Jubbaland, Galmudug and Puntland states nominate candidates for Upper House

Jubbaland, Galmudug states and semi-autonomous regional state of Puntland have announced the candidates to be selected for the upcoming Upper House chamber amid recurrent delays to Somalia’s electoral process

Somalia’s Federal Indirect Electoral Implementation team (FIEIT) has extended the period till October 7, and called regional leaders to adhere to the deadlines.

Three states have submitted names of 48  candidates who run for the Upper House seats.

Meanwhile information minister for Southwest, Hassan Abdi Mohamed who spoke to Goobjoog News said the list of Upper House candidates from Southwest has not been submitted to the electoral commission.

More than 14,000 delegates representing Somalia clans will cast their votes for members of the Lower House, while the regional states will select the members of the Upper House.

The Electoral commission has called on the federal government, regional states and international community to take part in facilitating the election process and provide the necessary support in terms of security and election material to ensure successful elections.

The Western-backed government is propped up by a 22,000-strong African Union force, which fights alongside the Somali army against Al-Shabaab fighters.

Al-Shabaab have ramped up their attacks in 2016, carrying out regular suicide bombings and armed attacks on government and civilian targets.