Reporting by: HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU – The Council of Ministers of the Federal Government of Somalia has formally approved the official ranking of districts in the Benadir region, a key preparatory step ahead of the country’s upcoming one-person-one-vote local council elections scheduled for 30 November in Mogadishu.
During its regular Thursday meeting, the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Reconciliation presented a provisional list of registered voters in the Benadir region and proposed a classification of districts into two tiers, intended to streamline election management and logistics.
According to ministry officials, the districts were categorized based on population size, administrative importance, and other electoral criteria:
Grade A districts (9):
1. Hodan
2. Yaqshid
3. Deyniile
4. Kaaraan
5. Dharkenley
6. Wadajir
7. Warta Nabadda
8. Heliwaa
9. Howlwadaag
Grade B districts (7):
1. Waaberi
2. Shibis
3. Xamar Jajab
4. Boondheere
5. Xamar Weyne
6. Abdiaziz
7. Shangani
Officials say the tiered approach will help electoral authorities prioritize resources, voter education, and polling station setup, ensuring a smoother voting process in densely populated or strategically important districts.
The move represents a historic milestone, marking the first direct local elections in Mogadishu for decades. Somali authorities have long planned these elections as part of a broader strategy to strengthen local governance, enhance accountability, and expand democratic participation.
Analysts note that the elections will be closely watched across Somalia and internationally, as they are seen as a key test for democratic consolidation in the capital, which has historically relied on indirect electoral systems and appointments for local councils.
The federal government has emphasized that the process will be inclusive, transparent, and peaceful, with security forces deployed to maintain order across Benadir during the election period.
By finalizing district rankings, Somali authorities hope to provide clarity to voters, political parties, and candidates, allowing all stakeholders to prepare adequately for the November elections, which are expected to have a major impact on local governance and citizen representation in Mogadishu.
