registration

Mogadishu (AX) — In an exciting development for Somalia's democratic landscape, the National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) has announced an extension of voter registration in the Banadir region by one month. This decision comes as public interest and participation reach unprecedented levels ahead of Mogadishu's first direct elections in over fifty years. The newly established deadline of August 15, 2025, is a response to the remarkable turnout witnessed across various districts in the capital. Abdikarim Ahmed…

Somalia: Government Plans Troop Deployment to Gedo Amid Voter Registration Tensions MOGADISHU, Somalia, July 13 – The anticipation in the air is almost palpable. As Somalia edges closer to the significant milestone of voter registration for its ambitious one-person, one-vote election system, the federal government is not leaving anything to chance. It’s a critical moment, and the stakes are high. Reports suggest a strategic deployment of additional troops to the Gedo region. But what's the…

Jowhar (AX) — On a significant Sunday morning, the National Independent Electoral Commission of Somalia took an important step forward: the voter registration process launched in Jowhar, the interim capital of Hirshabelle State. This initiative is integral to Somalia's long-awaited transition towards a "one-person-one-vote" electoral system. It's a moment that symbolizes hope, change, and a stronger commitment to democracy for the Somali people. The atmosphere in the city was palpable with excitement and anticipation.…

Dhusamareb (AX) – In a significant leap towards democratic engagement, Galmudug State President Ahmed Abdi Kariye Qoor Qoor on Thursday proudly inaugurated the “One Person, One Vote” voter registration campaign in Dhusamareb, the administrative heart of the region. This initiative is more than just a political maneuver; it embodies the aspirations of a population eager to embrace participatory governance. As the first individual to formally register, President Qoor Qoor set a powerful precedent. His action was not merely…

MOGADISHU, Somalia — As the local council elections in Mogadishu approach, a growing unease has enveloped the city. Conversations echo with concerns about the voter registration process, casting shadows over what should ideally be a time of democratic engagement. Are these fears justified? Residents seem to think so, their voices rising above the din of daily life with tales of coercion and undue pressure. The story that unfolds here isn't just a simple narrative of numbers and dates. The heart of the issue…

Somalia's New Identification Mandate: A Step Toward Unity or Controversy? Mogadishu (AX) — In a bold move aimed at streamlining public services, Somalia's Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has mandated that all of its services will now require the presentation of a National Identification Card. This requirement is a product of the Prime Ministerial Directive XRW/415/04/2025, which aims to enhance nationwide identity verification through a unified system. The Cabinet endorsed this decision during its…

Garissa Residents Urged to Register for Social Health Authority Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale recently called on the residents of Garissa to proactively register with the Social Health Authority (SHA). This crucial initiative aims to ensure that everyone can access essential medical services without facing financial barriers. Currently, only 150,468 Kenyans from Garissa have completed this registration, representing a mere 16.7% of the local population. Given these statistics, it becomes evident that a significant…

Mogadishu (AX) – In an era where social media dominates the information landscape, it’s all too easy for mistruths to spread like wildfire. Recently, rumors have surfaced suggesting that residents of Mogadishu are being coerced into collecting their voting cards under the threat of arrest. The Somalia Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stepped forward to clarify these claims, categorically dismissing them as unfounded. Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan, the Chairman of the Electoral Commission, has taken a firm…

Somalia’s Electoral Commission Addresses Allegations of Coercion in Student Registration Mogadishu (AX) — In an unexpected turn of events, Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) found itself dismissing accusations that it pressured university students to register for the Banadir Regional Council elections. The claims originated from opposition leaders, notably Abdirahman Abdishakur of the Wadajir Party and the former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed of Hizbul Islam. They…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant announcement that echoes the aspirations of many Somali citizens, Chairman Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan of the National Electoral Commission revealed on Thursday an extension of the voter registration period for local council elections in the Banadir region. This decision, made after thoughtful consideration, responds to the urgent need for greater public participation in the electoral process. During a press conference held at the commission's headquarters in Mogadishu, Abdikarin articulated…