Mogadishu (LM) Registration for local council elections officially commenced on Tuesday in the Shangaani district of the Banadir region, drawing significant participation from residents eager to cast their votes and elect their representatives.
Long lines formed at registration centers as citizens expressed their enthusiasm for the electoral process. The governor of the Banadir region, Mohamed Ahmed Amiir, was the first official to register, setting an encouraging example for others to follow. He urged all citizens to take part in this historic opportunity to shape their local governance.
This election cycle is particularly noteworthy, as it marks the first time in 50 years that Somali citizens have the chance to directly elect their local council members. The significance of this moment was not lost on residents, many of whom expressed their excitement and commitment to participating in the democratic process.
Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan, the chairman of the National Electoral Commission, affirmed the commission’s readiness to conduct the elections, stating that they have secured all necessary equipment and technology to ensure a smooth process. “We are committed to facilitating a transparent electoral process based on the one-person, one-vote system,” he said.
The commencement of voter registration is part of broader efforts to enhance democratic engagement in Somalia, providing citizens with a vital avenue to influence local governance. As the registration period continues, officials are optimistic about the turnout and the potential for a robust electoral process that reflects the will of the people.
The successful registration in the Shangaani district serves as a positive indicator of civic participation, paving the way for a new chapter in Somalia’s democratic journey.
Leadership Magazine
