MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali security authorities have announced a comprehensive citywide movement restriction across Mogadishu on Thursday, December 25, 2025, as part of heightened security measures ahead of the capital’s landmark local council elections.
The decision followed a high-level security meeting chaired by Somali Police Commissioner Brigadier General Asad Osman Abdullahi (Diyaano), which brought together heads of police directorates, division commanders, and leaders of specialized units to finalize election-day security arrangements. General Asad instructed officers to enforce strict security protocols while ensuring voters are treated with dignity and supported in accessing polling stations.
According to police officials, the temporary suspension of vehicular and public movement is intended to create a secure environment that allows citizens to vote freely without fear of disruption. Security forces have been placed on full alert and directed to proactively prevent any incidents that could undermine the integrity of the electoral process.
Somali Police Spokesperson Major Abdifatah Adan Hassan said provisions have been made for humanitarian needs during the lockdown. Designated vehicles will be permitted to operate for medical emergencies and other critical services, ensuring public welfare is maintained alongside strict security enforcement.
Separately, Minister of Internal Security Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Farataag) confirmed that nearly 10,000 police officers have been deployed across Mogadishu to secure voters, polling stations, election officials, and key infrastructure. He said all security preparations have been completed, with intensified patrols, reinforced checkpoints, and strengthened intelligence coordination to counter potential threats.
The National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) also announced that nearly 5,000 trained election workers will be deployed to polling centers across the Banadir region. NIEC Chairman Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan said the staff have received extensive training to ensure a transparent and credible vote in line with national laws.
The December 25 elections mark a historic milestone, representing the first one-person, one-vote local council elections in Mogadishu in more than 50 years. Authorities say they are fully mobilized to ensure the process proceeds peacefully, allowing residents to play a direct role in shaping the city’s future governance.
