Saturday April 15, 2023
Garowe (HOL) - The Puntland Youth Political Association (PYPA) has accused the Transitional Elections Committee (TPEC) and Puntland's President of constitutional violations and manipulating the One-Person-One-Vote (1P1V) election process.
In a press release following consultation meetings held between April 6th and 13th, 2023, the PYPA expressed its concerns about the TPEC's neutrality, stating that it has "aligned itself with the ruling government." The PYPA contends that the TPEC's lack of independence is due to members' personal interests guiding their actions, leading to intentional violations of several Puntland Constitution articles by the President and TPEC.
The PYPA has called for a meeting of various societal sectors, including traditional leaders, politicians, scholars, intellectuals, youth, and women, to discuss preserving democracy in Puntland. The organization warned the Puntland Parliament against participating in unconstitutional actions or intentions, such as leaving the region or halting the election process.
With 75% of the population consisting of youth, the PYPA emphasizes the importance of transparent, accessible, and fair elections for their future. They argue that the current election process is being used for political manipulation and personal interests, creating an incomplete electoral process.
The PYPA added that it would not participate in an election that is not transparent and fair, as it may lead to political unrest and "problems that the people and the government of Puntland cannot afford."