Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s Information Minister, Daud Aweis, announced on Monday that voter registration in the capital has officially closed with close to one million citizens enrolled, hailing the milestone as “a historic leap” in the country’s democratic path.
The announcement comes as Mogadishu prepares for local government elections scheduled for 30 October 2025, marking the first time in decades that residents of the city will directly choose their municipal representatives.
“This is not just about numbers; it is about a nation steadily reclaiming its democratic voice,” Aweis said while praising the determination of Mogadishu’s residents despite security challenges and logistical hurdles.
The registration exercise, which opened earlier this year, drew large crowds across the city’s 17 districts. Authorities say it reflects both a growing trust in electoral institutions and the public’s eagerness to participate in shaping local governance.
Observers note that the success of the registration process in Mogadishu will be seen as a test case for wider electoral reforms in Somalia, where clan-based power-sharing has long overshadowed direct voting.
Security remains the most pressing concern, with government forces and African Union peacekeepers maintaining a heavy presence at registration centers throughout the process. Officials say plans are being drawn up to ensure that polling stations are safe and accessible during election day.
Civil society groups have welcomed the outcome, describing it as a turning point for Somali democracy.
The October elections are expected to set the tone for Somalia’s broader political roadmap, including the much-anticipated 2026 national polls. For many in Mogadishu, the upcoming vote is more than a political exercise—it represents hope for stronger local leadership and greater public accountability.
