By Horn Africa News Staff
Jowhar — The Independent National Electoral Commission of Somalia today officially opened the country’s first voter registration center under a new democratic electoral framework—marking a historic milestone in Somalia’s journey toward universal suffrage.
The President of Hirshabelle State, Ali Abdullahi Hussein (Ali Gudlawe), became the first citizen to register at the center. He called on all Somalis to participate and exercise their right to vote.
“This is the best opportunity the Somali people have had in years,” said President Gudlawe.” I am proud to stand here today and claim my right as a citizen.”
This event represents the first practical step in implementing the “one person, one vote” system in Somalia, shifting away from the clan-based, indirect electoral process that has dominated Somali politics for decades.
Crowds gathered in Jowhar to witness and participate in the event. Local leaders and citizens lined up to register, expressing excitement about the democratic transition. One of the registrants described the day as a “Historic moment for democracy in Somalia.”
The National Electoral Commission announced that this center in Jowhar is only the beginning. Similar voter registration centers will be launched across all districts in the region in the coming weeks.
This development underscores Somalia’s commitment to peace, accountability, and the rebuilding of democratic institutions after years of civil unrest and electoral setbacks.
