Somalia’s President Mohamud vows to end clan-based voting, urging parliament to ensure universal suffrage ahead of 2026 elections.
Somalia Backs One-Person, One-Vote Elections
MOGADISHU, Sept. 29, 2025 — Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has ruled out a return to clan-based, indirect elections. He said the country’s political future depends on universal suffrage.
Somalia launched its nationwide voter registration drive in April,paving the way for its first one-person, one-vote elections since 1969.
Meanwhile, speaking at the opening of the 7th session of the 11th Parliament in Mogadishu, Mohamud cited the nationwide voter registration drive. He said it proves citizens are ready to vote directly.
“Those still dreaming of indirect elections should look to the millions already registered in Mogadishu,” Mohamud said. “This is the people speaking. They are ready, willing, and determined to vote.”
President Rejects Indirect Elections
For decades, Somalia used indirect elections under the 4.5 formula. Four major clans received equal representation. Minority clans shared a half-vote. Although the system offered stability, it sidelined ordinary citizens.
Mohamud warned that attempts to extend terms or revive clan-based voting would weaken Somalia’s democratic transition. Therefore, he urged parliament to speed up the constitutional review. In addition, he called for passing electoral laws before the parliamentary term ends in April 2026. This would make reforms irreversible.
Shift from Clan-Based Politics
In August 2024, Somalia’s cabinet approved a bill restoring universal suffrage. Citizens can now vote directly for lawmakers and the president. This replaces the old system where clan elders and lawmakers made decisions.
Analysts say the reform is a major step toward democracy. Furthermore, Somalia has long struggled with conflict and elite-driven politics.
Nationwide Voter Registration Underway
The voter registration campaign began in April 2025 in Mogadishu and later expanded nationwide. Participation has been strong. Nearly one million residents in the capital have registered for municipal elections on October 30, 2025.
Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan, chair of the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission, said the turnout is a “clear signal that the public is ready to vote.” In addition, authorities view it as a test of nationwide readiness for one-person, one-vote elections.
Call for Parliamentary Action
Mohamud stressed that parliament must finalize electoral laws and constitutional amendments soon.
“The voter registration is a message. It is the people speaking. They are ready, willing, and determined to vote,” he said. Therefore, legislative action is crucial to safeguard the transition.
The transition still faces several hurdles:
- Security Risks: Militant group al-Shabaab controls parts of southern Somalia. They threaten polling stations and government offices.
- Regional Tensions: Federal states, including Puntland, fear centralization and resist reforms.
- Institutional Weakness: Electoral bodies, courts, and local administrations remain underfunded. This raises concerns about fair elections.
- Logistical Challenges: Voter cards, transport, and polling site accessibility remain issues.
However, authorities are working to address these challenges before 2026.
International Implications
Somalia’s reforms are closely watched by international partners. Donors such as the United States, the European Union, and the United Nations are monitoring progress. Credible elections are seen as essential for stability. They also help attract investment.
The World Bank ranked Mogadishu Port as East Africa’s most efficient. As a result, improving governance and infrastructure could support the upcoming elections.
Looking Ahead to 2026 Elections
Somalia is preparing for its first nationwide direct elections in modern history. These elections aim to end decades of clan-based arrangements.
President Mohamud’s push for one-person, one-vote shows his commitment to democracy. Furthermore, the next 18 months are critical for addressing security, political, and logistical challenges.
“The voter registration is more than technical. It is the people speaking. It shows the faith of our nation in its own democracy,” he said.