MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Independent National Electoral and Boundaries Commission has postponed key regional and local elections, shifting the voting date for Galmudug’s regional council and House of Representatives elections, as well as planned district commissioner polls in the Banadir region, to July 25, 2026.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Somalia’s Independent National Electoral and Boundaries Commission said the decision followed consultations with political parties and multiple requests from stakeholders, citing the need for additional time to finalize technical and administrative preparations.
The Galmudug elections were originally scheduled for July 20, 2026. The commission said the five-day delay would help ensure that logistical arrangements, voter-related procedures, and administrative readiness are fully completed ahead of the vote.
“The postponement is intended to strengthen the credibility and preparedness of the electoral process,” the commission said, emphasizing that the adjustment was made in coordination with political actors.
The electoral body also said that the timetable for electing district commissioners in the Banadir region remains under review. It said a final schedule will be announced after assessing preparedness levels and concluding consultations with political organizations.
Political groups have been urged to submit candidate lists without delay to avoid further disruptions and to speed up the electoral process. The commission also called on the Ministry of Interior to accelerate training programs and civic awareness efforts for newly elected local council members.
It further appealed for continued cooperation among political stakeholders, saying inclusive engagement is essential to ensuring that the elections are conducted in line with legal and procedural frameworks.
Somalia has been working to expand its electoral process across federal member states and key urban administrations, though timelines have frequently shifted due to logistical and political challenges.
