Twenty Parties Clear Nomination Stage for Banadir’s First Direct Elections

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The National Independent Electoral Commission and Boundaries (NIEC) has announced the closure of candidate nominations for the upcoming Banadir regional council elections, confirming that 20 political organizations have submitted their lists.

The nomination period opened with just 12 organizations registering. Participation surged as the deadline neared, rising to 18 and finally reaching 20 by the time submissions closed, an indication, the Commission said, of growing political engagement in the capital ahead of its historic “One Person, One Vote” poll.

The NIEC published the full list of political groups cleared to compete, including: Ramaas, Towfiiq, Karama, Saab, Horumar & Midnimo Qaran, Muwaadiniinta Soomaaliyeed, Midnimada Shacabka, Qaranka ee Dimuquraadiga, Qiimo Qaran, Cadaaladda & Wadajirka, Dimuquraadiga Soomaaliyeed, Madalsan, Horyaal Qaran, Socod, Dowlad Wanaaga Soomaaliyeed, Cadaaladda & Midnimada Tiir, Soomaalinimo, Qaran Soor, Sincad, and Dadka Soomaaliyeed.

The Commission said all submissions were validated in accordance with the Provisional Constitution, the National Elections Law (Law No. 28/2024) and the laws governing political parties and associations. The vetting ensures that participating groups meet the legal standards required to nominate candidates for public office.

With nominations now closed, the NIEC will begin detailed verification of individual candidates before releasing a final certified list. Political organizations will then appoint and train polling agents who will monitor stations during voting.

The registration of 20 political organizations marks a decisive step toward Banadir’s upcoming local elections, bringing residents closer than ever to casting ballots under a full direct voting system for the first time.