This archive report was first published on 5 July 2021.
On July 5, 2021, Somalia announced a significant move to encourage more women to participate in the country's upcoming elections. The National Consultative Council, a body comprising the Prime Minister and five federal states, has decided to reduce the registration fees for women candidates.
According to Prime Minister Hussein Roble, women aspirants at all levels will pay half the official registration fees. This means that female parliamentary candidates will pay $20,000, compared to the $40,000 required by the National Electoral Commission for Senate hopefuls or $15,000 for the Lower House, as opposed to $30,000.
President Mohamed Farmaajo's government has been criticized for its handling of the electoral process, which was initially set to be completed by February. However, the President's attempt to extend his term was met with opposition from within and outside Somalia.
As the country prepares for the elections, several leaders have expressed interest in running for the presidency. These include President Farmaajo, former presidents Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Sheikh Sharif Ahmed, and ex-Prime Minister Hassan Khaire, who are seen as frontrunners.
Analysts have noted that the clan-based system will play a significant role in the elections, with clan elders influencing the choice of delegates. However, candidates will also need to spend big to sway MPs and campaign around the country, whose road infrastructure is still broken.
Despite the challenges, Somalia's security could become an important issue ahead of the elections, especially after Al-Shabaab threatened to derail the polls plan. The country also needs at least $50 million to run the elections, which is likely to come from donors.
