MOGADISHU, Somalia – Strong preparations and a high level of voter enthusiasm are evident in the Shangani District this morning as the residents of Mogadishu prepare to cast their ballots in the Benadir regional council elections. The historic one-person, one-vote exercise has drawn citizens out of their homes well ahead of the official opening of polling stations, signaling a robust start to the democratic process.
In Shangani, one of the capital’s oldest districts, the security apparatus is fully mobilized. Officers from the Somali Police Force are visibly present, maintaining order and managing the growing lines of voters. A touching scene unfolded at the district headquarters, where police officers were observed actively assisting elderly citizens who had arrived early to ensure they could exercise their constitutional rights without difficulty. The officers prioritized the comfort and safety of these senior voters, guiding them through the queues.
The situation in Shangani is a microcosm of the wider atmosphere across the capital. Reports confirm that the same level of readiness and voter eagerness is being replicated in all other districts of the Benadir region. From ensuring the security perimeter to facilitating the movement of vulnerable groups, the logistical and security arrangements appear to be holding firm as the city waits for the polls to officially open.
This heightened state of preparation reflects the significance of the day, as the residents of Mogadishu transition from an era of indirect selection to directly electing their local representatives. The collaborative effort between the security forces and the public in districts like Shangani sets a positive tone for what is expected to be a peaceful and orderly election day.
