Candidates’ Union issues 5 points indicating that free elections will not take place in the country

The Union of Candidates held a meeting in Mogadishu today to analysis the general situation in the country, in particular the conducting of the scheduled elections, with the council issuing a statement expressing concern, highlighting five points which they said would not be apparent if left unchecked for free and fair elections in the country.

“The council is deeply concerned that free and fair elections will not take place in the country on time, based on clear indications of the major challenges facing the country’s elections, including:”

1. Lack of management of the electoral process in Somaliland, which has led to the formation of two electoral commissions.

2 – The situation in Gedo region has not yet been resolved to the satisfaction of all parties.

3 – The political and security challenges in Hirshabelle region  have not yet been resolved to ensure free and fair elections.

4 – That the election finances have not yet been set aside with the country having now entered election period.

5 – Very low preparations for the election of the members of the Upper House representatives, which cast doubt on whether the elections can happen on time.

“The Council urges the Federal government and Federal Member States to quickly address these challenges without delay, and to be prepared for any obstacles that may hamper the implementation of free and fair elections in time, “the statement read.

The council concluded by saying in it’s statement that it was concerned about the interference of outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo in the country’s electoral process.