Arab Parliament Applauds Mogadishu Local Elections as Historic Milestone for Somalia

 

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia has reached a remarkable political milestone with the organization of direct local elections in Mogadishu, a move that has been widely praised by the Arab Parliament. Observers say these elections mark a historic step forward in the country’s long journey toward democratic governance and political stability.

The Arab Parliament, in a statement issued on Thursday, lauded Somalia’s efforts to hold direct elections for the Benadir Regional Council. Mohammed bin Ahmed Al-Yamahi, Speaker of the Arab Parliament, described the event as “a major step in rebuilding state institutions and promoting democratic practices” in a nation that has faced decades of conflict and political instability. According to Al-Yamahi, no similar vote has been held in Somalia since 1969, making the Mogadishu elections a groundbreaking moment in Somali history.

The Arab Parliament emphasized that the elections could strengthen national unity and improve security, particularly in the capital. By allowing citizens to directly participate in electing their local representatives, Somalia takes a significant step toward enhancing public involvement in governance. Al-Yamahi urged political leaders to prioritize national interests above partisan divisions and to use dialogue and consensus to address political differences.

Somalia’s political landscape has historically been shaped by indirect elections, introduced after the collapse of Mohamed Siad Barre’s regime in 1991. Following decades of civil conflict and instability, indirect electoral systems became the norm, limiting the direct participation of Somali citizens in choosing their leaders. The Mogadishu vote is now seen as a test case for potentially rolling out direct elections across the country, including at the national level.

Analysts suggest that the success of these elections could pave the way for broader democratic reforms and stronger state institutions. By engaging citizens in decision-making processes, Somalia can build trust between the government and its people, a crucial factor in long-term stability and development. Moreover, peaceful and transparent elections could boost confidence among international partners and investors, further supporting the country’s reconstruction efforts.

The Arab Parliament reaffirmed its continued support for initiatives aimed at achieving peace, security, and development in Somalia, echoing the aspirations of the Somali people. With decades of conflict behind them, many Somalis view these elections as a hopeful sign of a more inclusive and participatory democracy, capable of addressing local challenges and fostering national cohesion.

As votes are counted and results begin to emerge, international observers and local stakeholders alike will closely monitor the implications of this historic event. The hope is that Somalia’s direct local elections will serve as a model for other regions and contribute to a more robust and transparent political system across the country.

The 2025 Mogadishu elections, therefore, not only represent a milestone for the city but also signify a turning point in Somalia’s democratic journey. They offer a rare opportunity for citizens to directly influence the future of their communities and set a precedent for the expansion of democratic practices nationwide.

With the Arab Parliament’s backing and growing domestic support, Somalia is taking meaningful steps toward a stable and democratic future, where citizens’ voices play a central role in shaping governance and policy-making.