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The Somali Electoral Commission has announced that twelve political organizations have so far submitted their candidate lists for the upcoming district elections in the Banadir region, set to take place on December 25. The announcement was made on Monday in Mogadishu by Commission Chairman Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan, who briefed the media on the progress of preparations ahead of this historic vote.
According to Chairman Abdikarin, the organizations have collectively submitted hundreds of names toward the required 390 candidates per party. While some political groups have already completed their submissions, others are still finalizing their lists as the deadline approaches. He encouraged all participating organizations to speed up the process, reminding them that December 20 is the final day to submit candidate lists. He stressed that meeting this deadline is crucial to ensuring the election is held transparently, in line with electoral laws and the expectations of Somali citizens.
The organizations that have submitted candidate names include Ramaas, Towfiiq, Karaama, SAAB, National Unity and Development Organization, Somali Citizens Organization, Shacabka Unity Organization, National Democratic Organization, National Values Organization, Madalsan Organization, Somali Good Government Organization, and Somali Justice and Solidarity Organization. These groups represent a diverse mix of political visions and ideologies, reflecting the growing political engagement in the capital.
Chairman Abdikarin also shared updates on voter card distribution, noting that the process is progressing smoothly across all districts in the Banadir region. Even so, officials acknowledge that the number of voter cards issued so far is still lower than the total number of people who have registered. Nearly one million residents in the region have signed up to participate in this long-awaited vote, a turnout that reflects a strong public interest in shaping the future of local governance. The Commission said it is continuing efforts to ensure that more people receive their voting cards on time so that as many registered voters as possible can take part in the elections.
The upcoming district elections are particularly significant because they mark the first time in more than fifty years that such a process is being held in Mogadishu. The last district-level elections in the capital took place decades ago, during a very different political era in Somalia. Since then, the country has undergone years of conflict, instability, and recovery. Holding district elections today is widely seen as a major step forward in strengthening democratic systems and restoring public participation in local decision-making.
For many residents, the election represents a chance to choose leaders who will directly impact the everyday issues they face—such as community services, infrastructure, local security, and development projects. It also gives political organizations the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to reform, accountability, and citizen representation.
As preparations intensify, the Electoral Commission continues to emphasize the importance of cooperation from all political stakeholders. Chairman Abdikarin noted that transparent, fair, and well-organized elections are essential to building trust between citizens and institutions. He added that this vote is more than a political exercise—it is a symbol of progress and resilience for the people of Mogadishu.
Despite logistical challenges, the Commission says it remains committed to delivering an election that reflects the will of the people. With thousands of candidates expected to compete for district-level positions, and nearly a million voters preparing to cast their ballots, the December 25 elections are set to become a defining moment in the region’s political history. Officials hope that the successful completion of this process will lay the groundwork for stronger local governance and more inclusive political participation in the years to come.