The National Electoral Commission has released the official list of political associations that have submitted candidates for the upcoming Banaadir Regional Local Council elections.
The list, which includes 20 political associations, confirms the groups that will participate in the vote after meeting the required registration and nomination criteria.
However, a notable development emerged as several of Somalia’s major political associations—led by some of the country’s most influential political figures—were absent from the list. Those missing include:
• The association of former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo
• The association of former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed
• The Wadajir Party led by Abdirahman Abdishakur
Their absence has sparked widespread political discussion, with observers questioning the reasons behind their non-participation and the potential implications for the upcoming election.
The announcement comes at a time when no political consensus has yet been reached on issues surrounding the planned direct elections in which citizens would vote directly for their representatives. Despite this unresolved matter, indications suggest that the Banaadir Local Council elections are likely to go ahead—even in the absence of a comprehensive agreement.
Political analysts note that the election could serve as an important test for implementing local governance structures in the capital, though concerns remain about political stability and trust among competing groups.
With uncertainties still looming, all eyes are now on the Banaadir elections, which many say could shape the broader trajectory of Somalia’s democratic process.
