The Transitional Puntland Electoral Commission (TPEC) confirmed that this state-wide direct poll for local government positions is a significant moment for the region. A remarkable total of 3,775 candidates are vying for seats as local councilors, reflecting the enthusiastic participation of Puntland’s population. The voter registration process successfully enrolled over 387,000 individuals, with women making up an impressive 49.7% of the registered voters.

Unlike the neighbouring Somaliland, Puntland has granted internally displaced persons the right to vote and actively engage in the political campaign leading up to the elections. This progressive decision showcases Puntland’s commitment to inclusivity and democratic principles.

A monumental day for the entire Somali nation

Commenting on the opening of the polling stations on Thursday, Abdirizak Ahmed Said, Chairman of TPEC, called upon all registered voters to exercise their civic duty, emphasizing the profound significance of this election for the entire country.

"Today, Puntland etches its name in history, symbolizing a monumental day not only for our region but for the entire Somali nation,” declared TPEC Chairman Said.

Among the enthusiastic voters was 62-year-old Ahmed Adan Omar, who walked for over an hour to reach the polling station in Boodaal, located in the Gumbax district in Bari [east] region. Omar expressed hope that this election would empower him and fellow locals to bring about positive change in their district.

"When we elect our city council leaders, we can hold them accountable. We have the right to question how they spend our tax money and what services they provide us. This is not just an election; it is the reclamation of our freedom,” Omar passionately stated in an interview.

Farther east in the coastal town of Murcanyo, residents formed orderly lines, segregated by gender, as they eagerly waited to cast their votes shortly after 5 am on Thursday.

"I am thrilled today because I have never witnessed such an event,” exclaimed 25-year-old Halima Mohamed. "I was born during the civil war, and I am grateful that I am queuing today to exercise my right to vote. Whoever wins will be my leader.”

Despite the positive atmosphere, the election faced a setback in the Puntland capital, Garowe, as armed gunmen supported by local opposition politicians blocked roads, preventing locals from accessing polling stations and exercising their democratic rights.

Speaking from the port city of Bosaso after casting his vote, Puntland’s Interior Minister, Abdi Farah Said, announced the suspension of voting in Garowe city to avoid violence. Minister Said held opposition politicians responsible for mobilizing clan militias with the intent of disrupting the electoral process.

"We made every effort to negotiate with them [opposition members], but they adamantly rejected all proposals,” Minister Said expressed with disappointment.

Additionally, the federal government of Somalia has faced accusations of sabotaging the Puntland elections. Claims of arming local militias and providing funding to opposition figures opposing the poll have further strained relations between Puntland and the central government in Mogadishu. Earlier this month, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s remarks hinted at potential destruction for Puntland within 24 days, culminating in a skirmish in Garowe on May 16 which resulted the death of at least three people.

Nevertheless, Minister Abdi Farah Said highlighted Puntland’s victory in conducting the election peacefully, asserting that it was a clear embarrassment for the federal government in Mogadishu.

Established in 1998 as a semi-autonomous region in the northeast of Somalia, Puntland has managed to maintain relative peace and stability since the outbreak of the Somali civil war in 1991. Renowned for its oil-rich resources, the region has developed its own constitution, and today’s elections represent another step forward in its democratic progress.