Mogadishu Launches Voter Card Distribution Ahead of First Local Council Elections

Mogadishu begins voter card rollout for local council elections

Somalia’s electoral commission on Saturday began issuing voter cards in Mogadishu, a step the capital has seldom seen after years marked by conflict, displacement and political uncertainty. The process opened across multiple districts with steady turnout and orderly lines as residents prepared to participate in upcoming local council polls.

• Distribution started in Hamarjajab, Waberi, Shangani, Hamarweyne, Boondheere, Abdiaziz and Shibis districts.
• Officials described the first hours of the exercise as calm and organized, with citizens arriving early.
• The rollout is intended to ensure eligible voters can select their district representatives.

Citizen voices underscore urgency and inclusion

Residents framed the moment as a chance to be heard after years of limited local representation. “I am a Somali citizen, and this morning I came to collect my voter card to make my voice heard,” said Osman Goodax Barre, 55. “I came to get my card so I can exercise my right to vote,” added Safiya Shire Dahir.

• People with disabilities in Shibis said they felt recognized: “We, as people with special needs, are happy to finally cast our votes,” said Saalax Mohamed, chair of the Shibis District Disability Association.
• Elderly residents participated alongside younger voters. “At my age, I came out this morning to get my voter card,” said elder Maxamuud Xaaji Goobe.
• Women’s leaders urged broad participation. “The era of denying women their quota is over—sisters, let your vote be your voice,” said Safiya Mohamed Ali, Chairwoman of Shibis District Women’s Affairs.

How the process is unfolding on the ground

Local administrators reported an even flow of registrants through the morning, with officials checking eligibility and handing out cards at designated district points. The methodical approach is designed to build confidence in a city where many residents have been displaced or lacked formal identification for years.

• Queues formed early at distribution sites, with materials and staff deployed across the initial districts.
• Residents described the process as straightforward: show identification, verify details and collect the card.
• Authorities emphasized orderliness to maintain safety and ensure equitable access.

Next steps and deadlines

The electoral commission said political organizations must submit district council candidate lists by Nov. 25, 2025, a timeline that will test the readiness of Mogadishu’s parties and alliances. The deadline sets a clear path for the next phase of the city’s local electoral process.

• Political organizations now face a structured calendar to finalize candidate slates.
• District councils will be formed following candidate verification and voting.
• Officials have not announced additional dates but indicated more districts will continue distribution.

By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.