Somalia’s Historic Journey to One-Person, One-Vote Elections

Mogadishu (AX) — This past Saturday marked a significant milestone for Somalia as the National Independent Electoral Commission announced the expansion of voter registration to three additional districts in Mogadishu. It is a pivotal moment, signaling the country’s march toward its first one-person, one-vote elections in more than half a century.

The news sparked enthusiasm across the capital, with residents from Hamarweyne, Boondheere, and Shibis districts demonstrating their commitment by forming long lines at registration centers. Such civic engagement does not merely point to an interest in voting; it is a clear indication of a broader desire for active participation in the democratic process.

Ali Somali, the district commissioner of Shibis, expressed his deep appreciation for the residents’ enthusiasm. “I aspire to be the last appointed governor of Shibis,” he stated, reflecting on a future where local leaders emerge through the people’s voices. “Today, I am filled with joy knowing that the people of this district will now vote for a leader they can truly choose.” His words encapsulate the hopes of many who have long dreamt of such a day.

Among those who registered, a woman shared an inspiring perspective with reporters. “For years, we’ve waited to reach this day. I can proudly say that I’ve registered to vote in the upcoming local council elections this June,” she said, her joy palpable. Her excitement echoes the sentiments of countless others who have endured prolonged periods of political instability and marginalization.

Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan, the Chairperson of the National Electoral Commission, articulated the gravity of this moment. “We have crossed a crucial milestone in the journey toward national elections,” he remarked, underscoring the ongoing voter registration efforts across four districts, including Shangani, where the process began. “Today, we are implementing a one-person, one-vote system that many believed was out of reach. The people of the Banadir region are demonstrating their readiness and resilience.”

The vision for local elections is set for June 2025, rooted in the universal suffrage model that would subsequently prepare the landscape for national elections, including the presidency, planned for 2026. Can you imagine a Somalia where every citizen’s voice counts equally? It has been over five decades since the last direct elections, making this future even more poignant.

However, the path forward is not without its challenges. Prominent opposition figures and the administrations of Northeastern State and Jubbaland have publicly voiced their concerns, rejecting the electoral roadmap. Their claims highlight perceived shortcomings regarding the legitimacy and consensus of the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. In a landscape rife with differing opinions, how can unity be fostered for the good of all?

The electoral reform process, launched in 2023, has encountered various delays, primarily due to political disputes among federal member states. Yet, progress took a turn as the cabinet eventually approved a framework. Since then, the federal government has actively worked to pave the way, starting with the Banadir region. This holds true, even amidst whispers of reluctance from some quarters.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has expressed his commitment to dismantling Somalia’s entrenched 4.5 clan-based power-sharing model, advocating for a robust system of universal suffrage. This ambitious vision has struck a chord with civil society groups across the nation, igniting hope for many. Yet, the resistance from several federal states raises essential questions: how do we reconcile varying interests? Is there a way forward that honors all voices while propelling Somalia toward a brighter, democratic future?

Somalia’s journey toward establishing a genuinely democratic electoral system is littered with both hope and challenges. Each voter registration and every community engagement carries the potential to reshape the political landscape. This intricate dance of reform and resistance will not only determine the future of governance but will also empower Somalia’s citizens to reclaim their voices.

As we witness the unfolding developments in Mogadishu and beyond, let us remain steadfast in our belief in the power of democracy. It is not merely a destination but a continuous journey shaped by citizens’ dreams and aspirations. What will our collective future look like as we strive for a Somalia where every vote truly counts?

Edited By Ali Musa

Axadle Times international–Monitoring.