Issue No. 756

The Kenya International Election Observer Mission has released its preliminary report on Somaliland’s 2024 presidential and political party elections, praising the overall organisation, peaceful conduct, and transparency of the process. The delegation, invited by the Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC), spent 6 days evaluating activities before, during and after the elections. Their findings, rooted in the African Union Declaration on the Principles Governing Democratic Elections, offer an assessment of the polls and constructive recommendations for their improvement.

The NEC was commended for its meticulous preparation, which included developing a clear election roadmap in collaboration with political parties and presidential candidates. This roadmap clarified processes and roles, fostering stakeholder confidence and trust. Efforts to promote inclusivity were evident in arrangements for vulnerable groups—including the elderly, pregnant women and nursing mothers—to ensure they could vote with ease. The NEC also engaged civil society organisations like SONSAF in pre-election consultations, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and responsiveness to public concerns.

Kenyan mission observers monitored over 60 polling stations across key cities, including Hargeisa, Berbera, and Borama. Polling stations opened on time, were adequately staffed, and operated smoothly overall. Voting was orderly, and NEC staff displayed professionalism in managing operations and addressing queries. Measures to safeguard the process, such as ensuring voter secrecy and limiting multiple voting, were evident. Party agents, observers and media representatives provided an additional layer of accountability and transparency throughout the election.

Despite these successes, the mission identified some areas for improvement. Biometric verification systems frequently malfunctioned, leading to delays and inefficiencies during registration and voting. Accessibility for persons with disabilities was inconsistent; polling stations often lacked ramps or other features to accommodate voters with mobility challenges. Insufficient lighting in some polling stations also posed challenges for voters and staff.

Security of ballot boxes emerged as another concern, with reports of improperly sealed or fitted lids potentially compromising ballot integrity. While the absence of violence or intimidation at polling stations was a positive outcome, the presence of armed personnel inside polling areas was flagged as potentially intimidating.

The Kenyan mission also highlighted several best practices that enhanced the credibility and success of the election. Among these was the establishment of a Women’s Situation Room and Early Warning and Response Mechanisms, which monitored election-related violence and human rights violations, enabling swift responses to potential issues. Another noteworthy measure was the regulation of vehicular movement on election day. By issuing special registration plates, the NEC reduced congestion and facilitated the smooth operation of polling activities.

Vote counting followed clear and consistent procedures, with party agents and observers overseeing the process. The NEC allowed all voters in line at the time of closing to cast their ballots, and polling staff managed delays effectively. However, clearer communication with voters regarding assigned polling locations could have reduced confusion and improved the voting experience.

The Kenyan observer mission commended the collaborative efforts of political parties, civil society organisations, and security agencies, which created a conducive environment for free and fair elections. The NEC’s professionalism and Somalilanders’ enthusiastic participation reinforced the country’s democratic resilience and commitment to peaceful transitions of power.

Looking ahead, the Kenyan mission recommended addressing technical issues such as malfunctioning biometric systems, inadequate accessibility at polling stations, problems with lighting, and insufficient ballot security measures. Public awareness campaigns to inform voters about their polling locations and procedures were also suggested to streamline future elections.

Somaliland’s progress in strengthening its democratic institutions was commended, noting that the 2024 elections showcased its ability to conduct credible and transparent polls. These achievements set a strong foundation for continued democratic development. The Kenyan mission expressed optimism about Somaliland’s future, urging stakeholders to build on these achievements to ensure greater inclusivity, efficiency and transparency in upcoming polls. 

Reports from other observer missions closely aligned with these findings are linked below:

• Kenya Election Observer Mission Preliminary Report
• Report of the Brenthurst Foundation Observer Mission
• Election Observation Report of the U.S. Observer Team