Mogadishu, Somalia – The National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission of Somalia (NIEBC) has announced the reopening of several voter registration centers in Mogadishu, marking a renewed push to expand citizen participation in the country’s democratic process.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commission urged all eligible citizens who have not yet registered to take advantage of this fresh opportunity. It further emphasized that the exercise is not only for first-time registrants but also for supporters of recently certified political associations who are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Somalia’s evolving multiparty system.
The electoral body appealed to political parties to step up efforts in mobilizing their members and engaging the wider public. By encouraging grassroots involvement, officials hope to strengthen the legitimacy and inclusiveness of future electoral processes.
“The success of our democracy depends on active citizen participation. We call on political associations to take the lead in ensuring that every eligible Somali is registered and ready to vote,” the statement read.
The reopening of registration centers comes at a pivotal moment as Somalia continues to implement key political reforms aimed at broadening representation and fostering stability. Elections remain central to the country’s state-building agenda, and credible voter lists are considered a foundational step toward transparent and fair polls.
Observers note that effective voter mobilization in Mogadishu, the capital and most populous city, could significantly influence turnout in upcoming elections. The Commission has yet to confirm whether additional centers will be opened in other regions, but officials hinted that further expansions are under consideration.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring that Mogadishu residents who missed earlier registration rounds are not left behind, reinforcing the principle that every Somali voice matters in the country’s democratic journey.