Somali civil society organizations have urged the federal and regional authorities to hold timely and transparent elections in the Federal Member States, describing the move as essential for strengthening democracy, stability, and inclusive governance.
MOGADISHU — A coalition of Somali civil society organizations has called for the immediate organization of regional state elections across the country, especially in areas where mandates have expired or political disputes have delayed the process.
In a joint statement issued in Mogadishu, groups including the Civil Society Forum, the National Women’s Association, and the Youth Council of Somalia emphasized that prolonged delays in regional elections undermine public trust and weaken the country’s democratic institutions.
The organizations reminded leaders that Article 22 and Article 47 of the Provisional Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia (2012) guarantee citizens’ right to political participation and outline the framework for electoral systems and political parties.
Spokesperson Khadra Mohamed said civil society actors are ready to support efforts toward credible polls, including voter awareness campaigns and election observation. “Somalis have the right to choose their leaders through a fair and transparent process. It is time to restore confidence in governance by respecting the constitutional mandate of elections,” she said.
The statement also urged the Federal Government of Somalia and Federal Member States to convene a national dialogue to agree on an election timeline and ensure the independence of the National Independent Electoral Commission, as stipulated in Article 111G of the Constitution.
Observers note that the call comes amid growing tension over the legitimacy of several regional administrations and ongoing debates about the federal electoral model. Civil society groups argue that free and fair regional elections are vital to the country’s broader federal stability and state-building process.
References:
Provisional Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia (2012): Articles 22, 47, 111G.
Somali Civil Society Forum, Joint Statement (2025).
