Banadir Elections: Galmudug President Applauds Citizens and Institutions

The President of Galmudug State, H.E. Ahmed Abdi Karie (Qoor Qoor), has congratulated residents of Mogadishu for their peaceful, orderly, and enthusiastic participation in the Benadir Regional Council elections, describing the vote as a historic milestone for Somalia’s democratic future.

In a statement issued from Dhusamareb on Thursday, President Qoor Qoor praised citizens of the capital for turning out in large numbers and exercising their democratic right responsibly during the local council elections held across the districts of the Benadir Region.

President Ahmed Abdi Karie commended the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) and Somalia’s national security agencies for fulfilling their duties with professionalism, noting that their coordination ensured the elections were conducted in a safe, calm, and well-organized environment.

He described the successful conduct of the vote as a historic achievement for the Somali nation, highlighting its significance after decades of indirect electoral systems.

The Galmudug leader also acknowledged President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, crediting him for the political will and sustained efforts that made it possible for Mogadishu residents to elect their local council representatives through direct voting for the first time in nearly 60 years.

Looking ahead, President Qoor Qoor urged the people of Galmudug State to prepare for upcoming elections, encouraging citizens to actively participate and exercise their constitutional right to vote in order to shape accountable and representative leadership.

President Qoor Qoor’s message adds to growing national recognition of the Benadir elections as a defining moment in Somalia’s democratic transition. As the country cautiously advances toward broader direct elections, the peaceful participation of Mogadishu’s residents stands as a powerful signal that democratic engagement is once again taking root.