Historical Democratic Milestone Achieved in Dhusamareb as 89 New Galmudug State Lawmakers Sworn In After Direct Vote

89 new Galmudug State lawmakers sworn in after direct vote during an official inauguration ceremony in Dhusamareb, marking a historic transition from traditional indirect selections toward direct universal suffrage elections. Organized by the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, the formal oath of office was administered to the newly elected assembly members following the certification of the poll results by the Federal Supreme Court. Senior electoral commissioners, regional leadership, and civic representatives gathered in the regional capital to witness the formal seating of the state’s legislative chamber.

The inauguration of the regional legislature follows a September rerun poll ordered after judicial review nullified an earlier electoral exercise over administrative non-compliance. According to official electoral commission records, more than 149,000 registered voters cast ballots across multiple administrative districts, electing representatives from twelve registered political organizations. The certified returns delivered a majority to the Justice and Unity Party, which secured 67 of the 89 legislative seats. Mohamed Sheikh Ahmed assumed the role of interim speaker as the oldest member of the chamber, in accordance with established legislative procedures, to preside over initial parliamentary proceedings.

The sworn-in assembly now moves directly into its next constitutional responsibilities, beginning with candidate registration and voting for the permanent parliamentary speakership bureau. Once the parliamentary leadership is established, the House of Representatives will hear candidate speeches and proceed to elect the regional state president and vice president. Regional election administrators emphasized that adherence to the official timetable remains vital for establishing governance stability and maintaining institutional continuity.

While the completion of the direct vote has been welcomed as a major step forward for popular participation, political observers note that addressing grievances raised by excluded political groups remains necessary for long-term reconciliation. Several civic organizations have urged the newly seated legislature to prioritize institutional building, economic growth, and regional security cooperation. 89 new Galmudug State lawmakers sworn in after direct vote, cementing a significant milestone in Somalia’s broader effort to institutionalize direct democratic elections and strengthen governance frameworks across all federal member states.