In a landmark moment for Somali democracy, early indicators from the Banadir region’s local council elections suggest a resounding victory for the Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP). Led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the ruling organization appears to have captured the momentum of the December 25, 2025, polls—the first direct, “one-person, one-vote” election held in the capital in over five decades.
The vote serves as a critical litmus test for the national presidential ballot scheduled for 2026. With counting concluding overnight, insiders and FTL experts analyses indicate that the JSP holds a commanding lead across Mogadishu’s 16 districts.
A Test of Universal Suffrage
The party’s strong performance is largely credited to its association with the current administration’s push for universal suffrage. President Mohamud, who personally campaigned for peaceful participation, characterized the process as a “milestone” in the nation’s recovery from decades of civil unrest.
However, the path to the polls was marked by political friction. High-profile figures, including former Presidents and Prime Ministers, abstained from the process, alleging the framework was designed to favor the incumbent administration. While JSP led the pack, a fierce battle for second place emerged between the Ramaas, Towfiiq, and Karaama, all of whom focused their platforms on infrastructure and anti-corruption.
Security and International Recognition
The African Union Commission has extended its congratulations to Somalia for the successful conduct of the polls. Over 500,000 voters cast their ballots under heavy security, according to latest estimates. Despite persistent threats from militant groups, no major security breaches were reported during the exercise.
| Key Election Statistics | Details |
| Total Voters | Over 500,000 |
| Districts Contested | 16 (Benadir Region) |
| Participating Political Associations | 12 – 20 |
| Security Status | Stable; no major incidents |
Looking Toward 2026
As the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) finalizes the tallies, the focus shifts to the 2026 national elections, if the anticipated term extension not materialize. A sweep by the JSP would likely solidify President Mohamud’s mandate, whereas the performance of the smaller organizations will determine if a unified opposition can form in the coming year.
Ultimately, the peaceful conclusion of this local vote signals a fragile but persistent move toward long-term democratic stability in Somalia.
