Hargeisa(Mogadishu24)-The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC) has officially awarded Certificates of Candidacy to the Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates of the three national parties for the highly anticipated November 13, 2024 election.

This milestone marks the formal start of the election process, with campaigning set to begin next month in October.

The three main political parties—Kulmiye, Waddani, and UCID—will compete in what is expected to be a closely contested race for the presidency. Alongside the presidential race, leaders of newly formed political associations will also seek to secure enough votes to be elevated to full political party status.

The election campaigns are gaining momentum, with parties actively working to attract voters and influential politicians. Daily media appearances feature prominent community members and politicians pledging their support for the different parties and associations.

This election comes after a two-year delay caused by legal disputes. The extended period led some traditional leaders to call for the establishment of a clear legal framework for future elections.

Somaliland’s parliament has since passed legislation to guide the electoral process, setting the stage for the upcoming elections to proceed without further conflict.

All eyes are now on the parties as they prepare to launch their campaigns and vie for the support of the electorate in this crucial election.