On 25 October, Puntland will hold its first-ever local council elections based on political parties rather than clan affiliations, allowing every citizen a vote. This pilot project, supported by the international community, is a significant milestone in Puntland’s democratic evolution and, if successful, could be replicated in the region’s remaining 47 districts. President Said Abdullahi Deni and the Transitional Puntland Electoral Commission (TPEC) have demonstrated strong political will and strategic leadership, ensuring smooth preparations despite challenges. However, the process has not been without controversy, including opposition accusations of state resource misuse and concerns over the expired mandate of the Supreme Court judges. The absence of a Constitutional Court also raises questions about how electoral disputes will be resolved. Unresolved issues remain, such as the drawing of electoral boundaries and ensuring minority clan representation. Without mechanisms to protect smaller clans, the new system risks reinforcing old hierarchies.
Somalia faces a critical political crisis as President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo defies the Provisional Constitution, undermines federalism, and threatens the nation’s fragile democracy. International observers warn that Farmaajo’s unconstitutional actions, including the illegal extension of his mandate and consolidation of power, risk plunging Somalia back into civil war. The UN Security Council and African Union are urged to impose targeted sanctions, including travel bans and asset freezes, against Farmaajo, NISA Chief Fahad Yasin, Speaker Mohamed Mursal, and key regime officials. Sanctions under UN resolutions 1844(2008) and 2002(2011) could prevent further destabilization, curb financial misappropriation, and affirm international commitment to Somalia’s constitutional order. The African Union’s Malabo Protocol (2014) also supports decisive action against unconstitutional changes of government. Immediate measures would reinforce Somalia’s opposition forces, provide a peaceful path for political transition, and signal that violations of democracy and rule of law will not be tolerated. This is a pivotal moment for Somalia’s future, offering the international community an opportunity to prevent escalation, restore constitutional governance, and protect the Somali people from renewed conflict and instability.