Survey Raises Concerns Over Somalia’s Voter Registration Ahead of 2026 Elections

The study, conducted in Mogadishu and its 17 districts, found that over half of respondents have registered to vote and awareness of the process is generally high. But the report warns that trust is fragile, with many citizens doubting whether registration is fair or whether their personal data will be secure.

According to the Independent National Elections and Boundaries Commission (INEBC) chairman Abdikarim Ahmed Hassan, nearly one million people had registered by in late August when the exercise concluded in the capital. The Commission however reopened the exercise mid this month to give give the chance those who had not registered.

Almost a third of eligible voters have yet to register, with lack of information, logistical hurdles, and apathy cited as the main reasons. Social media has emerged as the dominant source of voter information, overshadowing traditional outlets like radio and community forums. While this reflects changing communication trends, it also increases the risk of misinformation and leaves those without internet access at a disadvantage.

The survey comes as Somalia faces deep political and security challenges. Jubaland and Puntland have rejected the new electoral law, accusing the federal government of acting unilaterally, while Al-Shabaab’s resurgence threatens registration centres in some regions.

Independence House cautions that unless issues of trust, transparency, and security are addressed, Somalia’s move toward universal suffrage could be compromised.

If successful, the 2026 elections would mark the country’s first direct vote since 1969, a milestone in its democratic journey. But for many Somalis, confidence in voter registration remains the deciding factor.