HARGEISA, Somaliland (Horn Post) – President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi “Irro” held a high-level meeting on Saturday with the National Electoral Commission (NEC) to accelerate the implementation of a nationwide modern voter registration system, a move officials say is aimed at strengthening democratic governance and enhancing public confidence in future elections.
The meeting focused on advancing the country’s transition to a technology-driven voter registration process designed to improve the accuracy, transparency and credibility of Somaliland’s electoral system.
During the discussions, the National Electoral Commission presented President Irro with a comprehensive implementation roadmap, including operational procedures, technical guidelines and a nationwide timetable for rolling out the new voter registration exercise across all regions and districts of Somaliland.
According to the commission, the new registration system will utilize modern digital technologies to establish a secure, transparent and internationally recognized voter database. Officials said the initiative is expected to improve the integrity of voter records while making it easier for eligible citizens to register and participate in elections.
“The modern voter registration system is designed to deliver a secure, transparent and accurate electoral register that meets international standards and strengthens citizens’ participation in Somaliland’s democratic process,” the commission told the president during the meeting.
President Irro praised the Electoral Commission for its ongoing efforts to modernize Somaliland’s electoral infrastructure and encouraged commissioners to continue working toward an inclusive registration process that reaches every eligible voter across the country.
“A modern voter registration system is the foundation for strengthening democracy, protecting citizens’ constitutional rights and ensuring free, fair and credible elections,” President Irro said.
The president also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to providing the financial resources required to implement the nationwide voter registration exercise, underscoring the administration’s support for the commission’s preparations.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to strengthen coordination among relevant institutions and accelerate the administrative and technical preparations necessary for the successful implementation of the new registration system.
Officials said the adoption of advanced digital technology is expected to reinforce Somaliland’s long-standing reputation for conducting peaceful, credible and democratic elections in the Horn of Africa.
The planned voter registration initiative is considered a key component of Somaliland’s broader electoral reform agenda, aimed at improving election management, increasing voter confidence and ensuring future polls are conducted in line with international democratic standards.
Pictures of the Meeting
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
Hargeisa, Somaliland
