Today marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s democratic journey as the Independent National Electoral Commission and Boundaries (GMDQS) officially launched the voter registration campaign in the Hirshabelle Federal Member State.
The launch event was held in Jowhar, the administrative capital of Hirshabelle, and was attended by the President of Hirshabelle, Ali Abdullahi Hussein (Guudlaawe), senior officials from GMDQS, and regional leaders.
This initiative is part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to establish a transparent, inclusive, and credible electoral process in Somalia. Voter registration is the critical first step that enables citizens to participate in the country’s future elections.
In his keynote speech, President Guudlaawe emphasized the importance of civic participation in the voter registration drive. He urged all eligible residents of Hirshabelle to actively register in order to secure their right to vote and fulfill their civic duty. Symbolically underscoring his message, the President became the first official in the region to register and receive a voter card.
The voter registration campaign had previously been launched in the Federal Member States of South West and Galmudug, where it is progressing smoothly.
According to the National Electoral Commission, the registration process will continue in phases across all Federal Member States, with the goal of ensuring widespread citizen participation and laying the foundation for nationwide democratic elections.
