Opinion

The House of Elders, or Guurti, in Somaliland holds a significant role in the nation's political landscape, with the power to extend its own term as well as those of the House of Representatives and the President. Originally established in 1993 as part of Somaliland's peacebuilding efforts, the Guurti was intended to serve for six-year terms. However, the House has never been re-elected, and over the years, it has extended its term multiple times, ultimately leading to its continued dominance in Somaliland's political scene. This unchecked power has contributed to a stagnation in Somaliland's democratic progress, with election delays becoming a chronic issue, often sparking political unrest and violence. The indefinite extensions granted by the Guurti have led to growing tensions between the government and opposition parties, who view these actions as unconstitutional and detrimental to Somaliland's democracy. The lack of accountability and failure to reform the constitution to reflect the current needs of the people have only exacerbated the situation. As a result, political conflicts have intensified, with peaceful demonstrations often met with excessive force, leading to casualties and further destabilization. The ongoing crisis underscores the need for constitutional amendments, adherence to the rule of law, and a clear separation of powers to ensure a more transparent and democratic governance in Somaliland.

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