Somalia Takes Historic Step Toward Inclusive Democracy with Voter Registration Launch
Mogadishu (AX) — On Tuesday morning, under a cloudless sky illuminated by the gentle sun, a long, expectant queue formed in Shangani district, Mogadishu. Gathered beneath the shade of sprawling acacia trees, hundreds of hopeful residents patiently awaited their turn to receive something historic—a voter identity card, a symbol promising them a voice and a lasting stake in Somalia’s future. Why did this scenario feel uniquely energizing today? Because Somalia hadn’t seen anything resembling an inclusive, nationwide voter registration since 1967.
The launch was organized by Somalia’s National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC), taking a bold stride toward fulfilling the country’s commitment to conducting its first universal suffrage elections in nearly six decades, planned for 2026. For many young Somalis standing in line, born amid intermittent conflict and instability, this marked more than a mere administrative event; it was a moment of possibility, of empowerment.
Among the first to proudly receive his voter ID card that morning was Mogadishu’s Mayor, Yusuf Hussein Jimale Madale. His participation was symbolic, underscoring government officials’ commitment and urgency toward a transparent and accountable electoral process. Mayor Madale exchanged reassuring smiles and friendly conversations with residents, epitomizing a government determined to reconnect with its constituents.
The chairperson of NIEBC, Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan, officially opened the event with palpable enthusiasm, describing it as “the first step in a nationwide journey”. Standing tall in his traditional Somali attire, his voice rang clear and warm, emphasizing the importance of collective participation. “Today,” he declared earnestly, “we begin a new chapter for Somalia. Every eligible Somali citizen deserves this chance—let’s embark on this democratic journey together.”
Deputy Governor for Security and Politics of the Banadir Regional Administration, Mohamed Ahmed Diiriye (known affectionately by locals as “Yabooh”), commended the process with emotional resonance. He reflected openly, “For decades we have heard skeptics claim direct democratic elections were impossible in Somalia. Well,” he added with a reassuringly firm smile, “those doubts are being disproven here, today.”
This voter registration milestone certainly holds deeper significance. It’s part of a broader federal initiative to transcend an entrenched clan-based political system known as the 4.5 model—where power sharing has historically been allocated along clan lines. Under this system, parliamentary representation favored four dominant clans with a fraction reserved for minority groups. Transitioning from such a deeply embedded system is complex and occasionally divisive, yet many Somalis now bravely imagine a future defined not by clan affiliations but through meritocratic and inclusive participation.
Yet, change never unfolds without criticism. While the scene in Shangani district radiated optimism, key opposition figures raised concerns about inclusivity and legitimacy. Former Presidents Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed (commonly known as Farmaajo) voiced apprehension in separate public statements, accusing the federal government of sidelining stakeholders and proceeding unilaterally. Their claim raised thought-provoking questions among many observers: Will polarization risk overshadowing Somalia’s ambitious democratic project? Could the federal government more thoroughly engage opposing voices?
Both former leaders even warned they might spearhead parallel voting processes in protest against what they term an “exclusionary” approach. Their dissatisfaction casts a subtle shadow—an imperfection—in this otherwise celebratory moment. Critical reflections and debates, however uneasy, underscore the authenticity and complexity inherent in democratic processes. They remind Somalis—and the international community—that democracy is never a tidy journey devoid of resistance or disagreement.
Meanwhile, NIEBC leaders tirelessly reassure skeptics of their intention to expand voter registration across all districts in Mogadishu imminently and nationwide thereafter. Officials stress that local security forces and administrative coordination have ensured—and will continue ensuring—a peaceful, orderly, and citizen-centered process.
As the day’s warm glow matured into a gentle afternoon breeze, people left Shangani’s voter registration site holding their cards firmly, optimism radiating in their eyes. An elderly woman, Amina, perhaps captured the sentiment best, stating quietly yet forcefully: “This is more than a card. It’s proof we have survived, overcome, and now demand to write our own destiny.” Her words hung heavily, reflecting Somalia’s resilience and the collective yearning for stability and representation after decades of uncertainty.
Indeed, the events unfolding in Mogadishu are profound, imperfect yet promising. They offer a hopeful glimpse—albeit an imperfect one—into Somalia’s quest for political stability, inclusivity, and citizen empowerment. Imperfections prompt dialogue. Dialogue fosters understanding. And understanding builds the foundation for meaningful, democracy-rooted transformation.
Will Somalia overcome these political hurdles, bridging divisions to embrace a unifying democratic future? As voter registration continues, Somalis themselves will ultimately write the next chapters of this compelling national narrative.
“The ballot is stronger than the bullet,” Abraham Lincoln famously remarked, words echoing profoundly today through Mogadishu’s streets, resonating deep within hearts determined to shape their nation’s future.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
