Somalia Embarks on Historic Voter Registration, Marking New Chapter in Democracy
Mogadishu (AX) — On a warm Tuesday morning, history quietly unfolded in Mogadishu’s bustling Shangani district, signaling a significant and long-awaited turning point for Somalia’s democratic journey. For the first time in over half a century, hundreds of enthusiastic Somalis lined up patiently to take part in the country’s inaugural voter registration campaign—a landmark step towards one-person, one-vote elections. The significance of this event cannot be overstated—this was not merely administrative bureaucracy but rather a powerful symbol of hope that Somalia could finally put behind decades of clan-based electoral systems and elite-driven governance.
“After 55 years, to witness our citizens registering to vote is a historic victory,” declared Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, visiting the voter registration center amid the vibrant hum of hopeful participants. His words encapsulated a blend of gratitude, resolve, and cautious optimism—a sentiment shared by Somalis both home and abroad who have long yearned for democratic inclusivity.
But what does this move truly signify for Somalia? Beyond mere headlines, voter registration represents more than just names written down or identification cards issued. It signifies the reclaiming of a people’s voice after decades of political turmoil, external interference, and internal division. As Minister Fiqi profoundly stated, “The people of Shangani have shown the readiness of Somalis for public elections.” And indeed, their readiness carried a determined, yet carefully hopeful message: Somalis crave change, stability, and agency in their homeland’s governance.
Minister Fiqi was quick to stress the responsibility falling upon every Somali citizen. “If you don’t register, you will miss the opportunity to choose leaders who realistically represent your interests,” he passionately urged. In essence, voter registration not only symbolizes freedom but demands accountability from citizens themselves. It encourages a collective ownership of the nation’s destiny and demonstrates faith in the democratic process despite previous disappointments.
Yet, behind celebrations and statements of historical significance, lie quiet but palpable concerns. Political factions—especially leaders from the Jubbaland and Northeastern State regional states and parts of the opposition—remain hesitant. Questions around timing, preparedness, security, and the overall fairness of transitioning to direct elections echo loudly. These concerns aren’t baseless; history has taught Somalia painful lessons. A thoughtful observer might rightly wonder: Can Somalia, after years of conflict and delicate power balances, genuinely transition smoothly into direct democratic elections?
A similar skepticism is heard even among everyday Somalis. Consider Ibrahim Hassan, a local merchant quietly watching the lines form that morning. “I have waited years for the opportunity to vote directly, but having seen many promises that ended unfulfilled, part of me still worries. Can we truly move beyond conflicts and external interventions?” Hassan’s question—a question asked privately, perhaps echoed in whispered doubts among many across the nation—reflects the subtle imperfections and shadows that any ambitious democratic reform must inevitably reckon with.
Yet, imperfection does not lessen the beauty nor diminish the value of democratic reform. Indeed, the path to democracy, as history across the world has proven repeatedly, is seldom smooth. It often demands courage, patience, and even moments of genuine risk. Undoubtedly, Somalia’s path will be no exception, and its journey might be filled with challenges and setbacks. But it is precisely these imperfections that make the country’s democratic journey uniquely human and remarkably resilient.
Furthermore, Minister Fiqi delivered a message explicitly aimed at reassuring critics. He asserted clearly, “This country will only conduct one person, one vote elections. We’ve moved past the era when foreign-led initiatives controlled our electoral process.” His voice carried a deliberate finality—a signal that Somalia is asserting genuine self-determination. The minister also encouraged the opposition to actively join this unfolding chapter, promoting an inclusive political environment.
If Somalia successfully implements nationwide direct elections, it would represent the nation’s most substantial democratic advancement since 1969, prior to a military coup which fractured subsequent generations under authoritarian rule and eventually spiraled into state collapse. Such historical context offers a poignant reminder of the significance voter registration carries, catapulting Somalia into the global family of democracies again.
Somalia’s federal government is determined to replicate this voter registration launch all across the country’s districts and regions in the coming weeks. Their hope—indeed, every Somali citizen’s hope—is that these initial steps will blossom into a sustained democratic culture, moving Somalia beyond its troubled past into a bright, yet admittedly uncertain, future.
Therefore, as Somalia stands at the threshold of change, perhaps it’s fitting to recall Nelson Mandela’s wisdom: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” For Somalia, today may very well embody the seemingly impossible first step toward a peaceful, democratic tomorrow.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
