MOGADISHU, Somalia – The National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) has released the comprehensive statistical breakdown of candidates vying for seats in the upcoming Benadir regional council elections. The data paints a portrait of a political landscape undergoing a profound generational shift, with an overwhelming majority of aspirants hailing from the nation’s youth demographic.
According to the official figures released today, a total of 1,604 candidates have been cleared to contest across the 16 districts of the Benadir region. In a striking reflection of Somalia’s demographics, the commission revealed that 69% of these candidates are between the ages of 20 and 35. This surge in youth participation suggests a strong desire among young Somalis to move beyond the sidelines and directly influence the governance of their capital city.
The statistical report further indicates that the middle-aged demographic, defined as those between 35 and 50 years old, comprises 23% of the candidate pool, while the senior bracket of 50 to 65 years accounts for only 8%. This distribution highlights a distinct transition in political engagement, with the post-civil war generation stepping forward to claim leadership roles in the local administration.
In terms of gender representation, the data shows that while men still dominate the field, there is notable female participation. Out of the 1,604 total candidates, 1,243 are male, representing 77%, while 361 are female, accounting for 23% of the aspirants. While a gap remains, the presence of over three hundred women competing for local council seats is a significant development in the push for more inclusive governance.
The election, scheduled for December 25, 2025, will see these candidates representing 20 different political associations. The NIEBC’s release of these figures ensures transparency and provides the electorate with a clear understanding of who is seeking to represent them as Mogadishu prepares for its first direct local elections in over half a century.
