MOGADISHU, Somalia – The process of issuing voter registration cards has come to an end in the Benadir region as the capital city finalizes arrangements for upcoming local council elections set for December 25. The National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) has officially declared that the period for citizens to obtain their voting documents has concluded, completing all pre-election administrative procedures.
Simultaneously with the conclusion of registration, the intense political campaigns conducted by various associations competing for council positions have also been terminated. The electoral authority declared that Wednesday has been designated as a compulsory “silence day,” banning all further campaign activities and political assemblies. This measure aims to create a peaceful atmosphere for voters to make informed decisions before casting their ballots.
NIEBC Chairman Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan emphasized that no campaigning would be allowed on Wednesday. He further mentioned that the commission is ready to publish the official statistics concerning the total number of qualified voters who obtained their registration cards, a number that will establish the final voter list for the upcoming election.
The electoral body has invested substantial time and effort to facilitate this direct public voting exercise. The event is viewed as a significant historical achievement, as it marks the first instance in more than fifty years that the Somali population will directly elect their local representatives through a popular vote.
