MOGADISHU, Somalia — December 2025 — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Sunday officially collected his voter registration card ahead of the upcoming Banadir Region local council elections, marking a symbolic and practical step in Somalia’s effort to transition toward a one person, one vote electoral system.
The President registered at a polling center in Mogadishu, describing the moment as historic as Somalia prepares to move away from its long-standing clan-based political model. He noted that the Banadir local council elections will be the first time in 57 years that Somali citizens directly elect representatives to manage local affairs and deliver basic public services.
“This is a historic opportunity. After 57 years, the Somali people will once again have the chance to directly elect those who will represent them on local councils,” President Hassan Sheikh said. He emphasized that free and direct elections are not a political favor, but a constitutional obligation that the government is committed to fulfilling.
The voter registration drive is part of broader preparations for Somalia’s electoral transition, with the federal government aiming to replace indirect selection processes with universal suffrage. The Banadir local council polls, scheduled for December 25, are widely seen as a test case for future nationwide elections, including parliamentary and presidential polls.
Banadir Region Governor and Mayor of Mogadishu, Dr. Hassan Mohamed Hussein (Muungaab), also received his voter card in Karan District. He said the ongoing registration reflects growing public engagement and urged residents of the capital to participate in the process.
Despite the government’s push for universal suffrage, the transition has faced resistance from segments of the political opposition. Several opposition leaders and political groups have expressed concerns over what they describe as a lack of broad political consensus, questioning the readiness of the security, legal, and institutional frameworks. Some opposition figures have warned that unresolved disagreements could affect the credibility of the process if not addressed through inclusive dialogue.
Somalia is scheduled to elect a new president in May 2026, when the current presidential term expires. Government officials say progress on voter registration and the successful conduct of local elections will be critical in determining whether the country can fully implement a one person, one vote system ahead of that deadline.
The President called on all eligible Somalis — particularly women, youth, and marginalized groups — to register and vote, stressing that broad participation is essential to building durable democratic institutions and strengthening local governance.
