Puntland poll body stands ground on local election dates

GOOBJOOG NEWS|GAROWE: The Puntland Electoral Commission (TPEC) has stood ground on election dates for Qardho, Ufeyn and Eyl slated for October 25.

The Puntland Political Association had requested for postponement of the elections in the three districts to a later date against the Commission’s set dateline.

In a press conference in Garowe on Monday, the Chairman of TPEC, Guled Saleh said that the commission was not willing to bend to the wishes of the political parties association noting elections will take place as planned.

He further added that the commission would do everything within their powers to ensure that the Puntland Political Association is provided with technical and economic support to expedite the election process.

The association had asked for a delay of elections citing a coincidence with the Lower House elections which are set o kick off soon.

The Transitional Puntland Electoral Commission (TPEC) has already started the preparation of voter identification cards in readiness for the Local Council Elections and the body.