Somalia Registers 14 New Political Parties in Step Toward One-Person, One-Vote Elections

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has registered 14 new political parties, including those led by prominent former leaders, in a move hailed as a major step toward long-delayed “one-person, one-vote” elections.

Former Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmake and ex-parliament speakers Sharif Hassan Sheikh Adan and Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman were among political veterans granted certificates of registration by the National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC).

The move signals growing momentum toward a multi-party system, marking a shift from Somalia’s clan-based power-sharing model. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has made electoral reform a priority, and the participation of seasoned politicians adds weight to the transition.

The NIEC plans to begin a nationwide voter registration drive, paving the way for the new parties and 43 previously registered groups to campaign across the country.

The involvement of former government and opposition figures could bolster confidence in the process, while opening space for broader political competition after decades of instability.