The Somaliland National Electoral Commission (NEC), established in 2001, has been at the forefront of Somaliland’s journey toward democratic governance, ensuring the organization and oversight of all significant electoral activities, including presidential, parliamentary, local council elections, and referendums. Currently, operating under Law No. 91/2023, NEC first marked its position with the constitutional referendum in December 2001, which ratified the national constitution and laid the groundwork for subsequent democratic practices. This was followed by the first local council elections in December 2002, which marked the beginning of grassroots political participation and decentralized governance. In April 2003, NEC oversaw Somaliland’s inaugural presidential election, a landmark event that set precedents for the peaceful transfer of power. The first parliamentary election in September 2005 further solidified democratic governance by establishing a representative legislative body through free and fair elections.
In 2021, Somaliland held its long-awaited parliamentary and local council elections, marking a significant step in democratic governance. The elections saw high voter turnout, peaceful conduct, and the opposition parties gaining a majority in the House of Representatives, reinforcing Somaliland's commitment to democracy and transparency.
Your Voice, Your Vote: Shaping 2024's
Leadership Landscape
In 2024, Somaliland's citizens will face critical choices in the Presidential and Political Party Elections, determining the leaders who will steer their national and international agendas. These elections are crucial for shaping the country's future leadership and political landscape.
Somaliland is gearing up for its next Presidential Election, where voters will elect the head of state for the coming term. This crucial event allows citizens to choose their leader who will represent them on the national and international stage.
Explore MoreIn the upcoming Party Elections, the focus is on determining which political organizations will be officially recognized. Although currently, 10 organizations are participating, only three will be selected to become official parties, based on voter support and electoral performance.
Explore MoreThe Somaliland National Electoral Commission (SLNEC) conducts various elections, including Presidential, Representatives, Local Council, and National Parties Elections. Each type plays a crucial role in promoting fair representation and democratic governance, guided by principles of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability.
1. ReferendumsOn May 31, 2001, Somaliland held its first universal suffrage election, approving the national constitution with 97.10% support. This marked a shift from clan-based decision-making to modern democratic principles, setting a precedent for future elections.
2. Presidential ElectionsSomaliland's journey to democratic presidential elections is a study in electoral evolution. NEC organizes elections for the president and vice president, ensuring leadership accountability and peaceful transitions of power. The first presidential election took place on 14th April 2003, the second on 26th June 2010, and the third on 13th November 2017. The next presidential election is scheduled for 13th November 2024.
3. Parliamentary/Representation ElectionsSomaliland's Representatives Election, held every five years for 82 seats, combines modern democracy with traditional practices, using advanced technology and clan consultation to maintain stability in this unrecognized but functioning state.
4. Local Council ElectionsSomaliland's local council elections demonstrate grassroots democracy at its finest, showcasing how determination and deep-rooted democratic values can build sophisticated electoral systems, evidenced by three successful elections since 2002 combining local governance with broader democratic processes.
5. Political Party ElectionsThe Electoral Commission conducts political party elections every ten years ensuring a multiparty system that fosters political diversity and competition which significantly reduce social frangmentation and internecine conflicts.
SLNEC is committed to a transparent and secure electoral process. Every vote is accurately counted, and every voter is supported, ensuring a fair, inclusive, and credible election for all.
