Guiding Principles for the 2016 Electoral Process
The Electoral Process for 2016 shall be through a broader and more inclusive process that has been accepted by existing and emerging Member States. The process should ensure an outcome that is representative of Somalia society today (in terms of geography and demographics). Members appointed through the process shall satisfy clear, agreed criteria.
1. Shall be through a broader and more inclusive process that has been accepted by existing and emerging Member States. The process should ensure an outcome that is representative of Somalia society today (in terms of geography and demographics). Members appointed through the process shall satisfy clear, agreed criteria.
2. Shall demonstrate alignment with spirit of Provisional Federal Constitution.
3. Shall promote and ensure the participation of women and minority groups.
4. Shall promote the participation of Political Parties to the extent the developments in the Political Party system allow.
5. Shall promote national unity and, to the extent possible, a uniform process across all regions.
6. Shall be realistic with reference to resources available, technical capacity, and the security environment.
7. Shall be transparent, accountable and promote public confidence.
8. Shall include a suitable provision for an accessible complaints and appeals procedure.
9. Shall take full account of the need for the Federal Parliament of Somalia to reflect and represent the territorial integrity of Somalia.
10. Shall do no harm in terms of promoting activities that risk escalating conflict or undoing advances that have been achieved so far in the state building and democratization process.
Remark: All these principles are reflected in the agreement reached by the Executive Government and the Parliament on the following:
- ‘One person/one vote’ is not a nationally viable option at this point.
- The formation of a Consultative Conference for political dialogue among the federal and regional leaders, Parliamentarians, civil society as well as other stakeholders.
- Call a consultative conference which is inclusive of representatives of all Somali groups within this year.