President Said Abdullahi Deni insists that the regional state of Puntland will hold direct elections on time.
The Puntland leader offered this assurance in the face of growing protests and skepticism by the opposition.
Speaking on Friday night, President Deni reiterated that the election of regional leaders would be through direct polls.
His comments contradict the recent calls by opposition politicians.
The opposition politicians have been calling for the use of an indirect system to elect regional leaders. They prefer a system where clan elders select lawmakers.
In his press briefing, Deni added that he would not be extending his term in office.