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Hiiraan Online Today from Hiiraan Online: Somali Music advertisements Somali Democratic Alliance calls for delay of Banadir elections to ensure fairness and transparency FacebookFacebook messengerTwitterWhatsAppLinkedInTelegramEmail Wednesday November 5, 2025 UN Photo / Sabir Olad Electoral officials count votes during the electoral process to choose members of the Lower House of the Federal Parliament in Baidoa, Somalia in November 2016. Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali Democratic Alliance (SDA), a coalition of 23 political organizations, has urged President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to delay the Banadir Regional Council elections until December 30, 2025, citing technical challenges and the need to ensure fairness and transparency. In a statement released Wednesday, the SDA said the vote, initially planned for November, should be postponed to allow adequate time for political parties to prepare and for the National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) to finalize a clear timetable for the process. “It is essential to establish a fair and transparent electoral process that ensures equal opportunity for all political organizations, free from intimidation or restrictions on their activities in any district,” the alliance said. The SDA, whose members include former Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke and former parliamentary speakers Sharif Hassan Sheikh Adan and Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman, said the additional time would enable parties to complete candidate lists and allow the NIEC to verify supporters in line with democratic standards. “Political parties must be given sufficient time to prepare and submit their candidate lists for the various districts,” the SDA added. “The Commission should release a clear and official schedule to guarantee transparency and confidence among all stakeholders.” The alliance also criticized regional administrations accused of blocking political parties from opening offices, describing such actions as “contrary to the freedoms and transparency that underpin democracy.” It called on the NIEC to intervene and ensure political inclusivity across all regions. The SDA pledged its commitment to advancing Somalia’s democratic process and protecting the voting rights of Banadir residents. It encouraged citizens to register for voter cards and participate peacefully in the upcoming elections. “The Somali Democratic Alliance will continue to defend democracy and promote national dialogue,” the statement read. “We urge all citizens, especially in Banadir, to participate responsibly and ensure that the process reflects the will of the people.” The Banadir Regional Council elections are expected to serve as a key test of Somalia’s readiness for broader local governance reforms and the inclusiveness of its evolving democratic institutions. Opinion| Privacy Policy|Sports|Somali Music|Somali Map All Rights Reserved Copyright. © 1999-2025, www.hiiraan.com
