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Galmudug State launches “One Person, One Vote” voter registration in Dhusamareb, marking a historic milestone in Somalia’s journey toward universal suffrage and democratic governance. The campaign was officially inaugurated by Galmudug President Ahmed Abdi Kariye, popularly known as Qoor Qoor, who became the first citizen to register in the regional capital, setting the tone for what he described as a “new era of accountability and people-powered leadership.”
The launch event, held in Dhusamareb, drew senior government officials, members of the National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC), community leaders, and representatives from civil society. President Qoor Qoor urged all eligible citizens across Galmudug to register in large numbers, emphasizing that the right to vote is not only a civic duty but a powerful tool for shaping the future of the region.
“This is a day of national importance for Galmudug and for Somalia,” the president declared. “We are turning the page on indirect elections and embracing a system where every citizen’s voice counts equally. I call on all of you to register and be part of building a peaceful, democratic future.”
The voter registration campaign is part of a broader national push to transition Somalia from a clan-based, indirect electoral system to a direct, one-person-one-vote model by 2026. Galmudug is the first Federal Member State to roll out the initiative following the initial phase launched in Mogadishu two months ago. The move is seen as a bold step toward inclusive governance and a test case for other regions.
Mobile registration teams will be deployed across Galmudug’s districts to ensure accessibility, especially in remote and previously contested areas. The NIEC, in collaboration with the Boundary and Federalization Commission, will oversee the process to ensure transparency, security, and technical integrity.
Galmudug’s Minister of Interior, Abdi Mohamed Jama, echoed the president’s call for mass participation, stating that the campaign is not just about casting ballots but about empowering citizens to hold leaders accountable. “This is your chance to shape the leadership that will serve your interests. Let’s make history together,” he said.
The timing of the launch coincides with high-level political talks in Mogadishu between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and the Somali Salvation Forum, an opposition coalition. Both sides have reaffirmed their commitment to the one-person-one-vote model, rejecting a return to the indirect system used in the 2022 elections. However, disagreements remain over the structure of the electoral framework, the mandate of election commissions, and the role of political parties.
Despite these challenges, the momentum in Dhusamareb signals growing national consensus on the need for electoral reform. Galmudug’s proactive stance is being hailed as a model for other states, with observers noting that successful implementation here could catalyze broader democratic transformation across Somalia.
Since taking office in 2020, President Qoor Qoor has prioritized political reconciliation, institutional development, and service delivery. Under his leadership, Galmudug has established permanent government infrastructure, expanded access to education and healthcare, and launched justice sector reforms. The voter registration campaign is the latest in a series of initiatives aimed at deepening democratic governance and fostering long-term stability.
As registration begins, voter education campaigns will be rolled out to inform citizens about the process, their rights, and the importance of peaceful participation. Officials have pledged to ensure that no eligible voter is left behind, regardless of geography or social status.
With the launch of this campaign, Galmudug has taken a decisive step toward building a future where leadership is earned through the ballot, not bestowed by clan consensus. The success of this initiative could redefine Somalia’s political landscape and inspire a new generation of civic engagement.