By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — The African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) on Thursday praised the peaceful and transparent conduct of landmark local council elections in Mogadishu, describing the vote as a historic step forward in Somalia’s long-running efforts to restore democratic governance and strengthen state institutions.
In a statement released after polling stations closed, AUSSOM commended Somali federal and regional authorities for maintaining security and order during the elections for local councils in the Banadir region, home to the capital. The mission said the smooth conduct of the vote reflected growing institutional capacity, improved coordination among security agencies, and increasing public confidence in the electoral process.
“The successful conduct of these elections marks an important milestone in Somalia’s democratic journey, the consolidation of modern state institutions, and the advancement of peace and stability,” AUSSOM said, adding that inclusive and credible elections are essential to sustainable peace in the country.
Polling stations across Mogadishu closed earlier in the day, and officials from the National Independent Electoral Commission and Boundaries confirmed that the vote-counting process had officially begun. Ballot boxes were transported under heavy security to designated tallying centers, where electoral staff began sorting and verifying votes.
Residents across the capital closely followed developments, with many viewing the elections as a rare opportunity to directly influence local governance after decades of indirect political processes. The results are expected to determine new leadership for Mogadishu’s districts, including local councils responsible for service delivery, administration and community representation.
Authorities deployed thousands of police and security personnel across the city to secure polling centers, major roads and government facilities, amid concerns over potential attacks by militant groups opposed to the electoral process. No major security incidents were reported during voting, according to election officials.
The Banadir local council elections are the first direct local elections held in Mogadishu in more than 50 years and are widely seen as a test case for the planned expansion of one-person, one-vote elections across Somalia. Federal leaders have described the process as a key pillar of the country’s political roadmap and a step toward ending decades of conflict-driven governance systems.
Election officials said final results will be announced after the completion of verification and tabulation procedures in the coming days.
