Mogadishu – The Banadir Regional Administration and the Municipality of Mogadishu have convened a major electoral awareness conference under the theme Dadweynow Doorasho: “Dooro ama ha lagu Doorto” (Citizens, Vote or Be Voted For). The objective of the event was to educate the public on Somalia’s electoral history and enhance their understanding of direct elections (One Person, One Vote).

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Internal Security of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hon. Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail “Fartaag”, emphasized that the preparations undertaken by the Banadir administration and its citizens for direct elections will serve as a gateway for nationwide implementation of the One Person, One Vote system.

The Governor of Banadir and Mayor of Mogadishu, Hon. Mohamed Ahmed Amiir, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring that the residents of the capital participate in direct elections. He stressed that leadership should be determined by the people’s choice rather than appointment. Additionally, he noted that the process of designating voter registration and polling stations in Banadir has recently been finalized.

The event was attended by federal ministers, members of parliament, the Deputy Governor for Security and Politics of Banadir, the Secretary-General of Banadir Region, district commissioners, religious scholars, academics, people with special needs, youth, women, and various community representatives. All speakers underscored the significance of holding direct elections for the progress and democratic development of Somalia.