By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s National Electoral Commission has confirmed that 12 political organizations have so far submitted candidate lists for the upcoming district council elections in the Banadir region, scheduled for December 25. The announcement marks a major milestone in what officials describe as one of the most significant democratic exercises in the capital in more than five decades.
Speaking at a news conference in Mogadishu on Monday, Commission Chairman Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan said the registered organizations have collectively submitted hundreds of names as they move to meet the legal requirement of 390 candidates per political group, representing all district-level seats. He noted that while several groups have completed their submissions, others are still in the process of finalising their lists before the December 20 deadline.
According to the Commission, the political organizations that have submitted their candidates so far include Ramaas, Towfiiq, Karaama, SAAB, the National Unity and Development Organization, the Somali Citizens Organization, Shacabka Unity Organization, the National Democratic Organization, the National Values Organization, Madalsan Organization, the Somali Good Government Organization, and the Somali Justice and Solidarity Organization. More groups are expected to file their final lists in the coming days.
Chairman Abdikarin also provided an update on the distribution of voter identification cards, describing the process as “steadily progressing” across all districts in Banadir. Nearly one million voters registered for the election, although officials acknowledge that the number of voter cards issued so far remains below the total registrations due to logistical delays and verification procedures.
He urged political organizations to “expedite and complete” the registration of their candidates, emphasising that the Commission is committed to conducting a transparent, orderly, and credible election in accordance with Somalia’s electoral laws. He added that timely submissions are essential to ensure proper vetting, verification, and preparation of ballots ahead of the December vote.
The Banadir district elections are widely viewed as historically significant. It will be the first time in more than 50 years that district-level polls are held in Mogadishu, a city that has endured decades of civil conflict, political fragmentation, and insecurity. Analysts say the elections represent an important step in Somalia’s long-delayed move toward strengthening local governance and devolving power to elected district councils.
Government officials believe the elections will help improve accountability in municipal administration, enhance service delivery, and broaden political participation among residents of the capital. International observers have also expressed interest in monitoring the process, describing the vote as a key indicator of Somalia’s progress toward democratic consolidation.
With less than two weeks remaining before the submission deadline and only 16 days until polling day, the Electoral Commission is racing to complete voter card distribution, candidate vetting, logistical planning, and coordination with security agencies. Authorities say maintaining stability in Mogadishu during the election period will be a top priority, given the threat posed by militant groups opposed to the political process.
Despite the challenges, election officials remain optimistic. “These district elections are a turning point for Somalia’s democratic journey,” Chairman Abdikarin said. “They will give the people of Banadir a voice in shaping their local leadership for the first time in a generation.”
