South West State Administrations to Stay in Office Pending New Local Elections

Mogadishu, (SONNA) – The Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation has issued a directive allowing all regional and district-level administrations in South West State of Somalia to continue in office until new councils are formally elected in accordance with the law. The decision, grounded in Article 43 of Law No. 116 issued on August 6, 2013, follows an assessment of the prevailing political and security conditions across South West State. The Minister emphasized the need to prevent administrative vacuums and ensure continuity in governance and public service delivery. According to the statement, many top officials within the South West State administration are currently serving beyond their official term limits, necessitating a lawful and orderly transition process. Under the directive:

• All regional and district administrations will maintain their current responsibilities until successors are duly selected.
• The Ministry of Interior, in consultation with traditional elders in South West State, will oversee the protection of existing administrations and manage the appointment of officials to fill any vacant positions.

The order also instructs all relevant institutions, including security agencies, to implement the directive and play their role in maintaining stability and supporting the continuation of governance structures. The move is seen as part of broader efforts by the federal government to safeguard institutional stability while paving the way for future local governance elections.