MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a historic step toward enhancing electoral integrity, Somalia’s Council of Ministers approved the creation of an Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission during an emergency late-night session on Sunday. The decision underscores the government’s determination to transition the country to a One-Person One-Vote system, marking a significant milestone in Somalia’s democratic journey.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, who led the initiative, described the commission as vital for fostering fair and transparent elections. Speaking after the session, Barre reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring that every Somali citizen has a voice in shaping the nation’s future.

“This commission represents our dedication to democracy and accountability,” Barre stated. “It’s a foundation upon which we will build trust and inclusivity in our electoral process.”

The commission is composed of 18 members, selected for their expertise and unwavering commitment to democratic values:

• Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan
• Sadiq Abshir Graad
• Mohamed Abdirahman Adan
• Yusuf Abdiqadir Mohamed-Baafo
• Omar Abukar Omar
• Farhiyo Mohamed Yusuf
• Dr. Omar Jamaat Mohamed
• Farah Abdi Hassan
• Sahra Diriye Musa
• Abdullahi Salat Yarow
• Mohamed Amin Hassan Abdullahi
• Abdi Adow Mohamed
• Abdishakur Abib Hayir
• Khalid Ibrahim Ismail
• Amina Sh. Osman Mohamed
• Nasir Mohamed Shire
• Abdirahim Abdillahi Shafi
• Mohamed Omar Ismail

The creation of the commission has been widely praised as a bold move toward solidifying Somalia’s electoral infrastructure. It will oversee elections at all levels of government, ensuring transparency and fairness while laying the groundwork for democratic reforms long awaited by the Somali people.However, not everyone is convinced. Opposition leaders have expressed concern over the government’s approach, criticizing what they see as a lack of inclusivity in the decision-making process. Many argue that a One-Person One-Vote system may be unrealistic given Somalia’s current political and security challenges.