Mogadishu, SONNA – The Banadir Regional Administration organized an election awareness conference in Mogadishu under the slogan, “Let’s Embrace One Man, One Vote.” The event aimed to educate the public about the history of past elections in Somalia and promote understanding of direct elections, where every citizen has the right to vote.
The conference brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, religious scholars, youth, women, people with special needs, and various segments of society. Attendees emphasized the importance of transitioning to a one-person, one-vote electoral system, which is seen as a critical milestone for Somalia’s democratic development.
Speaking at the forum, the Minister of Internal Security of the Federal Government of Somalia, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismaacil Fartaag, highlighted the significance of the Banadir Regional Administration’s preparations for direct elections. “The preparation of the Banadir Regional Administration and the community for direct elections will open the door to one-man, one-vote elections taking place throughout Somalia,” he said.
The Governor of Banadir Region and Mayor of Mogadishu, Mohamed Amir, reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring that the people of the capital can elect their leaders through a transparent and democratic process. “The Banadir Regional Administration is committed to bringing One Man and One Vote Elections to the people of the capital, so that they can elect a leadership that would be an administrative entity and not through nomination,” he stated.
Governor Amir also announced that the marking of public registration and voting sites in the Banadir Region has recently been completed, a crucial step in preparing for the upcoming elections.
The conference was attended by federal government ministers, members of parliament, the Deputy Commissioner for Security and Politics of Banadir Region, the Secretary General of Banadir Region, district commissioners, and other prominent figures. Participants unanimously underscored the importance of holding one-person, one-vote elections for the future of the country and its people.
This event marks an important moment in Somalia’s journey toward democratic governance, as the nation works to establish a fair and inclusive electoral system that reflects the will of its citizens.