By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) has begun issuing voter registration cards in the capital, Mogadishu, marking a rare and symbolic step toward local council elections in a city long shaped by conflict, displacement, and political fragility.
The exercise officially launched on Saturday across several key districts, including Hamarjajab, Waberi, Shangani, Hamarweyne, Boondheere, Abdiaziz, and Shibis. Long queues were seen forming early in the morning as residents arrived to take part in a process many described as historic.
For many Mogadishu residents, the simple act of collecting a voter card carries deep meaning after decades without credible local elections.
“I am a Somali citizen, and this morning I came to collect my voter card to make my voice heard,” said 55-year-old Osman Goodax Barre, who was among the first in line.
“I came to get my card so I can exercise my right to vote,” added Safiya Shire Dahir, echoing a sentiment shared by many citizens eager to participate in local governance.
In Shibis district, residents living with disabilities said the registration process made them feel recognized after years of marginalization.
“We, as people with special needs, are happy to finally cast our votes,” said Saalax Mohamed, the chair of the Shibis District Disability Association. “Today is a meaningful day for us because our voices matter.”
Elderly citizens also turned out in significant numbers. “At my age, I came out this morning to get my voter card,” said Elder Maxamuud Xaaji Goobe, leaning on his cane as he stood in line with younger residents.
Women’s groups used the occasion to call for stronger female participation in upcoming elections. Safiya Mohamed Ali, Chairwoman of the Shibis District Women’s Affairs Department, urged women not to miss the opportunity.
“The era of denying women their quota is over—sisters, let your vote be your voice,” she said, stressing the need for women to collect their cards and take part in shaping local leadership.
Officials described the opening day of distribution as calm and orderly, with residents turning out in an atmosphere of cautious optimism. The NIEC says the process will continue in phases across the capital.
Political organizations and parties now face a looming deadline. According to the commission, all political groups must submit their lists of district council candidates by 25 November 2025. The requirement is expected to test the preparedness and unity of Mogadishu’s numerous parties, alliances, and emerging political movements.
If successful, the local council elections would mark one of the most significant attempts in recent years to establish grassroots democratic structures in Somalia—a country where insecurity, political fragmentation, and delayed electoral processes have long hindered representative governance.
