Mogadishu, Somalia – The Chairman of the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC), Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan, addressed today the challenges faced by the Somali people in fully understanding the one-person, one-vote electoral system, stating that it has been difficult for the public to grasp the system fully.

This statement came during an event where the commission awarded political party registration certificates to six new political parties. The Chairman emphasized the importance of educating the Somali public about the one-person, one-vote system, highlighting that it has been nearly 60 years since Somalia last held such elections.

“You can feel how difficult the path is for the Somali people and the challenges in public awareness. It is hard for the people to fully understand, and we want them to be part of the system and help us,” said the Chairman.

He further noted that the commission is working to ensure that the Somali people fully understand the one-person, one-vote system, emphasizing that public education plays a crucial role in the electoral process.

The Chairman also mentioned that the issuance of political party registration certificates to six new political parties would increase the number of registered political parties to 23, which is a significant step in the country’s political development.

The National Independent Electoral Commission also announced that voter registration for local council elections in Dhuusamareeb, Jowhar, and Baydhabo would begin on the coming Saturday, with plans to follow up with SSC-Khaatumo afterward.