By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 9 June 2026 – Somalia’s electoral commission said safeguards will protect security, neutrality and ballot secrecy in the June 10 South West State presidential election, responding to complaints by candidates Sharif Sheikh Aden and Abdiaziz Osman Jawari.
The response came after the two candidates held a press conference on Tuesday, expressing concern over the transparency and fairness of the planned presidential election process.
The candidates wanted the election to be conducted in a transparent manner, warning against any pressure on lawmakers or practices that could undermine the secrecy of the vote.
They also raised concerns over reports that lawmakers could be asked to photograph their ballot papers, describing such a practice as unacceptable.
The candidates also questioned the role of Speaker of the House of the People Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur Madobe, who is also running for the South West State presidency.
They maintained that Madobe should not remain Speaker of the House of the People while also contesting the South West State presidential election.
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However, responding to the complainants, the electoral commission said security at the election venue would be handled by the commission and special forces independent of all candidates contesting the South West State presidency.
The commission said a neutral election venue had been prepared, adding that the site would be independent of all candidates and equally accessible to them, in accordance with Article 74, paragraph 2, of the electoral law.
It further informed lawmakers that mobile phones and similar devices would not be allowed inside the voting booth, saying the measure was intended to protect ballot secrecy.
The commission emphasized that lawmakers must comply with the law, cast their votes secretly and avoid any action that could undermine the confidentiality of the ballot, citing Articles 3 and 56 of Electoral Law No. 28 of 2024.
Candidate speeches for the South West State presidency are also expected to take place in Baidoa today, after they were postponed on Monday.
South West State lawmakers are expected to elect the regional president on June 10, in a contest closely watched by the federal government, local political actors and international partners.