Somalia Political Milestone: Political parties registered for first time in 50 years

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Still in Somalia, which has marked an important political milestone. For the first time in nearly half a century, the nation has registered political parties. They'll replace the current clan-based power-sharing system. Analysts see the move as a positive development in a country emerging from decades of instability. CGTN's Abdulaziz Billow has more from Mogadishu.

Somalia has taken another step towards becoming a democratic state. The electoral body has awarded certificates of registration to seven political parties. For the first time in decades, Somalia is implementing multi-party politics.

FOWZIA HAJJI ADAM MULTI-PARTY, SOMALIA "For 50 years this country didn't have elections for thirty years it was in turmoil - we are in a crossroad now - this is a game changer - traditionally our elders don't accept women - but if we go in a free fair credible elections - it is women who benefit because we are the majority."

Currently, Somalia's political system is clan based. Power is divided among four powerful - and minority clans - in a system known as the 4.5 formula. The president, prime minister and parliamentary speaker hail from three different clans. Similar representation is evident in the formation of the upper and lower houses of Parliament.

FOWZIA HAJJI ADAM MULTI-PARTY, SOMALIA "This war destroyed the social economic and political fabric of Somalia - by starting to establish political parties and leave tribalism and the 4.5 formula behind is a huge step forward."

The seven political parties are provisionally registered. They need signatures from a minimum of 10-thousand voters - from at least nine of the country's 18 regions -- to become officially recognised. With elections not due until 2021, Somalia has yet to set up a voter register.

MOHAMED ABDULLAHI FARMAJO SOMALI PRESIDENT "Let there be no doubt of implementing the Somali people's wish to move away from clan power-sharing formula in choosing its leadership towards a representative, inclusive and accountability democratic model."

ABDULAZIZ BILLOW MOGADISHU, SOMALIA "In the recently concluded polls, a handful of delegates picked the current Parliament. Even this marked major progress from previous elections -- when clan elders had the final say in choosing parliamentary representatives."

The biggest challenge to democratic polls in Somalia is insecurity. If the government wants to exert greater authority across the country, it will have to eradicate the continuous threat posed by terrorist groups. AB, CGTN, Mogadishu, Somalia.