Mogadishu, (SONNA) – Somalia has marked a critical step toward democratic reform as voter registration for local council elections officially kicked off in Shangani district, Banadir region. Residents turned out in large numbers to register, signaling strong public interest in participating in the upcoming local elections scheduled for June. This move represents a significant milestone for a country that has not held one-person, one-vote elections at the local level for over six decades.
A key factor contributing to the smooth launch of the registration process has been the vital role played by the Somali Police Force. Officers have been deployed across registration centers in Shangani to ensure the safety of voters and protect the electoral facilities. Their visible and proactive presence has created a secure environment that has helped boost public confidence and encourage participation. Authorities have emphasized that maintaining peace and order throughout the registration and voting period is crucial to the credibility and legitimacy of the electoral process.
The National Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (NIEBC), which is overseeing the voter registration process, praised the strong coordination with security forces and local officials. Leaders from both the NIEBC and Banadir regional administration urged citizens to take advantage of the opportunity to register and exercise their constitutional right to vote. As the country moves closer to its first democratic local elections in decades, the success of the initial registration phase in Shangani sets an encouraging precedent for the rest of the nation.
