
Somalia is holding its first one-person, one-vote local election in Mogadishu since 1969, a significant shift from traditional clan-based power-sharing. Organized by the federal government, the election for local council members is contested by opposition parties who deem it flawed. Despite promises since 2016, insecurity and political rifts have delayed such polls. The election involves over 900,000 registered voters and 20 political parties, though the mayor's position remains appointed due to unresolved constitutional status.