Mogadishu Local Elections Mark Somalia’s First One-Person, One-Vote Poll in 58 Years

Residents in Mogadishu voted in a historic local election on December 25, 2025. The vote marked Somalia’s first one-person, one-vote election since 1969. The polls took place under a full lockdown due to security fears. The federal government ran the vote across 16 districts despite strong criticism from Opposition groups.

The election matters because Somalia has long relied on clan-based political deals. This system shaped local councils and even national leaders. But, according to AFP and other reputable agencies, the new vote aims to shift the country toward a direct and more open system. It also comes after years of delays caused by conflict, political rifts, and security threats.

Mogadishu Election Draws Support and Resistance

The federal government organised the polls and said they follow a long-promised reform path. Up to 20 political parties took part. The National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission oversaw the process for the first time.

Opposition parties rejected the vote. They said the process was flawed and unfair. They also warned that it could weaken Somalia’s fragile federal balance. Some leaders claimed the government was using the election to gain more power ahead of the 2026 presidential deadline. Authorities denied the charge.

The capital registered more than 900,000 voters. There were 523 polling stations. Security forces increased patrols due to repeated attacks by the militant group al-Shabab. According to AFP, the city remained under strict lockdown to prevent disruptions.

What This Vote Means for Somalia’s Political Future

Analysts said the Mogadishu election was a major step. It was the first strong test of direct voting in decades. They said it showed that technical systems for modern elections can work. It also gave citizens a rare chance to choose their council representatives.

Experts noted that the vote could guide future elections in federal member states. They said this approach may slowly reshape Somali politics. But they also warned that political divisions remain wide. Key issues such as the capital’s constitutional status are still unresolved. The mayor of Mogadishu is still appointed, not elected, due to this ongoing dispute.

The move away from clan-based power-sharing could reshape national debates. Supporters see it as a path to stability and public trust. Critics fear it could deepen political cracks and weaken local agreements.

The Mogadishu election marks a turning point for Somalia. Many hope the one-person, one-vote system can support a more open future. But the road ahead remains tense as the main keyword “Mogadishu local elections” becomes the center of national focus.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What are Mogadishu local elections?

They are citywide polls where residents choose local council members. This is the first one-person, one-vote local election held in Mogadishu since 1969. It marks a major shift from clan-based political deals.

Q2: Why are these elections important?

They show Somalia’s attempt to return to direct voting. The elections also test whether national reforms can work in other regions. They are seen as a key step toward a more democratic system.

Q3: How many people registered to vote?

More than 900,000 voters registered across 523 polling stations. These figures were confirmed by Somalia’s electoral commission. It was one of the largest voter registrations in the capital.

Q4: Why did the Opposition reject the vote?

Opposition leaders said the process was biased. They claimed the government used the vote to boost its power. Authorities denied these claims.

Q5: Is the mayor of Mogadishu elected?

No. The mayor is still appointed. The capital’s constitutional status is unsettled and needs national agreement.

Trusted Sources: AFP, Reuters, AP