President Mohamud Urges Elders to Back Universal Suffrage

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Federal Government of Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called on traditional leaders to support the introduction of universal suffrage, saying restoring citizens’ right to vote is central to the country’s progress.

Speaking at a state dinner hosted for elders from across the country at the presidential palace, Mohamud said Somalia must move toward a “one person, one vote” system after decades of indirect elections.

“We remain firmly committed to ensuring that the Somali people regain their constitutional right to elect leaders of their choice,” he said, linking incomplete past electoral processes to ongoing security challenges.

The president also briefed the elders on government efforts in security, institutional development, decentralisation and the fight against al Shabaab militants.

He praised traditional leaders for their role in peacebuilding, reconciliation and maintaining national unity, urging them to back democratic reforms.

Elders at the meeting welcomed the engagement, citing progress in security and governance while expressing support for efforts to expand public participation in elections.

Somalia has been working to transition to universal suffrage after decades of clan-based indirect voting, a shift seen as key to strengthening legitimacy and long-term stability.