Minister Al-Makhzoumi Pushes Greater Inclusion of Women, Disabled Groups in Somalia Elections

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Family and Human Rights Development minister Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi has called for stronger political inclusion of women and people with disabilities as the country advances local elections and broader democratic reforms.

In a statement issued during ongoing one-person, one-vote elections in South West State, Al-Makhzoumi urged electoral authorities, political organizations and community leaders to ensure marginalized groups are fully represented in leadership, governance and decision-making processes.

The minister praised residents of South West State for participating peacefully in the elections, describing the vote as an important step in Somalia’s democratic transition and state-building efforts.

Al-Makhzoumi also reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the 30% quota for women in elected institutions and stressed the importance of guaranteeing political representation for people with disabilities.

According to the ministry, women currently hold 16 of the 94 seats in the South West State assembly, accounting for about 17% of lawmakers — well below the government’s target threshold.

“The democratic process must create opportunities for all segments of society, particularly women and people with disabilities, to participate meaningfully in shaping the future of the country,” the minister said.

Her remarks come as Somalia’s federal government intensifies efforts to expand political participation and transition from the country’s longstanding clan-based indirect electoral model toward universal suffrage.

The federal administration has increasingly promoted inclusive governance and women’s political participation as central pillars of Somalia’s democratic reform agenda, with international partners repeatedly encouraging greater representation for women and marginalized communities in public institutions.

Al-Makhzoumi has in recent months been among the senior federal officials advocating stronger protections for vulnerable groups and broader participation in governance, civic engagement and national reconciliation initiatives.

The latest appeal also reflects growing efforts by the federal government to align Somalia’s evolving electoral system with international human rights and inclusion standards while strengthening the legitimacy of democratic institutions.