Somaliland Extends Parliamentary Mandates by 27 Months Amid Election Delays
Hargeisa, April 29 – Somaliland’s House of Elders has approved a controversial 27-month extension for the mandates of the House of Representatives and local councils, pushing the next elections to 2026. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, has sparked debate over democratic accountability and institutional transparency in the self-declared republic.
Overwhelming Approval Despite Criticism
In a session attended by 72 of the chamber’s 82 members, 71 voted in favor of the extension, which will take effect on July 7, 2026—when the current terms were originally set to expire. The upper house cited constitutional provisions and consultations with electoral authorities, emphasizing the need for “credible and coordinated” elections amid logistical and technical delays.
However, the move has drawn sharp criticism from governance watchdogs and opposition figures. Guleid Ahmed Jama, director of the Centre for Rule of Law and Good Governance, called the extension “unconstitutional” and warned it could erode public trust.
“The Guurti [House of Elders] is essentially rewarding itself with extra time in power,” Jama told reporters. “This undermines Somaliland’s democratic progress and sets a dangerous precedent.”
Self-Extension Raises Eyebrows
Under Somaliland’s constitution, any extension granted to the House of Representatives automatically tacks an additional year onto the House of Elders’ term—meaning the Guurti’s own mandate could stretch by 39 months. Critics argue this creates a conflict of interest, as lawmakers effectively prolong their own tenure.
“This is a case of ‘you scratch my back, I scratch yours,’” Jama said. “The public is rightfully angry. The president promised no term extensions—now he must act on that pledge.”
Limited Media Access Fuels Transparency Concerns
The closed-door nature of the session has also raised red flags. Independent journalists were barred from the parliamentary compound, with only state-affiliated media permitted inside. Observers say the lack of scrutiny further fuels skepticism about the decision’s legitimacy.
Mixed Reactions: Stability vs. Democracy
Supporters of the extension argue it prevents rushed elections and allows adequate preparation. Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has held multiple peaceful elections but has faced increasing delays in recent years.
Yet opponents warn the lengthy postponement risks weakening democratic norms. Social media has been flooded with discontent, with many citizens calling the move a “power grab.”
What’s Next?
The government has yet to issue a formal response, though earlier statements suggested a preference for shorter, more flexible timelines tied to electoral readiness. The decision could reshape Somaliland’s political landscape, potentially aligning future parliamentary and presidential elections.
As tensions simmer, the international community and local activists will be watching closely to see whether the breakaway region upholds its reputation for stability—or if the extended mandates deepen political divisions.
— Reported by Nexio News
