New Mogadishu Mayor plans to hold first civic elections next year

From next year, residents of Mogadishu will, for the first time in over half a century, have the opportunity to directly elect their civic leaders.

Mohamed Ahmed Amir, the newly appointed Mayor of Mogadishu, made this historic announcement on Sunday during a meeting with district officials in his office.

No universal elections have been held in Mogadishu or most parts of Somalia since 1969. However, Somaliland—a breakaway region of Somalia —is the only region to have conducted popular votes, with its latest presidential election held last month. Puntland State, which remains part of Somalia, also recently held its first civic elections.

"The Mayor of Mogadishu met this morning with district officials and senior staff, sharing his vision and priorities for the city, starting with achieving a peaceful, clean, green city where residents receive basic services and enjoy the right to elect their leaders of choice," said a spokesperson from the Mayor's office in a statement to the media after the meeting.

The spokesperson added that Mayor Mohamed urged district officials to prepare for next year’s elections and to "serve the public with dignity and sincerity in implementing directives."

Upon his appointment by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on December 10, Mayor Mohamed was tasked with key development priorities, including enhancing Mogadishu’s infrastructure, delivering essential services, improving security, and preparing for inclusive civic elections.

Universal Elections

Details on how and when the civic elections will be conducted remain undisclosed. Somalia’s parliament is currently debating election laws, and the country presently lacks an operational electoral body.

Since his re-election in May 2022, President Hassan Sheikh has prioritised fighting Al-Shabaab and implementing universal elections.

His efforts to push for popular votes, including legislative changes earlier this year, have sparked controversy. While supported by many ordinary Somalis, the plans have sharply divided the country’s leadership.

Puntland and Jubaland States, two of Somalia’s five federal states, have openly opposed these initiatives, accusing the President of ulterior motives to remain in power through dubious elections and unconstitutional changes.

"A Dream Come True"

Ordinary Mogadishu residents have welcomed the announcement.

“It will be a dream come true for me to elect leaders of my choice because I have never voted in my life. I will be the first in line to cast my vote that day. Electing our leaders will ensure they are answerable to us, unlike the current appointees,” said Baarlin Abdi, a women’s rights activist in Mogadishu, speaking to Eastleigh Voice.

Political analysts suggest that if Mogadishu successfully holds popular civic elections, it could set a precedent for the rest of Somalia.

“Elections in Somalia have traditionally been indirect, where clan elders nominate lawmakers or appoint clan electoral delegates to elect lawmakers. If Mogadishu succeeds, it could pave the way for rolling out popular votes across the country,” said political analyst Abdi Ali to Eastleigh Voice.

Significance of Mogadishu Elections

Mogadishu, locally known as the Banadir region, comprises 22 districts and serves as Somalia’s capital. It is the largest and most advanced city in the country, with an estimated population exceeding two million.

Successfully holding civic elections in Mogadishu would be a landmark achievement, especially given the city’s turbulent history. Despite past violence, Mogadishu is currently experiencing its most peaceful period in years, offering hope for meaningful progress.