Local government elections in South West to kick off soon-civil society

Voting for officials representing the Local Government of Southwest State is expected soon following the recent approval of Laws for local government elections in the region.

Speaking to Goobjoog News, the chairperson for the civil societies umbrella (SOSWENSA) in Southwest Abdi Adow Ahmed said the body had started awareness campaigns among residents ahead of the poll.

“They [residents] need a second awareness campaign since the last time such an exercise took place was in 2007,” said Abdi.

South West state parliament endorsed the electoral law early June after rejecting an earlier bill in May. The elections will be a first in many years as Somalia gradually transitions from appointments of leaders into election by the people. Prior to this, the Minister of Interior was responsible for appointing the local government heads.