Garowe, Puntland, July 19th – In a resounding commitment to democratic engagement and political transparency, the Puntland Development Research Center (PDRC) and the Media Association of Puntland (MAP) orchestrated a dynamic event—the “Forum for Political Parties and the Public engagement”—in Garowe yesterday evening.
The event aimed to empower voters with crucial decision-making knowledge while providing political parties a vital platform to showcase their programs and engage with constituents. Attendees included voters from three Nugaal region districts, CSOs, youth and women’s groups, and representatives from eight political parties contesting local municipal positions.
Prominent figures such as PDRC Director Ali Farah, PUNSAA Chairman Abdirahman Abdirisaaq, MAP Chairman Mohamed Caynsane, and Puntland Electoral Commission officials also participated, emphasizing the event’s significance. The presence of honored guests and local community members further highlighted the widespread interest and support for the initiative.
At the openning remarks of the event, PDRC’s Director Ali Farah and MAP chair Mohamed Dahir both highlighted the critical importance of transparency and public engagement in democratic processes. By hosting such initiatives, both PDRC and MAP aim to create an environment where citizens can actively participate in and influence the electoral process, thereby strengthening the overall integrity and effectiveness of the democratic framework.
PDRC Director Ali Farah highlighted the forum’s significance in advancing transparency and encouraging active civic participation:
“This forum is a testament to our commitment to nurturing an open and engaging democratic process. It offers a crucial chance for the public to interact with political parties and gain insight into their future visions and policies.”
MAP Chairman Mohamed Caynsane underscored the essential role of the media in supporting democratic processes, stating;
“MAP’s collaboration with PDRC in organizing this event, highlights our mutual dedication to promoting transparency and public engagement in our electoral process. By offering a platform for open dialogue, we aim to empower citizens to make well-informed decisions and enhance the integrity of our democracy.”
The Forum which was moderated by veteran journalist Khadar Awal, covered key issues such as healthcare, economic development, education, infrastructure, security, and sports.
Political parties presented their strategies for improving healthcare, particularly for mothers and children. Economic discussions focused on utilizing tax revenue effectively and creating jobs through agriculture.
Education proposals highlighted the importance of local councils in managing school construction and engaging youth in party initiatives. Infrastructure plans included building bridges, parks, and utilizing natural resources.
Security and public safety were discussed with ideas for street cameras and firefighting policies, while sports and recreation plans included the construction of new stadiums.
The interactive nature of the forum allowed the public to pose questions directly to party representatives, reflecting a wide array of concerns from the electorate.
Boosting the outreach of audience was the live media coverage of the event that ensured that those unable to attend in person could still participate in the discourse, promoting a more inclusive democratic process.
In conclusion, the “Forum for Political Parties and the Public” successfully facilitated a meaningful dialogue between political leaders and the community. It reinforced the values of transparency, civic engagement, and informed decision-making. As Puntland approaches its elections, such forums are instrumental in empowering voters, fostering trust in the democratic process, and strengthening the foundations of governance.
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