Mogadishu, (SONNA) — In a pivotal moment for Somalia, the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission announced the launch of local council elections in the capital, Mogadishu, scheduled for October 30. This marks the first time in 58 years that local council members, alongside the Governor of Banadir and the Mayor of Mogadishu, will be elected.
Commission Chairman Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan stated that nearly one million voters have been registered in recent months, surpassing the initial target of 812,000. He emphasized that this achievement reflects the Somali people’s commitment to shaping their future and enhances the credibility of the electoral process in the Banadir region.
Efforts to register voters have extended beyond the capital to most provinces across the country, from the northeast to the southwest, ensuring timely direct elections. Preliminary results of registered voters in Banadir will be announced on August 27.
In a symbolic gesture, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud registered as a voter on August 12 at a registration center in Warta Nabdeh, urging citizens to actively participate in the upcoming elections. He highlighted that this election represents a long-awaited dream.
The President praised the commission’s efforts in organizing direct elections, calling it a “national achievement” that solidifies Somalia’s democratic path. He affirmed that the “one person, one vote” principle empowers the populace to choose their leaders at all levels, including parliament, regional presidents, and the presidency.
Additionally, the President expressed deep appreciation for the security forces and district leaders for their commitment and cooperation in ensuring the success of this crucial national process, reflecting the Somali people’s desire to actively engage in rebuilding state institutions on transparent and equitable democratic foundations.
