Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called on residents of Mogadishu to participate peacefully and responsibly in the capital’s landmark local council elections, describing the vote as a major step toward democratic governance and accountability.
Speaking to the media, the president urged citizens of the Benadir region to turn out in large numbers, stressing that voting is both a constitutional right and a civic duty.
“Today, the people of Mogadishu have the chance to choose their own local representatives through the ballot box,” the head of state said.
“I call on all voters to participate peacefully and to protect this historic process. These elections belong to the people.”
Before dawn on Thursday, thousands of residents had already lined up across the capital, from Karaan district in the north to Kahda in the south, eager to cast their ballots.
Long, orderly queues began forming as early as 3 am, outside polling stations, reflecting strong public enthusiasm for the first local council elections conducted under universal suffrage in more than 50 years.
According to the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC), voting is taking place across all 16 districts of the Benadir region, with 523 polling stations operating throughout Mogadishu.
The commission said 918,890 voter cards were printed ahead of the election, with 503,916 already collected by registered voters.
NIEBC Chairman Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan praised the early turnout and reassured the public of the commission’s commitment to fairness and transparency.
“I urge all registered voters to turn out in large numbers, because their participation is vital for Mogadishu’s democratic transformation,” he said.
“We are committed to a transparent and fair process, supported by strong security measures.”
Five major political parties are contesting the elections: Towfiiq, Karaama, Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP), Sincad, and Ramaas.
The Towfiiq Party, led by Sheikh Shaakir, enjoys significant support among followers of Ahlu Sunnah wal Jama’a and maintains a strong grassroots presence in the capital.
The Sincad Party, led by Ahmed Jabiye, is well known for its performance in Puntland’s previous local elections, where it ranked among the top three parties.
The JSP, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has also mounted an active campaign across Mogadishu.
Voters interviewed by the Somali National News Agency (SONNA) expressed pride and a sense of ownership over the process.
“I have been waiting since early morning because this vote matters to me and my family,” said Amina Mohamed, a resident of Hodan district.
“For the first time, I feel that my voice will directly shape how my district is governed.”
Security across Mogadishu remained tight but calm, with Somali Police Force units deployed around polling stations.
Officials reported that voting had proceeded peacefully, with no major incidents recorded.
Preliminary results are expected within 48 hours, as Mogadishu marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s ongoing democratic transition.
Somalia last held direct elections in 1969, months before military ruler Mohamed Siad Barre seized power in a coup.
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