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Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) has confirmed that Local Council Elections will be held in June 2025, encompassing key regions such as Gedo and Khaatumo, Somalia. This development is part of the federal government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen local governance and promote democratic participation at the grassroots level.
The NIEC Chairperson, Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan, disclosed the plan during a press conference, revealing that 800 polling stations have been designated across various regions, including Mogadishu, Hirshabelle, Galmudug, Jubaland—specifically Gedo—South West State, and the interim SSC Khaatumo administration. Abdikarin highlighted that extensive consultations with most federal member state leaders had laid the groundwork for the upcoming elections.
To ensure the smooth execution of the electoral process, political organizations aiming to participate must meet stringent new requirements. Abdikarin emphasized that all groups must register with the NIEC, while previously registered organizations must renew their credentials. A key stipulation mandates that organizations demonstrate a membership base of at least 10,000 to qualify, a measure designed to ensure credibility and broad public support.
The elections are set to take place on a single day across all regions, with Mogadishu playing a central role. Polling will be conducted in districts that were officially recognized before 1991 under Somalia’s former military regime, which acknowledged 95 districts. However, the NIEC has streamlined this number to 65 districts to simplify the voting process and ensure efficient management of the polls.
Despite the ambitious nature of the electoral plan, several significant challenges threaten its success. Political tensions between the federal government and the administrations of Puntland and Jubaland remain unresolved, casting doubt on the feasibility of holding elections in all designated areas. These divisions have led to widespread concerns about the potential for unrest or disruptions during the voting period.
Opposition groups have also voiced strong objections to the nationwide elections, arguing that the current political landscape is not conducive to fair and transparent voting. They claim that unresolved disputes and a lack of consensus among key political stakeholders may undermine the integrity of the electoral process.
Nonetheless, the NIEC remains committed to proceeding with the elections as scheduled, emphasizing the importance of democratic participation and local governance. Abdikarin stressed that the electoral commission is working tirelessly to address logistical and security concerns, as well as to build public confidence in the voting process.
The announcement of the June elections marks a critical step forward for Somalia as it continues to navigate complex political challenges and rebuild its democratic institutions. Observers have noted that the success of these elections will depend heavily on cooperation between the federal government, regional administrations, and political stakeholders. Ensuring a peaceful and transparent electoral process will be vital to strengthening public trust in the country’s governance structures.
As Somalia moves closer to the June elections, the eyes of the international community are likely to remain focused on the country’s ability to overcome its political divisions and deliver a credible and inclusive democratic process. The NIEC’s efforts to streamline the electoral process and implement strict requirements for political organizations are seen as positive steps toward ensuring accountability and fostering democratic governance.