Mogadisho (Dawan Africa) The National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) announced today that more than 800,000 people are expected to head to polling stations on October 30. The commission also confirmed the conclusion of a four-month voter registration exercise for the Banadir local council elections.
According to the NIEBC, the registration process, which began on April 15 in Shangani district, officially closed on August 15.
Although the target was to register 812,000 voters, nearly one million people enrolled, reflecting what the commission described as the determination of Mogadishu residents to make their voices heard.
The commission noted that residents of Banadir have shown clear readiness for the elections. “The high voter turnout is a strong indication of the Somali people’s commitment, particularly those in Mogadishu, to decide their political future,” the commission’s statement read.
Voter registration is also underway in other regions of the country, including Bakool, Bay, Lower Shabelle.
Currently, registration is ongoing in Afgooye, Baraawe, Baidoa, Xudur, Marka, and Laascaanood, enabling Somalis across multiple regions to prepare for electing their local councils. The commission has also deployed election equipment to Waajid and Walanweyn districts.
The October elections are set to be historic, as Mogadishu residents will directly elect their local council members and mayor for the first time in decades.
