Garowe (WDN)— In a move that has caught many political observers off guard, Puntland has announced a hands-off approach to the selection of members of Somalia’s Federal Parliament, becoming the first Federal Member State (FMS) to directly respond to long-standing demands from opposition groups and citizens.

The decision marks a notable departure from entrenched practices, where regional administrations have often played a decisive role in shaping parliamentary representation. By signaling a willingness to step aside, President Deni is indicating a readiness to recalibrate the balance of power in the electoral process, an unexpected gesture in Somalia’s highly contested political environment.

Analysts say the move could have a ripple effect. If other Federal Member States follow suit, it may help restore a measure of credibility to the upcoming indirect which remain the most viable option under current conditions.

A nationwide one-person, one-vote (OPO) election, while widely supported in principle, is still considered unfeasible in much of the country due to persistent insecurity and logistical constraints. In that context, improving the integrity of the indirect model has become an urgent priority.

Puntland’s decision, though limited in scope, introduces a new dynamic into the electoral conversation, one that challenges other regional administrations to reconsider their own roles.

Whether this unexpected shift marks the beginning of broader reform or remains an isolated development will depend largely on whether Puntland’s plan proves to be more than rhetoric, reflecting a genuine commitment and on how other stakeholders respond in the critical weeks ahead.

WardheerNews