political sphere to encompass regional and international dimensions. Domestically, the success of this experiment will bolster the legitimacy of the federal government and increase citizens' trust in state institutions, thus contributing to the marginalization of tribalism in favor of a unified national identity. Internationally, Somalia's success in holding direct elections will send a powerful message to the international community and donors about the Somali state's recovery, potentially opening the door wide to foreign investment and sustainable development programs, accelerating the process of debt relief, and enabling Somalia to once again become an active and stable player in the Horn of Africa.