elections

Mogadishu (AX) — In a significant step towards democratic renewal, Somalia's Independent National Electoral Commission has initiated a new voter registration campaign across six additional districts in Mogadishu. This launch, which occurred on Saturday, marks a pivotal moment in preparations for the country’s first local council elections based on a one-person, one-vote system in nearly fifty years. The districts now included in this registration effort—Hodan, Howlwadaag, Kaaraan, Yaaqshiid, Warta Nabadda, and…

Mogadishu (AX) — This week saw a significant political gathering in Villa Somalia, where former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon Saacid met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre. The discussions centered around the pressing nature of Somalia’s upcoming elections and the precariousness of the nation’s security landscape—a topic that resonates deeply with so many Somalis today. In a heartfelt message shared on his official Facebook page, Shirdoon, who now leads the Nagaad political party,…

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…

Somalia's Road to Democracy: A Complex Vision The echo of "conducting free and fair direct elections" has been a familiar refrain among Somali officials since 2009. Along with ambitious ventures like "completing the constitution" and "eliminating terrorism," these aspirations have been part of national discourse. Yet, over a decade and a half later, these goals remain elusive. One can't help but wonder: Why are these dreams still unrealized? The answer might lie in their intricate interdependencies and the unique…

Somalia's Electoral Reforms: A Journey Toward Universal Suffrage In a move that might be seen as both strategic and accommodating, Somalia has taken a significant step in its democratic journey. Abdikarin, a prominent figure in Somalia’s electoral commission, recently shared, "We've spoken with both registered groups and those still completing their paperwork. They asked for more time, and after reviewing the request during a meeting yesterday, we agreed to…

Somalia Elections - A Step Towards Empowerment "This is the first step in returning the power of choice to the Somali people," declared Hassan, with a sense of hope mingling with the cautious optimism that peppered the room. Looking back, it's intriguing how substantial this moment is. Somalia is poised on the brink of hosting its first direct vote for local councils since the central government disintegrated back in 1991. What a journey from clan-dominated politics to this pivotal milestone in democratic governance. The…

Beledweyne Community Unites for Democratic Elections and Al-Shabaab Resistance In an inspiring turn of events, the Hawadle community of Somalia has thrown its weight behind the federal government's vision to introduce one-person, one-vote elections. After years of indirect voting processes, this marks a significant departure. Yet, what spurred this shift in political culture? Perhaps it’s the timeless truth that voices directly cast are the echoes of genuine democracy. During a momentous gathering on a sunny…

Mogadishu (AX) – A gentle hum of anticipation filled the air as Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed Parliament on Saturday—a collective assembly of minds gathered to mark the opening of its sixth session in Mogadishu. Is there a time more apt for reflection and hope than the dawn of a new parliamentary session? President Mohamud seized this moment, directing the statesmen's attention to the seismic military movements against the entrenched forces of ISIS and Al-Shabaab in the arid expanses of Northeastern State…

Mogadishu (AX) – Somalia stands at the threshold of a significant political evolution. The National Electoral Commission, undeterred by dissent from two states and select opposition factions, remains steadfast in its dedication to orchestrate a universal suffrage election in 2026. Chairman Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan, with commendable zeal, announced on Thursday the strides made towards this monumental election. Could there be a more potent symbol of progress in Somalia's political landscape than this? According to Hassan, the…

MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the midst of Somalia's tumultuous journey towards stability, accusations have once again surfaced against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, suggesting he has taken liberties with the nation’s constitutional framework. But what does this mean for a country already grappling with political unrest? The criticism comes from a coalition of opposition parties and civil society groups, claiming the president has stretched the constitutional boundaries too thin. "Somalia is on a precipice," they warn,…