Dhusamareb, Galmudug – Galmudug regional state authorities have rejected efforts by the ruling Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP) to set up party offices and appoint representatives in districts across the state, deeming the action illegal and contrary to political party regulations.
The contested appointments, made on Sunday, designated Abdimanan Mohamed Osman as JSP representative for Galkayo in Mudug region and Ali Ahmed for Adado in Galgadud region.
Galmudug’s Ministry of Interior stated the appointments lack legal foundation and highlighted that the state is completing guidelines to regulate political parties’ involvement in elections, particularly at the local council level. The ministry promised to probe those involved, labeling the moves “unlawful.”
The ruling party, headed by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and featuring key members like Galmudug President Ahmed Abdi Kariye Qoorqoor, faces increased examination over the appointments amid claims that JSP seeks to manipulate the election.
Political parties intending to compete in forthcoming elections must await endorsement of formal procedures by the Galmudug Ministry of Interior and the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC).
Earlier, the contested electoral body, NIEBC, urged Federal Member States to permit registered political parties to establish offices in their areas.
