Somalia's Leaders Agree on Universal Suffrage Framework as UN Approves Transition Mission

Nov 2, 2024, 09:24 AM

Somalia's leaders have agreed on a framework for universal suffrage, marking a significant step towards implementing one-person, one-vote elections. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized the government's dedication to direct elections, urging the Federal Parliament to approve a new direct elections law within a month, despite massive opposition inside the country and scepticism abroad. The Federal Parliament will forgo its holiday to focus on finalizing election procedures and regulations. Additionally, the UN Security Council has approved a resolution to transition the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) into a new UN Transition Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) by October 31, 2026.