MOGADISHU, Somalia — The Arab Parliament has welcomed Somalia’s decision to hold direct local council elections in Mogadishu, describing the vote as a historic milestone and a major breakthrough in the country’s long path toward democratic governance and state rebuilding.
In a statement issued on Thursday, December 26, 2025, the Speaker of the Arab Parliament, Mohammed bin Ahmed Al-Yamahi, said the direct election of the Benadir Regional Council marked a significant political achievement for Somalia and the first such vote to take place since 1969.
Al-Yamahi noted that the elections represent an important step toward strengthening democratic practices, citizenship, and public participation in governance. He said the move could contribute positively to improving security and stability in Mogadishu and across the country, while giving citizens a greater voice in public affairs and decision-making.
“The holding of these elections reflects progress in Somalia’s state-building efforts and sends a strong signal of hope for lasting peace and stability,” the Arab Parliament Speaker said.
He urged all Somali political actors to remain united and to place national interests above partisan disputes, stressing that dialogue and consensus remain the most effective tools for resolving political differences. Al-Yamahi emphasized that political cooperation is essential to consolidating recent gains and ensuring sustainable progress.
The Arab Parliament reaffirmed its full support for all initiatives aimed at achieving lasting peace, security, and development in Somalia, in line with the aspirations of the Somali people for stability and prosperity.
Somalia last held direct elections more than five decades ago, months before the military coup led by Mohamed Siad Barre. Following the collapse of his regime in 1991 and years of civil war, the country adopted an indirect electoral system in 2004 to manage clan divisions and ongoing security challenges.
The Mogadishu local council elections are widely seen as a crucial test case for the potential expansion of direct, one-person, one-vote elections at the national level, as Somalia seeks to transition from indirect political processes to broader democratic participation.
