Somali PM Barre: “No Return to Indirect Elections—The People Will Vote”

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has firmly declared an end to the country’s decades-long system of indirect elections. Speaking at a dinner event on Sunday evening in Mogadishu, held in honor of the delegates who participated in the recent National Dialogue Conference, Barre stated that the political power of the Somali people is non-negotiable.

“As the DanQaran government, we fully support all proposals that call for a direct, popular vote-based electoral system,” said Barre. “It is no longer possible to return to indirect elections. Our goal is to restore political authority to the Somali people.”

His comments come as Somalia continues efforts to fundamentally restructure its electoral system. The last one-person, one-vote election was held in 1969; since then, the country has relied on a clan-based power-sharing formula, where elders and traditional leaders select representatives through indirect processes.

Key to a New Era: An Inclusive Electoral Process

Barre noted that the recommendations presented by academics, civil society leaders, and respected elders at the National Dialogue Conference will serve as a blueprint for Somalia’s democratic transition. “You cannot build a state without public participation,” he stated, linking electoral reform to broader national goals such as security, economic development, and long-term political stability.

“We must shift toward a unified electoral process that includes all Somalis. Moving beyond indirect politics means overcoming the divisions and conflicts that have long held our nation back,” Barre emphasized.

Cautious Response from the Opposition

Despite the federal government’s clear commitment, opposition groups have expressed skepticism regarding the timeline and implementation of the reforms. Some regional administrations and opposition leaders argue that political consensus among all stakeholders is crucial to ensure fair and inclusive elections.

The National Dialogue Conference, held in April, brought together former presidents, federal and state officials, and key societal figures. However, Puntland and several opposition parties boycotted the event, citing procedural flaws and what they described as exclusionary practices by the federal government.

The Road to the Ballot: No Turning Back Despite Challenges

The federal government remains steadfast in its commitment to holding direct elections within the current parliamentary cycle. While challenges such as security concerns, technical preparations, and ongoing negotiations with regional states persist, these hurdles must not stand in the way of reflecting the will of the Somali people at the ballot box.

Through direct elections, Somalia has a historic opportunity not only to reform its political system but also to rebuild national unity, restore trust between the state and its citizens, and establish a legitimate and inclusive foundation for governance. This transition will enhance public participation, strengthen societal consensus, and open the door to lasting stability.

The responsibility now lies with all political actors to embrace this moment of transformation and work together to establish a system that reflects the voice of the Somali people through free and direct elections. Somalia’s future depends on a democracy rooted in the power of the people.