Somalia, 20 October 2025 — The National Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission (NIEBC) has strongly condemned reports indicating that political parties have been prevented from operating in several regions of the country, particularly in Hirshabelle, Galmudug, South West, and North Eastern Somalia.
The Chairperson of the Commission Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan described the reported actions as unacceptable, emphasizing that political parties have a constitutional right to operate freely across the entire country in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
“We will not accept, nor will we allow, any attempt to block political parties from opening offices in the regions. This is a red line that no one can cross,” the Chairperson Abdikarin Ahmed said, calling on the leaders of federal member states to facilitate the establishment and operation of political party offices in their territories.
The Chairperson emphasized that freedom of political parties is a cornerstone of democratic governance, noting that Somalia cannot claim to be a democratic nation if political organizations are denied the right to operate freely.
“Somalia cannot be a democratic state if political parties are not allowed to function openly. What is happening in Banadir should be replicated across all regions,” he added.
The Commission warned that if the reports of obstruction are verified, appropriate measures will be taken to protect the rights and freedoms of political parties, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a fair and inclusive democratic process throughout the country.