Somalia’s Opposition Forum has unveiled a new electoral proposal aimed at introducing nationwide one-person, one-vote elections while preserving the country’s longstanding 4.5 power-sharing formula.

In a statement, the opposition said the proposed model seeks to reconcile direct public elections with Somalia’s current political and clan-based power-sharing realities. The plan outlines a framework for holding elections across the country through clearly defined seat-based constituencies, known as “SEEJO” or Seat Constituencies.

Under the proposal, parliamentary seats would be allocated according to constituencies linked to clan representation under the 4.5 system. Both voters and candidates would be required to register and participate within the seat constituencies associated with their respective clans.

The proposal also calls for the establishment of independent electoral commissions at both federal and Federal Member State levels. These commissions would be responsible for administering, supervising and ensuring the credibility of the electoral process.

A key component of the plan is the introduction of biometric voter registration nationwide. The opposition said such a system would help prevent duplicate registrations, improve voter identification and strengthen public trust in the electoral process.

The proposal further recommends that voter registration be conducted simultaneously across the country, followed by a single-day national vote.

To enhance transparency, candidates would be allowed to appoint agents at polling and vote-counting centres. These representatives would monitor voting and counting procedures, raise complaints where necessary, and receive official polling-station results.

The plan also assigns the Supreme Court the authority to adjudicate electoral disputes. According to the proposal, any complaints relating to official results must be submitted within 48 hours of their announcement.

The Opposition Forum said the initiative is intended to promote political inclusivity, accountability, transparency and wider public participation in Somalia’s elections.

The proposal is expected to feed into ongoing political discussions over Somalia’s electoral model, amid continuing disagreements between the federal government and opposition groups over the country’s future election framework.