The first local council elections, Somalia’s electoral commission began issuing voter cards in the capital on Saturday, marking a rare and significant step toward local council elections in a city long defined by conflict, displacement, and political uncertainty.The exercise kicked off in several districts, including Hamarjajab, Waberi, Shangani, Hamarweyne, Boondheere, Abdiaziz, and Shibis.“I am a Somali citizen, and this morning I came to collect my voter card to make my voice heard, Osman Goodax Barre, 55, said.
“I came to get my card so I can exercise my right to vote,” Safiya Shire Dahir said.
THE FIRST LOCAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS: PWDS AND THE ELECTION
The first local council elections, in Shibis district, residents with disabilities said they felt seen for the first time in years. “We, as people with special needs, are happy to finally cast our votes,” said Saalax Mohamed, chair of the Shibis District Disability Association. Elder Maxamuud Xaaji Goobe also noted, “At my age, I came out this morning to get my voter card.”
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Safiya Mohamed Ali, Chairwoman of Shibis District Women’s Affairs, urged women to collect their cards and use their votes. “The era of denying women their quota is over—sisters, let your vote be your voice,” she said.
THE CANDIDATES AND THE PREPARATIONS
The first local council elections, the voter card distribution process began calmly and orderly, with citizens turning out to ensure they can elect their political representatives.
The electoral commission said political organizations have until Nov. 25, 2025, to submit their lists of district council candidates, a deadline expected to test the preparedness of Mogadishu’s many parties and alliances.
