PM Barre Says Local Elections Mark ‘Historic Step’ Toward Full Democracy

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has said Somalia is entering a defining moment in its democratic journey as he chaired a review meeting on preparations for the upcoming local government elections.

Hamza said the elections mark a “historic step” in Somalia’s transition to a one-person, one-vote system, noting that the process will begin in the Benadir region before expanding nationwide.

He stressed that the shift to direct voting is central to the government’s DanQaran agenda and represents a long-awaited opportunity for citizens to choose their local leaders after decades of indirect political arrangements.

The Prime Minister praised the National Independent Electoral and Boundary Commission for completing essential preparations, saying their progress shows Somalia is capable of managing its own electoral processes with growing professionalism and stability.

Hamza underscored that successful local elections will strengthen public trust, deepen accountability, and lay the foundation for broader democratic reforms. He described the move as a “critical investment in Somalia’s future,” one that will give communities a direct voice in shaping local governance and development priorities.