Somalia’s senior leaders, officials and independent observers have hailed the country’s local elections held on December 25, 2025, as a historic milestone signalling a new era of democracy.
After casting his vote in Mogadishu’s Warta Nabadda district, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud described the polls as a turning point, saying Somalia had opened a new chapter as a peaceful, democratic nation choosing its leadership through the ballot.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre echoed the sentiment, calling the elections a long-awaited achievement after nearly six decades without direct voting. He said Somalis were “writing history” in a peaceful, orderly and dignified manner, restoring citizens’ honour and right to freely elect their leaders. Other senior officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, said the vote marked a decisive step in reclaiming democratic rights and national ownership of governance.
Independent observers also reported a positive start to the process. Omar Faruk Osman, Secretary General of the National Union of Somali Journalists, said polling opened on time, media access was guaranteed and the atmosphere remained calm and inclusive.
Collectively, leaders and observers described the elections as a symbol of renewal and hope, underscoring Somalia’s determination to move forward under the will of its people.
