Somaliland elections

For the most part, Somaliland elections were not democratic. Although, the elections come at a significant stage in Somaliland’s political development, however they were prejudiced and biased. This is mainly because there was corruption and nepotism. You can see a person who is voting 5 times which is completely not allowed. Almost everyone was voting for the candidate from his clan but no one was thinking about the common good of everybody. This is one of the major obstacles that exist in Somaliland and blocks Somaliland from getting recognition from the world. Somaliland elections were chaotic and most people were not following the rules in laws in the constitution.

 Almost every candidate was struggling for power but that does not necessarily mean to break rules. Although corruption happens almost every place around the world but the candidly speaking the one in Somaliland is a bit extreme. People in Somaliland are trying to get recognition from the world but if they do not stop this continuing turmoil and crises then the probability that Somaliland will get recognition from the world will be dramatically low.

At first, I was very eager and enthusiastic that I will be voting but when I saw those grotesque and horrendous actions (corruption) going on, I extraordinarily changed my mind and decided not to vote. What was happening was totally unacceptable and in fact I was very disappointed. In addition to that, the people who were working in the election places knew some of the people who were voting and thus allowed them to vote as much as they want which is not how the election process works. The election process should have extreme laws and limits so that people would not do something they are not supposed to do.

The place was literally overcrowded and most people were yelling and screaming. There were approximately 100 people in each row and there were 3 rows in total. Even some dude who was back of the line tried to cut the line and fortunately he did and that was not what I was expecting. A random rude came to us (me and my friend) and told us that we should vote for a certain candidate and because of that he is going to pay us. That was honestly one of my most bizarre and awkward moments in life. I was basically perplexed and bewildered by the ambivalence of my feelings. Anyways, my friends and I talked for a while and I specifically told him that the money he (the dude) is paying us will not last forever and that we should think the common good of everybody and our country. Consequently, my friend and I did not vote because of the weird incident that happened.

Ultimately, I think the best way to avoid this from happening is to be fair and honest. The citizens should show some morality and integrity to their country because such scandalous and hideous issues like this is really devastating and deteriorating the prestige of the Somaliland. All in all, the government should address this dilemma as soon as possible before the whole country ruins. I believe that a tiny and small issue can lead to a humongous and disastrous issue and thus should be prevented.

http://www.economist.com/node/21551494